American hip-hop legend , born Trevor Smith Jr., has sparked widespread conversation after revealing his desire to relocate to Nigeria and possibly start a family in the country.
The 53-year-old rapper made the comments during a live performance at the held in over the weekend, an appearance that marked a memorable moment for fans and festivalgoers.
Midway through his energetic set, Busta Rhymes paused to speak candidly about his growing connection to Nigeria, describing the country as a place he sees himself calling home in the future. His remarks were met with loud cheers from the crowd, reflecting the warmth with which Nigerian fans received the idea.
According to the veteran rapper, his journey to Nigeria was not an impulsive decision but one that took many years to materialise. He revealed that it took him 15 years to finally make the trip, a fact he described as deeply meaningful.
“This trip is special to me,” Busta Rhymes told the audience. “It took me 15 years to make it here.”
He went on to share that his plans extend beyond frequent visits or short stays. Instead, the rapper said he is seriously considering relocating to Nigeria after retiring from active music and performance, with long-term intentions of settling down.
“I’m looking for a home here, I’m looking for property,” he said. “I’m thinking about looking for a wife so that when I stop working, I can settle down here.”
The comments immediately generated excitement across social media, with many fans praising the rapper for embracing African culture and expressing interest in reconnecting with the continent. Others viewed the remarks as another sign of Nigeria’s growing influence as a cultural and creative hub, particularly for members of the African diaspora.
Busta Rhymes’ presence in Nigeria during the festive December season placed him at the centre of the country’s globally recognised “Detty December” celebrations—a period marked by concerts, festivals, tourism, and cultural events that attract artists and visitors from around the world. His participation added further international weight to the festivities and highlighted Nigeria’s expanding footprint in global entertainment.
Over the years, Nigeria has increasingly become a destination of choice for international artists, particularly those of African descent seeking cultural reconnection, business opportunities, or creative inspiration. Busta Rhymes’ comments align with a broader trend of diaspora figures expressing interest in investing, living, or retiring on the African continent.
While the rapper did not provide a timeline for his proposed move, his words suggested a serious level of intent. He spoke openly about property ownership and family life, indicating that his interest in Nigeria goes beyond admiration from afar.
Busta Rhymes is one of hip-hop’s most influential figures, celebrated for his rapid-fire delivery, commanding stage presence, and decades-long contribution to the genre. Rising to prominence in the early 1990s, he has remained a respected and relevant voice in music, collaborating with multiple generations of artists and maintaining a loyal global fan base.
Despite his fame and long career, Busta Rhymes has never been married. He is, however, a father of six children with four different women, a fact he has spoken about openly in the past. His comments in Lagos suggest he may now be considering a new chapter in his personal life, one centred on stability and long-term settlement.
For many Nigerians, the rapper’s remarks were viewed as flattering and affirming, reinforcing the country’s appeal beyond music and entertainment. Nigeria’s rich culture, strong sense of community, and expanding creative economy continue to draw interest from international figures seeking deeper connections to Africa.
Although it remains to be seen whether Busta Rhymes will follow through on his plans, his statements have already added to ongoing conversations about diaspora return, cultural reconnection, and Africa’s place in the global creative landscape.
As Nigeria continues to position itself as a destination for culture, investment, and lifestyle, comments from high-profile figures like Busta Rhymes underscore the country’s growing soft power and global relevance.
For now, fans will watch with interest to see whether the hip-hop icon’s Lagos declaration marks the beginning of a permanent move—or simply a heartfelt expression of admiration during a memorable visit.
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