Senegalese-American singer Akon has shared a vision of a Nigeria that could have changed the global economic landscape if it kept full control of its oil wealth.
Naijaonpoint reports that the Grammy-nominated artiste imagined how the country might have looked today if it had retained 100% of its oil revenues since independence in 1960, instead of sharing profits with foreign oil companies.
In this alternate scenario, he said Lagos would have become the world’s financial center, surpassing cities like London and New York.
In an Instagram post, Akon suggested that Nigerian universities could have become global leaders in innovation, producing future tech giants, while Nollywood might have taken the lead in global entertainment rather than merely competing with Hollywood.
He also pictured a reversal of migration patterns, where Europeans would move to Africa seeking job opportunities, Nigeria’s financial and educational influence would attract the brightest minds worldwide, and the value of its passport could surpass that of the United States.
Akon concluded that it is still possible for Nigeria to regain control over its resources and shape its future, pointing to the potential for the country to redefine its role on the global stage.
He wrote: “What if Nigeria had kept 100% of its oil money since 1960 instead of letting Shell and Exxon take it? We’re talking about two trillion dollars that could have stayed in African hands. Lagos would be the world’s financial capital today, not London or New York. Nigerian universities would lead global innovation, producing the next generation of tech giants. Nollywood wouldn’t just compete with Hollywood, it would completely dominate global entertainment.
“The ripple effects would be even more dramatic. London’s banking district would be empty as major firms relocate to Abuja. Nigerian passports would be more valuable than American ones. Europeans would be crossing the Mediterranean in search of work opportunities in Africa.
“The global power structure would flip entirely. Instead of brain drain, Nigeria would attract the world’s brightest minds. One decision in 1960 could have changed everything. Africa controlling its own resources would have reshaped the entire world order.
“The possibilities are endless but it’s never too late.”
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]