YolyBoy raises alarm over decline of Northern entertainment talents

Prince Eze Ihedigbo

In a region rich with culture, rhythm, and untapped creative energy, a bold voice has emerged with a message that cuts deep: unity is the missing link in Northern Nigeria’s entertainment growth.

That voice belongs to Adamawa-born singer, rapper, songwriter, and sound engineer, Aaron Anthony YolyBoy, popularly known as BigManYoly, who recently shared his thoughts during a candid conversation with media representative Abdullahi Sani.

What started as a routine discussion quickly evolved into a powerful reflection on the past, present, and future of the entertainment industry in Adamawa State and the wider Northern region.

YolyBoy did not shy away from confronting what he described as a troubling pattern, the rise and fall of talented individuals who once showed promise but failed to build lasting legacies.

According to him, the Northern entertainment scene has never lacked talent. Instead, its biggest challenges have been internal, selfishness, lack of vision, poor collaboration, and weak structural support.

He noted that many artists who once stood on the brink of greatness gradually faded into obscurity because they failed to invest in others or build sustainable platforms.

“Many stars disappeared because they didn’t build bridges when they had the chance,” he said, highlighting a truth that resonates across creative communities in the North.

From Yola to Mubi, Jimeta to Numan, YolyBoy described Adamawa as a hub of raw talent, filled with musicians, producers, dancers, filmmakers, and digital creators eager to break through.
However, he emphasized that talent alone is not enough to guarantee success.

Without mentorship, proper organization, funding, and industry structure, many creatives struggle to move beyond local recognition.

He stressed that what the region needs now is not just the discovery of talent, but deliberate nurturing and strategic development.

YolyBoy acknowledged growing efforts by the Adamawa State Government under Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri to promote the creative industry through youth-focused initiatives, cultural events, and entertainment programs.

He described these efforts as a positive step toward recognizing entertainment as a viable driver of economic growth and youth empowerment.

However, he warned that government intervention alone cannot transform the industry.

According to him, creatives must match this support with professionalism, discipline, and a united front that inspires further investment.

At the heart of YolyBoy’s message is a simple but powerful call to unity.
He reminded stakeholders that thriving entertainment hubs like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja did not achieve global recognition overnight.

Their success, he said, was built on collaboration, shared vision, and collective effort.

He warned that continued division among Northern creatives would only delay progress, while unity could unlock unprecedented opportunities.

“If we come together, support each other, and build platforms collectively, the story will change,” he stated.

Beyond unity, YolyBoy challenged creatives to develop themselves beyond raw talent.

He emphasized the importance of discipline, consistency, and business knowledge, urging artists to understand the industry as both an art and a profession.

According to him, success comes to those who are prepared — not just talented.

Rather than merely speaking, YolyBoy says he is actively contributing to the growth of the industry.

Through investments in music, film, and media, he is working to create opportunities for emerging talents.

His projects include recording live performances of notable gospel artists like Mercy Chinwo and Ebuka Songs, as well as promoting Northern creatives through his platform, “Let’s Talk Life With YolyBoy.”

He believes every established creative has a responsibility to uplift others and strengthen the ecosystem.

“I believe the story will change. It is already changing. What we need now is intentional commitment and sacrifice,” he said.

YolyBoy concluded with a heartfelt message to young creatives across Northern Nigeria.

He urged them to learn from past mistakes and embrace values that will sustain the industry, such as unity, collaboration, and long-term vision.

He advised them to choose legacy over fleeting fame and partnership over rivalry.

The significance of YolyBoy’s message goes beyond entertainment.

The creative industry plays a critical role in job creation, cultural preservation, and youth engagement. It also serves as a powerful tool for storytelling and global representation.

For Northern Nigeria, a united entertainment sector could become a catalyst for economic growth and social transformation.

YolyBoy’s call is not one of criticism, but of correction, a wake-up call to a region brimming with potential.

His message is clear: talent without unity is ineffective, but when combined with collaboration and purpose, it becomes a force capable of reshaping narratives.
Adamawa has the talent.

Northern Nigeria has the stories.
What remains is the will to work together, and when that happens, the world will not only watch, it will listen.