Senegalese-American singer and entrepreneur Akon has sparked debate on social media after claiming that Nigeria could have become the world’s leading economic power if it had retained full control of its oil resources since independence in 1960.
In a post shared on his official Instagram page, Akon imagined an alternative history in which Nigeria kept 100 percent of its oil profits rather than allowing foreign companies like Shell and ExxonMobil to dominate its energy sector.
“What if Nigeria had kept 100 percent 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.”
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The music star, known for his strong advocacy for African development and self-sufficiency, argued that the country’s economic and social landscape would have been drastically different if its natural resources had remained under full local control.
According to him, Nigeria’s oil wealth could have transformed Lagos into “the world’s financial capital,” surpassing London and New York in global influence.
“Lagos would be the world’s financial capital today, not London or New York, Nigerian universities would lead global innovation, churning out the next generation of tech giants. Nollywood wouldn’t just compete with Hollywood, it would completely dominate global entertainment.” He posted.
Akon further suggested that the ripple effects of such economic independence would have reshaped the global power structure, placing Africa at the centre of world influence.
“London’s banking district would be empty as every major firm relocates to Abuja, “Nigerian passports would be more valuable than American ones. Europeans would be crossing the Mediterranean seeking work opportunities in Africa.”
He concluded by reflecting on how one major decision in history could have shifted the balance of global power.
“The global power structure would flip completely upside down, “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 changes the entire world order.”
Akon’s post has since generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians and Africans echoing his sentiment about resource control and post-colonial exploitation. Others described his reflection as a wake-up call for African leaders to prioritise local ownership and development of natural resources.
The Lonely crooner, who has invested heavily in energy and technology projects across Africa, including his ambitious Akon City project in Senegal, has long been vocal about Africa’s potential to achieve global prominence if its resources are harnessed and managed internally.
