“I Stand Alone”: Omah Lay Declares Himself the Best Nigerian Artist of the Last 20 Years

The Afrobeats scene is currently in an uproar following a bold and unfiltered interview by Omah Lay on the Nando Leaks podcast, aired Thursday, April 2, 2026. The “Soso” singer did not hold back, crowning himself the supreme force in Nigerian music over the last two decades.

The “G.O.A.T.” Proclamation

Omah Lay (Stanley Didia) sparked intense debate by declaring himself the best Nigerian artist of the last 20 years. He argued that when it comes to the core “art of music-making” and creative depth, he has no equal among his contemporaries.

“I am the best in this sht… when it comes to the art of making music, I am the best in the last 20 years,”* he stated, emphasizing that his talent transcends standard industry rankings.

Burna Boy: The Only Exception?

In a move that has both Burna Boy’s “Outsiders” and his own fans talking, Omah Lay noted that Burna Boy is the only artist he occasionally considers to be on his level. However, he quickly clarified that even with that comparison, he ultimately sees himself standing alone at the pinnacle of the genre. He expressed frustration at being “lumped into categories” with other artists, firmly telling the hosts, “No, don’t do that, I’m the greatest.”

Artistry Over Visuals

Addressing his public image, the singer admitted that his visuals (music videos and public branding) might not be the strongest in the industry. He attributed this to his personality rather than a lack of effort, but insisted that visual flair should not be confused with musical genius.

A Deeply Personal Turn

Beyond the music debate, Omah Lay got vulnerable about his personal life, revealing that:

  • Mental Toll: He struggled with “obsessive tendencies,” particularly in his romantic and sex life throughout 2025.
  • Grammy Heartbreak: He shared that a woman he hoped to start a family with ended their relationship during the week of the 2025 Grammy Awards, adding a layer of personal pain to his professional journey.