In Nigeria, Stand up comedy is dying- Basket Mouth

November 25, 2023 Joshua Samuel

Well-known comedian Basketmouth, also known as Bright Okpocha, has bemoaned the fact that stand-up in Nigeria “is dying.”

He pointed out that the Nigerian comedy industry lacks “structure and platform,” in contrast to the music and film sectors.

In a recent interview with Arise TV, he said

“My colleagues will agree with me that stand-up comedy in Nigeria is actually dying,” stated Basketmouth. The stand-up comedy scene is severely lacking in culture.

“You know, with music, they have their streaming services; a platform that backs their global endeavors. The streaming platform is what they have in common with films. Afrobeats then invaded that area, creating room for the films. We regrettably don’t have any platforms for humor. We don’t have any structure or comedic clubs.

“Comedy entertainers in the United States try out the material several times before embarking on a tour by performing at comedy clubs around the country. However, there are no comedy clubs in Nigeria. You have nowhere to put your materials into practice.

You can’t just make something and walk on stage without knowing how people will react because it’s art. Before releasing a song to the public, musicians send it out to A&R, a variety of people, to get their opinion. However, there are a lot of comedians around here. It’s a dangerous game. Additionally, they are the ones seeking sponsors and advertising the programs.

Comedy is not supported by the structure of the system. Many newcomers lack the same platform that we did.

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Joshua Samuel

A conscientious writer with a knack and passion for story telling which spans across different sectors and segments. I love telling stories in writing and bringing quality, authentic and timely information to everyone everywhere.

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