Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, better known as Portable, has sparked a new wave of debate and intrigue across social media with an audacious claim that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. The ‘Zazu Zeh’ crooner, known for his larger-than-life personality, declared that any artist who features him in their song is bound to win a Grammy Award.
This boastful proclamation comes in the wake of the 67th Grammy Awards, where Nigerian music star Tems made history by winning her second Grammy, solidifying her position as a global force in music. However, Portable’s claim seems to be more about his personal frustrations than about recognizing the achievements of others.
In a video that quickly went viral, Portable lamented his perceived lack of recognition and opportunity, despite his undeniable rise from obscurity to stardom. “I am the pioneer of my success. No one brought me up. God did it, not anybody,” he said. “Olamide picked me up, but after that, nobody else helped me rise. If not for being neglected, I would have already won a Grammy. Any artiste who features me will win a Grammy,” he boldly added, as he gestured passionately in the video.
The statement, which some have dubbed both ambitious and controversial, has set the internet alight, with many fans and critics weighing in on his words.
The Roots of Portable’s Resilience
Portable’s career has been far from conventional. A self-proclaimed street artist, he broke into the music scene with viral hits and an unpredictable nature that has made him both a fan favorite and a divisive figure. His explosive personality, however, has also led to several clashes with other celebrities and industry figures. It’s no secret that Portable has faced his fair share of challenges in the Nigerian music industry, from conflicts with fellow artistes to issues with management.
Despite the controversy surrounding him, Portable’s rise to fame has been rapid, largely due to his grassroots following and his collaborations with big names in the Nigerian music scene. Portable’s breakthrough came when he worked with superstar Olamide, who helped bring his unique sound to a wider audience. However, the “Zazu” star believes that he has not received the same level of industry backing as other artistes, particularly when it comes to the prestigious Grammy Awards.
“I’m telling you, if you want to collect a Grammy, drop a verse for me. I get the chorus,” Portable said in the viral video, making it clear that he believes his involvement in a song is the missing link for many artistes who have yet to achieve global recognition.
His outspoken attitude on social media has also garnered significant attention, but not always in a positive light. Critics argue that his comments reflect a deeper frustration with the industry’s treatment of him. “Portable’s struggle isn’t about the lack of Grammy recognition for himself. It’s about the frustration of feeling overlooked by an industry he believes owes him more,” said a music industry insider who wished to remain anonymous.
Portable and His Controversial Statements
This latest claim follows several high-profile social media rants by Portable. In the past, he has accused other artists and celebrities of undermining him, often posting scathing videos and direct confrontations. From his altercation with Nollywood star Odunlade Adekola over a viral video with his baby mama, to his public quarrel with Queen Dami, Portable has not been shy about airing his grievances.
Portable’s fiery rants, while often criticized, have also built his reputation as an artiste who is unapologetically vocal and self-confident. “Failure is not an option for me. I don’t have backup; I am the backup. That’s why I am working hard,” he asserted in the same video, underscoring his resilience and determination to succeed despite his perceived setbacks. “I believe in my phone and sub. Any disappointment is a blessing,” he said, emphasizing that he views challenges as stepping stones rather than barriers.
A Historic Year for Nigerian Music
As Nigeria continues to make waves in the global music industry, Portable’s statements come at a time when the country’s influence on the world stage is more pronounced than ever. The 67th Grammy Awards, held in February 2025, saw Nigerian singer Tems bag her second Grammy, solidifying the country’s place in global music culture. Her win, alongside artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid, highlighted the growing impact of Nigerian music in the international arena.
However, Portable’s claim adds another layer to the conversation around the Grammy Awards and the Nigerian music scene. While Tems’ win has been widely celebrated, Portable seems to believe that his unique talent and contributions have been sidelined by the mainstream industry. “If I had the support, the recognition, and the collaborations, I would have taken home a Grammy by now,” he asserted.
Portable’s strong belief in his own potential, paired with his refusal to conform to industry norms, has made him a polarizing figure in Nigerian music. On one hand, his resilience has garnered him a loyal fanbase that admires his authenticity and refusal to be silenced. On the other hand, his statements often clash with the expectations of a more traditional, professional music industry.
The Road to Recognition
Despite his bombastic personality, Portable is far from alone in his desire for recognition. Many Nigerian artistes have long struggled with the challenges of breaking into the international spotlight, and the path to a Grammy remains elusive for most. Industry experts argue that while collaborations with high-profile artists can enhance a musician’s chances of recognition, there are many other factors at play, including music quality, international marketability, and strategic networking.
“Grammy wins are not just about being featured in a track. It’s about having the right combination of talent, timing, and visibility,” said a music producer familiar with the international music market. “Portable has potential, but he needs more than just bold claims. He needs to fine-tune his approach to gain serious traction internationally.”
For now, Portable’s claims remain a topic of debate among fans and critics alike. Whether or not his bold prediction comes true remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Portable will continue to make waves, no matter how controversial his methods may be.
