By Ayo Onikoyi

It is fast becoming a thing of the past to see top Nigerian music artists like Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Tems amogst others perform at local events and shows in Nigeria after their global acclaim. The noticeable trend among them these days is their preference for international performances over local shows. While they continue to entertain fans at home, many top artists prioritize concerts, festivals, and tours abroad. Here’s why:

1. Higher Financial Rewards

One of the most compelling reasons Nigerian artists prefer international shows is the financial incentives. International concerts, particularly in Europe and North America, pay significantly higher than most local gigs. International event organizers often have bigger budgets, and ticket prices in developed economies are much higher compared to Nigeria, allowing artists to earn more per show.

2. Better Organization and Logistics

International shows tend to be well-organized, with state-of-the-art stage setups, professional sound systems, and efficient security arrangements. In contrast, local concerts in Nigeria sometimes suffer from poor planning, technical issues, and security concerns. These challenges make international performances more appealing for artists seeking professionalism and a seamless experience.

3. Exposure to a Global Audience

Performing internationally provides Nigerian artists with access to a broader audience, helping them expand their fan base beyond Africa. With the growing popularity of Afrobeats, artists use global tours to connect with international fans, collaborate with foreign musicians, and establish their presence in the global music market.

4. Stronger Brand Value and Prestige

An international tour or performance at renowned music festivals such as Coachella, Wireless Festival, or Afro Nation boosts an artist’s reputation. These shows help them gain credibility, attract more lucrative endorsement deals, and position them as global superstars.

5. More Supportive Infrastructure

International events often come with sponsorship deals, media coverage, and streaming opportunities that elevate an artist’s career. Nigerian artists performing abroad benefit from partnerships with global brands, music promoters, and international media, which further solidify their global standing.

6. Security Concerns at Home

Nigeria has faced security challenges, including incidents of theft, violence, and even stampedes at concerts. Artists may feel safer performing abroad, where crowd control and security measures are more effective.

7. Higher Demand and Fan Readiness

Interestingly, Nigerian artists sometimes experience greater appreciation from international audiences. Many fans abroad are willing to pay premium prices to watch their favorite Afrobeats stars perform, unlike in Nigeria, where ticket prices are often a point of contention.

Conclusion

While Nigerian artists still perform locally, international shows offer better financial benefits, enhanced security, and more professional experiences. As Afrobeats continues to dominate the global music scene, Nigerian artists will likely keep prioritizing international performances to maximize their earnings, grow their fan base, and solidify their status as global icons.