Comedian AY reveals why Nigerians Comedian should stop telling jokes with pidgin

Nigerian entertainment industry has been on the rise lately with several talented comedians breaking into the scene. Ayo Makun, who is a popular Nigerian actor and comedian, also known as AY, has shared his thoughts on the challenges facing Nigerian stand-up comics in achieving global recognition.

According to AY Comedian, the language barrier is a significant factor that limits Nigerian comedians from gaining international acceptance. While the comedy industry in Nigeria is thriving locally, it has yet to make a significant impact on the global stage. AY believes that the use of pidgin English in Nigerian comedy is the primary reason for this.

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To achieve global dominance, AY suggests that Nigerian comedians should focus on developing their craft to cater to a wider audience, which involves minimizing the use of pidgin English. This approach, according to him, will enable Nigerian comedians to connect with a global audience more effectively.

While pidgin English is a commonly spoken language in Nigeria, it can be challenging for foreigners to understand. Therefore, the use of more universal language in comedy acts would make it easier for a global audience to connect with Nigerian comedians.

He said; “The Nigerian comedy industry is doing very well locally. But we are yet to hit it big globally like our counterparts in the entertainment industry. The journey will be fast-tracked when we stop limiting ourselves from telling jokes in pidgin. There would be no global Trevor Noah if he was telling all his jokes in the Zulu language.”

“Breaking into the industry and becoming successful in what you do takes a lot of dedication. I have learned to be focused on achieving creative set goals. It has helped me gain deep knowledge about what works and doesn’t work in my industry. This is one thing I will recommend to the younger generation to help improve their chances of working their way up the ladder. Always find a way to separate yourself from the crowd by coming in with something new.

“Most people go into an industry thinking that everyone is their friend. Even in the entertainment industry, the glitz and glamour in the industry can fool an outsider into believing that. My dreams started finding expressions the minute I realised that some actions are directed at you just to make you lose focus. There was a time I almost gave up just because a senior colleague believed that I was too small and irrelevant to do my own show at a time.”