Renowned Nigerian music producer and singer, Cobhams Asuquo, has spoken openly about living with blindness and how it has shaped both his personal life and professional journey.

In a recent interview with Hip TV, the multi-talented artist gave a heartfelt message about embracing one’s reality, especially for those living with disabilities.

‘I work five times harder’

Cobhams, known for hit songs like “One Hit,” did not shy away from discussing the challenges he faces daily. He admitted that being blind has made him push himself far beyond the average.

“My awareness of myself as a blind person makes me work five times as hard [as others],” he said. “There’s a stereotype around blind people. The assumption is often that you are not capable. So, I work hard to prove that I can do a lot of things.”

He explained that people with disabilities are often underestimated. And for him, that has become a source of motivation rather than discouragement.

“It’s important to show that being blind doesn’t stop you from achieving great things,” he added.

Embracing reality without shame

Cobhams urged others living with disabilities not to hide from their reality. Instead, he advised them to face it directly and use it as a source of strength.

“It’s okay to be blind,” he said. “We live in a world that’s become very sensitive, and that’s fine. But it’s also important to be honest with ourselves. Don’t hide behind fancy names. Call it what it is and deal with it.”

According to the singer, facing the truth about your situation is not about giving up, but about starting from a place of truth. This, he believes, builds stronger individuals.

“If you’re always avoiding the truth, you live in denial,” he said. “That doesn’t help. Your strength grows when you accept your situation and rise above it.”

“I am not visually impaired. I am blind.”

Cobhams made it clear that he does not see himself as simply “visually impaired”, a term he feels downplays the extent of his condition.

“Sometimes, we say impaired, and I think impaired is fine. It means weakness, not a total absence. But I’m not impaired, I’m completely blind. I can’t see anything. And that’s alright.”

He explained that accepting the full truth of his condition allows him to live freely. He even finds humour in it at times, which helps him stay grounded.

“I’m okay with it. There’s some dark humour around it sometimes, and I’m good with that. That is who I am. And I embrace it.”

Living a Full Life, Regardless

Despite being blind, Cobhams has built an outstanding career in Nigeria’s music industry. He has produced and written music for some of the country’s top artists. His work has earned him national and international respect.

Looking back, he sees his blindness not as a limitation but as something that adds meaning to his story.

“It makes it even more special that I’ve lived the life I’ve lived and done the things I’ve done,” he said.

A message of hope

Cobhams’s story is a powerful reminder that disability is not inability. His message to others is simple: know yourself, be honest about your challenges, and use them to build your strength.

He did not ask for sympathy. Instead, he called for acceptance, truth, and hard work.

“Not everybody will agree with me, and that’s okay,” he said. “But I believe in facing the truth and working from there.”

Through his words and achievements, Cobhams Asuquo continues to inspire people across Nigeria and beyond. His honesty, courage, and resilience stand as a beacon of hope for many facing similar challenges.