Nigerian artists were conspicuously absent as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, shared his all-time top 10 rap songs, sparking widespread reactions.
Tuggar made the revelation during an interview with Channels TV, where he addressed Nigeria’s refusal to accept deported Venezuelans from the United States, many of whom are reportedly prisoners. Citing Nigeria’s massive population of over 230 million and its own pressing internal issues, Tuggar used a famous rap lyric by Flavor Flav of Public Enemy to emphasize his stance:
“Flavor Flav has problems of his own / I can’t do nothing for you, man.”
Drawing a humorous parallel, the minister remarked:
“We have enough problems of our own. We cannot accept Venezuelan deportees. You will be the same people who would criticize us if we do.”
The unexpected rap reference caught the attention of Nigerian author Lola Shoneyin, who playfully urged the minister to release his top 10 rap songs by the end of the year. Tuggar, however, didn’t wait and instead shared his all-time favorites, all featuring iconic American rappers—leaving Nigerian artists completely off the list.
Minister Yusuf Tuggar speaking during an interview, with reactions surrounding his rap playlist that excludes any Nigerian artist.
Here’s Tuggar’s full rap playlist:
1. My Mind is Playing Tricks on Me – Ghetto Boys (1991)
2. Paid in Full – Eric B & Rakim (1987)
3. Fight the Power – Public Enemy (1990)
4. It’s a Shame – Monie Luv (1990)
5. The Story of OJ – Jay Z (2017)
6. Get Your Freak On – Missy Elliot (2001)
7. The Crown – Gary Byrd & the GB Experience (1984)
8. It Takes Two – Rob Base (1988)
9. Nuthin but a G Thing – Snoop & Dre (1992)
10. Do For Luv – Tupac (1998)
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While some applauded the minister for his taste in music, many Nigerians expressed disappointment that no Nigerian artist—despite the country’s growing rap scene—was featured. Critics argue that this omission overlooks the global strides made by Nigerian rappers and the richness of the country’s hip-hop culture.
Minister Yusuf Tuggar’s top 10 rap playlist sparks debate as no Nigerian artist makes the list, raising questions about local artist recognition.
