Nigerian music producer and executive Osabuohien Osaretin, widely known as Sarz, has raised concerns about the effect of poor infrastructure on the country’s creative sector.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Afropolitan podcast, the 36-year-old producer highlighted unreliable electricity supply as a major obstacle to productivity for creatives in Nigeria.
“I’ve Never Had 24 Hours of Power”
Sarz said he has never experienced uninterrupted electricity for a full day despite being born and raised in the country.
According to him, the lack of stable power disrupts the creative process, particularly during moments of inspiration.
“There are times when I wake up feeling inspired and I want to create music, but there is no light,” he said. “Sometimes, even when you try to buy fuel, you are told there is a strike or scarcity. You end up doing nothing, and that potential just goes to waste.”
Creativity Needs the Right Environment
The producer stressed that creativity depends not only on talent but also on the right environment.
“As a creative person, you need to be mentally charged to perform at your best,” he explained. “When the infrastructure fails at that moment, it becomes a serious challenge.”
Sarz argued that without reliable systems, particularly electricity, the Nigerian entertainment industry will struggle to reach its full capacity.
While Nigeria’s music and film sectors have gained global recognition in recent years, Sarz maintained that long-term growth depends heavily on improved infrastructure. He warned that until foundational issues such as power supply are addressed, the industry’s progress will remain constrained.
About the Author
