British rapper Dave is facing backlash after taking a jab at Nigerian footballers in a track from his latest album, The Boy Who Play The Harp.
In the song “Chapter 16,” the award-winning artiste compared women who lie about their age to Nigerian strikers, rapping: “H*es lying about their age like Nigerian strikers.”
The line quickly sparked criticism on social media, with many calling it an unfair stereotype that generalises all Nigerian attackers.
Dave, despite being a UK citizen, has strong Nigerian roots; both of his parents are from Edo State.
Over the years, he has proudly celebrated his heritage and worked with top Afrobeats artistes such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, and, most recently, Tems on this new album.
However, some football fans admit the lyrics hit close to home. Age-cheating scandals have long plagued Nigerian football, especially at the youth level.
The issue once led to the complete disbandment of the country’s U-17 men’s team after widespread discrepancies were uncovered.
See some comments and a post below
@Ahbokii___"They be 22 every year"
@JOHNIIIIZ___"That Nigerian keeper said he was 18"
@GOseyande____"They always say they’re between 20 and 23 years old when asked about their age"
@kvng_kenney___"All osimhen’s childhood friends in oregun are 30+ "
@Ewere003__"Fun fact he's Nigerian himself"
“Hoes lying about their age like Nigerian strikers”
— UK Rap Daily (@UKRapDaily) October 24, 2025
- Dave on ‘Chapter 16’ pic.twitter.com/6TOGkcQy20
