“It’s 2025 and We’re Still Shouting ‘Up NEPA'” — Falz Slams Nigeria’s Lack of Progress, Recalls Personal Struggles

Rapper, actor, and outspoken activist Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has once again voiced his frustration over Nigeria’s lack of meaningful development, particularly in essential areas like electricity and infrastructure.

In a recent interview with HipTV, the award-winning artist expressed disbelief that in 2025, Nigerians are still battling erratic power supply and failing drainage systems — two issues that have plagued the country for decades.

 “The biggest thing, practically speaking, is the yield of electricity,” Falz lamented. “It’s still wild. In 2025, we’re still dealing with Up NEPA. That in itself is ridiculous.”

The entertainer also called out the state of urban planning, criticising Nigeria’s poor drainage systems that often leave major cities flooded after minimal rainfall.

“Any small rainfall like this, we have to be swimming around. It’s shameful,” he said.

But Falz didn’t stop at infrastructure. He also took a swipe at the state of mental health in the entertainment industry, describing the space as “mad” and overrun with unresolved trauma.

 “A lot of people are walking around untreated. Everyone has a bit of madness, but some are just deeper than others,” he said with a mix of humour and concern.

Beyond social commentary, the Bop Daddy rapper got candid about personal challenges, including a heartbreaking romantic moment. He shared how he once arranged a special dinner with flowers for a woman he liked, only to be turned down after the meal.

 “I really liked the girl. I thought we were on the same page, but apparently not,” he said, laughing at the memory.

Falz also touched on the pressure of coming from a prominent family. As the son of respected human rights lawyer Femi Falana, he revealed how his early success was often credited to his father’s influence.

 “People used to say I made it because of my dad. But now, I’ve made a name for myself. These days, when they see him, they say, ‘That’s Falz’s dad,’” he said proudly.