Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr has opened up about how Nigeria’s unreliable power supply shaped her childhood, highlighting the profound impact of electricity shortages on her education, family livelihood, and personal growth. Speaking at the Global Citizen NOW event in New York, the award-winning artist shared heartfelt reflections on how the absence of stable electricity influenced her formative years. She emphasized that every Nigerian child has faced similar challenges, underscoring the widespread nature of the issue across the country.
Ayra Starr recalled helping her grandmother sell tomatoes and peppers in the market, a task made urgent by the lack of refrigeration due to power outages. “My grandma used to sell tomatoes and pepper and I used to assist her. We had to sell it quickly because we didn’t have electricity to store them,” she said. The constant need to adapt to these conditions, she noted, built her resilience and taught her to find solutions in difficult circumstances. “The harsh experience made me who I am today. Because I had to find ways to do what I had to do without the comfort of electricity,” she added.
She also spoke about the struggles she faced during her school years, particularly in extreme heat without fans or air conditioning. “Growing up, having electricity would have made a big difference. If I came back from school and I had AC or even a fan in the heat while doing my assignments, that would have made a big difference,” she explained. The absence of basic amenities like lighting and cooling systems made studying more challenging and affected her overall learning experience.
Ayra Starr used her platform to call on African leaders to prioritize electricity access across the continent. She stressed that every child deserves the opportunity to grow and develop in environments that support education, health, and well-being. Her remarks resonated with the global audience at the event, drawing attention to the urgent need for infrastructure development in Nigeria and other African nations.
By sharing her personal story, Ayra Starr not only highlighted a national issue but also amplified the voices of millions of children who continue to face similar hardships. Her message serves as a powerful reminder that reliable electricity is not just a convenience, but a fundamental need for progress and equality. As Nigeria continues to grapple with energy challenges, her words may inspire renewed efforts toward sustainable solutions that benefit future generations.
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