Controversial street-hop artist Portable has stirred fresh debate after calling on leading Nigerian musicians to make way for emerging talents.
He made the remarks during a livestream conversation, where he spoke about generational shifts in the music industry.
Portable pushes ‘make way’ argument
Speaking in Pidgin, Portable argued that every wave of success in the industry is built on previous stars stepping aside.
He suggested that established artists should create room for younger acts to grow and thrive.
“Before people dey, people don dey o,” he said, stressing that no generation remains dominant forever.
References to past music eras
The singer pointed to earlier industry figures such as D’banj, Don Jazzy, Flavour, and KCee, noting that their era paved the way for the current crop of stars.
According to him, artists like Wizkid, Davido, Olamide, and Burna Boy benefitted from that transition.
He also cited Timaya as an example of someone who allowed space for others to rise.
Warning against blocking new talents
Portable warned that refusing to step aside could lead to established acts being forced out by the next wave.
“Make them leave road for us,” he said, adding that new artists will eventually push through if opportunities are blocked.
His comments have since triggered mixed reactions online, with some agreeing with his stance while others argue that longevity in music is earned, not handed over.
“The older generation like D’banj, Timaya, Don Jazzy and Flavour paved the way for Wizkid, Davido and Olamide to rise. But today, Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy and Olamide don’t want people like us to surpass them”
— Portable 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/6FyxR2Z7pd
— SKB (@seyikanbai) May 5, 2026