In a recent interview, renowned American rapper and fashion mogul Kanye West made headlines with his bold statement praising Nigerians for their intelligence. West, known for his candid and often controversial remarks, described Nigerians as “super smart” while discussing his relationships with fellow artists and influencers.
The comments came as Kanye reflected on his interactions with Travis Scott, Drake, and the late fashion visionary Virgil Abloh. In a viral statement, West mistakenly referred to Abloh as Nigerian, despite Abloh’s Ghanaian heritage. Nevertheless, his praise for Nigerians has sparked widespread discussion and admiration.
“I love Trav, Virgil [Abloh], and Drake. Drake [is] the realest of those three. Though he [is] not fake cool, he’s just talented AF. And yes, it’s fck Virgil and any of these other nggas that worked for me, then used me, then went against me. I love Virgil, and he used that very love to beat. Nigerians are super smart,” West stated.
Virgil Abloh, the mastermind behind the Off-White brand and head of Louis Vuitton’s menswear, was an influential figure in the fashion industry. Although Abloh was born to Ghanaian immigrant parents, Kanye’s acknowledgment of Nigerian intelligence speaks to the broader recognition of African brilliance and talent.
Nigerians have made significant contributions to various fields, including music, fashion, technology, and academia. Kanye West’s comments highlight the importance of celebrating African achievements and the exceptional talent that the continent continues to produce.
Social media users have shared their thoughts on Kanye’s praise for Nigerians:
- @NigerianPride: “Kanye is right! Nigerians are making waves globally, and it’s great to see our brilliance recognized.”
- @AfricanGiant: “Love or hate him, Kanye always speaks his mind. Glad he appreciates African talent!”
- @FashionForward: “Virgil Abloh may be Ghanaian, but Kanye’s point still stands. Africans are taking over the fashion world!”
As conversations around African talent continue to grow, Kanye West’s comments serve as a reminder of the incredible potential and accomplishments of Nigerians and Africans worldwide. Embracing and celebrating this brilliance is essential for fostering a global community that values diversity and innovation.
