By Leshi Adebayo
Ndubuisi Okwumabua, a Canadian-born singer has relocated to his native place, Isele-Ukwu village in Delta State, to gain more recognition for his music career.
The singer and producer, popularly called Ndu, decided to leave Winnipeg’s Forte Rouge in Canada, for Nigeria.
Okwumabua, giving his reasons for his decision, said a person can’t fully own anything in Canada as the property in question can be taken away at any time. He claimed that he feels at home and his dream is coming to pass.
While admitting the differences between living in Nigeria and Canada, he said many Nigerians are rushing to Canada for greener pastures but it is not as easy as that.
Ndu noted that Nigeria may not be at par with Canada in terms of accessible amenities but in spiritual terms, Nigeria is stronger.
He claimed to have written and produced a hundreds of songs for other artistes, background songs for movies and himself during the pandemic which has given hope to his music career.
The singer said he hopes to do different kinds of independent mix with Afro-beats like dancehall, reflection and car-listening music.
On why he felt Nigeria is a better place to accomplish his music dreams, Ndu said, “Artistes need genuine support in the beginning but there is not a lot of support for artistes like us who are attempting to break the manufactured mainstream mould.”
He noted that there was a lot of racism and ethnicity in Winnipeg where he lived in Canada. The place, he said, was one of the most racist cities in Canada according to Maclean’s magazine.
The musician said Nigeria is not perfect but acceptance is sure, adding that: “If you work hard and stay focused, you can own a few things.”
He claimed that nothing is guaranteed in Canada as non-payment of taxes can mean a person’s life work taken away which doesn’t happen in Nigeria.
“Life is good in Nigeria, not perfect but good. I am creating my music the way I want to. I would rather be free and be happy with myself to live longer,” he said.
