Speaking on the Hits Don’t Lie podcast, Konga suggested that singer Davido could have used his N200 million birthday donation to assist struggling industry veterans instead of giving exclusively to orphanages. According to Konga, such an initiative could have rejuvenated the careers of legends like Baba Fryo and Daddy Showkey, who he said are being forced into menial jobs abroad due to insufficient support.
“The present crop of Nigerian artists need to humble themselves,” Konga said. “Nobody is dragging their money with them. But they have used peer pressure to chase a lot of Nigerian music legends into doing menial jobs abroad. If I were part of Davido’s management, I would have said – ‘Davido, carry this money, go and give it to all these legends… bring Baba Fryo back, bring Daddy Showkey. Give Daddy Showkey, Baba Fryo and others N5 million each.’”
Konga highlighted the international success of earlier Nigerian artists such as Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade, and Majek Fashek, stressing that contemporary stars are building on foundations laid decades ago. “Our legends have been touring the world for years. Just because their achievements were not documented back then does not mean they did not do anything,” he added, drawing attention to a perceived lack of recognition for the pioneers of Nigerian music.
He further criticized the current industry narrative where young artists claim international dominance, pointing out that veterans had long paved the way. “You guys are only taking it forward from where we stopped,” he said, urging more humility and action in supporting those who shaped the industry.
Konga’s remarks have reignited conversations around generational responsibility, respect, and the preservation of Nigeria’s musical heritage.