Renowned Nigerian rapper Vector has opened up about his childhood, sharing how his upbringing shaped his resilient mindset and fueled his passion for music.
In a candid interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo on The With Chude Show, Vector discussed the unique experiences of growing up in a military barracks and the unwavering support he received from his parents.
“I was a stubborn child,” he humorously admitted, reflecting on his early years.
Vector grew up in a military environment, which he believes played a significant role in his development.
He recalled, “Living in the barracks exposed me to different people and cultures, and I learned to be tough from an early age.”
His parents encouraged his dreams of becoming a rapper, which is not always common in Nigerian households.
Many parents in Nigeria often prioritize traditional career paths, such as medicine or engineering.
However, Vector’s parents took a different approach.
“They never showed favouritism among us, even with my sister who has sickle cell anemia,” he explained.
Vector’s family dynamics contributed to his strong sense of self and independence.
He shared, “I learnt how to self-reflect. African parents usually default to strict parenting, but my parents were different.”
This balanced approach made a lasting impression on him.
“My parents did their best to show that no child was their favorite,” he said, emphasizing the equality in how they treated him and his siblings.
In a country where favoritism can sometimes lead to resentment among siblings, Vector’s experience stands out.
“My sister was a sickle cell warrior, and you might think she got the most care, but they were fair to all of us,” he noted.
His parents’ care and support helped him feel loved and valued throughout his childhood.
Despite the challenges that came with having a sibling with a chronic illness, the family unit remained strong.
Vector stated, “My sister has two children now, showing that our upbringing was effective and loving.”
The rapper also shared how he developed a unique identity during his childhood.
“At one point, they started calling me ‘Vector the Viper’ because that’s what I identified with,” he said, showing how his family embraced his personality.
His brother, a DJ, also had a nickname, which highlighted the family’s supportive and creative environment.
“We were encouraged to express ourselves,” Vector added.
He described his parents as being strict yet nurturing, emphasizing the importance of hard work.
“They made you work for what you believed in,” he said, underlining that nothing was handed to them.
Vector’s upbringing was not one of luxury but rather one filled with love and guidance.
“I grew up sheltered, not in the sense of a silver spoon,” he clarified.
This environment prepared him for the challenges of the music industry, which can be harsh and competitive.
“I developed a ‘whatever the weather, what I want to do is what I do’ mindset,” he said, reflecting on how his childhood shaped his tenacity.
His story is a testament to the power of parental support and the importance of believing in oneself.
As an artist, Vector has made a name for himself in the Nigerian music scene.
His unique style blends rap with traditional African sounds, making his music relatable to many.
He has released numerous hit songs and collaborated with various artists, earning accolades along the way.
But despite his success, he remains grounded and grateful for his upbringing.
Vector’s ability to navigate the challenges of fame while staying true to his roots is admirable.
He often shares messages of resilience and empowerment through his music, inspiring younger generations to chase their dreams.
“I want young people to know that it’s okay to be stubborn about your dreams,” he emphasized during the interview.
Vector believes that the challenges he faced as a child have equipped him with the tools needed for success.
“My childhood taught me to be strong and to never back down from what I believe in,” he said.
As he continues to thrive in the music industry, Vector remains connected to his roots.
He frequently speaks about the importance of community and support in achieving one’s goals.
“I owe a lot to my family and where I came from,” he stated, reflecting on the values instilled in him during his formative years.
The rapper’s journey from a stubborn child in a military barrack to a successful musician is an inspiring story for many young Nigerians.
He encourages the youth to embrace their uniqueness and to pursue their passions relentlessly.
In a society that often imposes limitations, Vector’s story serves as a reminder that with the right support, anything is possible.
“I believe in the power of dreams,” he concluded.
