Popular Nigerian disc jockey and producer Imohiosen Patrick, known as DJ Neptune, expressed deep concern about what he described as a disturbing trend in the country’s music industry.
He said many veterans were being pushed aside once they reached certain career milestones, even after years of contributing to the growth of Nigerian music.
Speaking in a recent interview with Hip TV, DJ Neptune described the issue as a structural problem that had affected several creatives.
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He explained that Nigeria’s entertainment space often shifted attention away from older industry figures, regardless of their experience, past achievements, or ongoing value.
According to him, this practice contrasted sharply with what happened in Western music industries, where older performers continued to thrive alongside younger acts.
In his view, veterans abroad maintained strong fan bases and stayed relevant because the system allowed them equal visibility and respect.
He said, “In Nigeria, once you reach a certain level, they push you aside like, ‘Oya, go to that corner, we’re done with you.’ It’s a structural problem. Abroad, the OGs are still as relevant as the newbies. We need to address the structural issues.”
His comments drew attention to a longstanding conversation about ageism, relevance, and the pressure on Nigerian musicians to continually reinvent themselves.
DJ Neptune noted that the problem did not lie with the artists themselves but with the structures guiding the industry.
He argued that with better systems in place, Nigerian veterans could contribute even more through mentorship, collaboration, and long-term influence.
He also pointed out that the industry owed its modern success to many of these pioneers who shaped the sound, style, and business culture of contemporary Afrobeats.
When asked how he personally maintained relevance over the years, DJ Neptune explained that the key was reinvention.
He said he recognised early in his career that the industry changed quickly, so he always prepared himself to adapt.
He said, “Although I didn’t plan to do this all my life, when it’s time to take a bow, I will. But what I have done over the years is that I know when it’s time to reinvent. That’s life. Things are changing, so you need to move with the time.”
The disc jockey added that staying updated required effort and openness. He stressed that he remained curious, followed emerging trends, and constantly refreshed his sound.
This strategy, he said, helped him stay connected to younger listeners while still satisfying older fans who had followed him for years.
DJ Neptune’s remarks underlined his belief that the Nigerian music industry must evolve in ways that honoured both its history and its future.
He maintained that veterans had much to offer and that the system needed to create opportunities that allowed them to stay active and appreciated.
For him, relevance was not just about fame but about adapting, learning, and pushing forward. And as long as he remained in the industry, he said he would continue to reinvent himself until the day he chose to step aside on his own terms.
