In a recent interview, Eedris Abdulkareem, a veteran musician, asserts that he played a pivotal role in catalyzing the international recognition of Nigerian artists such as Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid. Abdulkareem attributes this to his 2004 rebellion against concert promoters mistreating Nigerian artists, a movement during which he notably clashed with American rapper 50Cent and his G-Unit associates in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the impact of his revolt on his own career, Abdulkareem states, "It was a beautiful sacrifice that gave birth to Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and everybody today." He emphasizes that the struggle he led had a profound effect on the Nigerian music industry, shaping it into the global force it is today.
Addressing the criticism from some contemporary artists, particularly Burna Boy who claimed nobody helped him in Nigeria, Abdulkareem dismisses such sentiments as "stupid talk." He firmly believes that the revolution he initiated paved the way for the current generation of stars. Abdulkareem contends, "I have opened the road for them. It’s their responsibility to appreciate the fight. And if they don’t, I don’t give a dime."