Persistent infrastructure challenges, particularly unreliable electricity, are taking a toll on Nigeria’s creative sector, according to ace music producer and executive Sarz.
Speaking during a recent episode of the Afropolitan podcast, the award-winning producer — born Osabuohien Osaretin — offered a candid assessment of how epileptic power supply continues to hinder productivity and stifle creative potential in the country.
Sarz, 36, revealed that despite being born and raised in Nigeria, he has never experienced uninterrupted electricity for 24 hours — a reality he says has repeatedly disrupted his creative process.
“I was born and raised in this country and I have never experienced electricity for 24 hours,” he said. “There are times when I wake up feeling inspired and I want to create music but there is no light. Sometimes, even when you want to buy fuel, they will tell you that there is a strike or scarcity. And then you end up doing nothing and the potential just wastes.”
He explained that creativity often thrives on spontaneity and mental readiness, adding that infrastructural deficiencies can blunt inspiration at critical moments.
“As a creative person, you need to be mentally charged to perform at your best. So, when the infrastructure is lacking the moment you are mentally charged, it is a challenge,” he added.
Beyond his personal experience, Sarz stressed that the broader Nigerian entertainment industry remains constrained by systemic shortcomings. According to him, while Nigerian music and film have achieved global recognition, the absence of reliable infrastructure — especially stable electricity — continues to limit the industry’s full potential.
His remarks echo wider concerns among stakeholders who argue that sustained investment in power, transport, and digital infrastructure is essential for the creative economy to thrive and compete more effectively on the global stage.