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Zlatan Laments Nigeria’s Economic Hardship, Says, “We Are Used to Suffering and Smiling”
Nigerian rapper Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, popularly known as Zlatan, has expressed deep frustration over the country’s worsening economic situation, accusing the government of neglecting the struggles of ordinary citizens.
Speaking during an interview with UK-based media personality Madame Joyce, the Zanku (Leg Work) hitmaker lamented that many Nigerians have become desensitized to hardship due to years of governmental inaction.
“We are used to it — suffering and smiling — that’s how it has always been, and the government isn’t doing anything about it,” Zlatan said, describing the situation as both painful and normalized.
His remarks came in response to a lighthearted observation by British rapper Dave, who pointed out the stark contrast between Nigerians spending lavishly in clubs and the widespread poverty visible across the country.
Zlatan acknowledged the growing inequality in Nigerian society, where a small minority lives in luxury while millions struggle to survive daily. However, he also noted that some individuals have become overly reliant on handouts instead of seeking opportunities to improve their circumstances.
The rapper urged Nigerians to embrace hard work, resilience, and collective accountability, emphasising that demanding good governance must go hand in hand with personal responsibility.
While expressing disappointment at the government’s failure to deliver meaningful economic reforms, Zlatan maintained that rebuilding Nigeria’s dignity and stability will require effort from both leaders and citizens alike.
“The government will not do anything about it…”
Zlatan speaks about the begging culture on the Island in Lagos. pic.twitter.com/T5t1RDCv50
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) November 6, 2025