Nigerian music superstar Ayodeji Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has responded sharply to remarks made by veteran singer Innocent Idibia, widely known as 2Baba, regarding the global status of fellow Afrobeats star Burna Boy. The exchange has reignited debates among fans about the international influence and success of Nigeria’s biggest music exports.
The controversy began when 2Baba, a pioneer of modern Nigerian music, stated in a recent interview that Burna Boy is ahead of both Wizkid and Davido in terms of international growth and global recognition.
“Burna Boy is ahead of Wizkid and Davido when it comes to global growth,” the veteran singer said. His comments quickly went viral online, sparking discussions and arguments among fans on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook.
Wizkid responded to the remarks on his Snapchat account with what appeared to be a subtle but pointed jab at 2Baba. He wrote:
“At least make peace with your family first before having opinions about music. Old man, I’m never letting it slack in 2026.”
The post immediately generated a storm of reactions online. While some fans applauded Wizkid for defending his legacy and asserting his global relevance, others criticized the tone of his message, calling for more respect toward 2Baba, who is widely respected as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s music industry.
The comment also reignited conversations about Afrobeats fandom and the rivalry—real or perceived—between Nigeria’s top artists.
The debate underscores the growing global influence of Afrobeats, a music genre that has gained international recognition in recent years. Artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido have brought Nigerian music to major stages worldwide, performing in sold-out arenas, collaborating with international stars, and earning global awards and nominations.
Wizkid’s own global footprint has been significant. He has performed at major international festivals, collaborated with artists such as Drake and Beyoncé, and played a key role in promoting Nigerian music abroad. Similarly, Burna Boy has earned Grammys, performed at major events, and become a household name worldwide. Davido, too, has achieved international collaborations and chart success.
The debate over who leads Afrobeats globally often sparks passionate arguments among fans. Supporters of Wizkid emphasize his long-standing influence and international collaborations, while Burna Boy fans point to his Grammy win and consistent global recognition. 2Baba’s comments appear to have touched a nerve, reigniting these discussions.
Social media reactions have been divided. Some fans defended Wizkid, applauding him for standing up for his contributions to Afrobeats. One fan wrote: “Wizkid has put Nigeria on the map long before Burna Boy came; respect is due!”
Others called on both artists to avoid public disputes. “We love Afrobeats; we don’t need fights between legends,” a comment read. Another user said, “2Baba is a legend, Wizkid is a star. Let’s just appreciate them all.”
Despite the viral nature of the post, neither 2Baba nor Burna Boy has responded publicly to Wizkid’s remarks. Analysts suggest that their silence may be strategic, avoiding further escalation while allowing fans to debate.
2Baba, a founding member of the now-defunct group Plantashun Boiz, is often seen as part of the generation that brought Nigerian pop music to mainstream prominence in the early 2000s. He has enjoyed decades of success and is widely regarded as a role model and mentor to younger artists.
Wizkid, who rose to prominence in the 2010s, represents a younger generation of artists who have used digital platforms, international collaborations, and social media to expand Afrobeats globally. His response to 2Baba reflects the tensions that can arise when different generations of artists are compared.
The exchange also raises questions about legacy and influence. While Burna Boy has recently dominated international headlines, Wizkid has a consistent history of collaborations and achievements that have significantly contributed to Afrobeats’ global presence.
“Comparisons will always happen,” said a Lagos-based music analyst. “Fans are passionate, and every artist has their strengths. But these conversations also show how far Nigerian music has come—it’s now a global talking point.”
Wizkid’s subtle shade of 2Baba may be interpreted as both a defense of his personal achievements and a commentary on generational differences in music. It also emphasizes his determination to maintain relevance and continue expanding his influence in 2026.