Nigerian singer songwriter Simi has publicly declared her pride in Nigerian culture, stating that the spirit of Nigerians is something that “you can’t replicate”. Her remarks came during a recent appearance on the podcast The 90s Baby Show, where she highlighted what she loves most about her homeland.

Speaking about her favourite thing regarding Nigeria, Simi said: “My favourite thing about Nigeria is just the spirit of Nigerians. You can’t replicate it. Nobody else can be a Nigerian other than a Nigerian.”

A culture beyond imitation

In the interview, Simi went further to point out how global entertainment often adopts African accents but rarely attempts a truly Nigerian one.

That observation reflects her belief that there is something distinct about Nigerian identity one that is deeply rooted, unique and reflective of home. She added: “Being a Nigerian doesn’t just come as naturally; it just feels like home.”

Pride and hope in one breath

Although Simi spoke from a place of pride, she did not shy away from acknowledging the country’s challenges. On the same show she expressed a wish for Nigeria to be “better” so that fewer citizens would feel the need to leave.

By pairing celebration of culture with a candid look at societal issues, she positioned her comments as both a love letter to Nigeria and a subtle call for improvement.

Simi’s message resonates at a time when Nigerian arts and culture are receiving global attention yet she seems to remind us that cultural pride grows stronger when coupled with meaningful progress.