Nigerian singer Inetimi Alfred Odom, popularly known as Timaya, has opened up about the tough economic challenges people are facing globally, highlighting how much more severe the situation is in Nigeria. In a recent interview with Channels Television, the “Plantain Boy” crooner expressed his concern for the struggles of ordinary people, emphasizing how deeply he feels the pinch as well.
“Things are really tough everywhere, but it’s worse here in Nigeria,” Timaya noted. “If people aren’t happy, I can’t be happy either. I support many people and cover expenses, so I understand what everyone’s going through. I’m feeling the pressure too.”
Timaya revealed that his personal finances, including salaries for his staff and support for his family, have been hit hard due to the rising cost of living in Nigeria.
“You can’t expect things to be normal when everything is this expensive. Even politicians are feeling the heat, not to mention regular people like me. The only way to survive in this economy is if you’re earning in foreign currency. If you can convert dollars to naira, then you’re in a better position to cope. But if you’re spending in naira and earning in naira, you’re in serious trouble.”
He also pointed out that while things are tough worldwide, Nigeria stands out for being even more challenging. “It’s difficult everywhere right now, even in America. But the difference is, they earn in dollars and spend in dollars. Here, we’re dealing with the worst of it.”
Impact on the Entertainment Industry
Timaya also addressed how the economic downturn is affecting the Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly the rising costs of promoting music.
“Nowadays, promoting music is incredibly expensive. Back in the day, we didn’t worry too much about music video costs. Even when we did, we could shoot a video for N1.5 million. Now, just one video can cost N50 to N100 million, and that’s before you even start promoting it. This is why artists have increased their booking fees—they have to cover these rising costs somehow.”
With the current economic climate taking its toll, Timaya’s reflections offer a glimpse into the financial pressures facing not only the average Nigerian but also celebrities and entertainers trying to stay afloat amidst rising costs.
