American rapper and YouTube star DDG, whose real name is Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., has ignited a significant online debate following his recent visit to Nigeria. In January 2026, the hip-hop artist made a bold declaration, stating that he feels safer in Nigeria than he does in his home country, the United States.
DDG Praises Nigeria's Communal Spirit, Critiques US Division
During his trip, DDG shared his perspective in a video that quickly spread across social media platform X. The "Moonwalking in Calabasas" artist contrasted the social environments of the two nations, asserting that America is "the most divided country ever." He highlighted Nigeria's sense of oneness and communal unity, which he experienced firsthand.
DDG elaborated on his views regarding crime, drawing a sharp distinction between motivations in Nigeria and the US. He suggested that criminal acts in Nigeria are primarily driven by necessity and survival. "I might get robbed, but it ain't no robbing out of hate. It's robbing out of need," DDG explained. He contrasted this with his perception of crime in America, which he claims often stems from malice and personal hatred.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians: Privilege vs. Positive Spotlight
The rapper's comments triggered a wave of mixed reactions from Nigerians online. While some welcomed the positive international remark, many were quick to critique the context of his experience.
Critics argued that DDG's sense of safety was heavily influenced by celebrity privilege. They pointed out that as a wealthy visitor, he likely had access to private security, traveled in secure vehicles, and stayed in affluent areas like Ikoyi, Lekki, and Victoria Island in Lagos. Commenters challenged him to visit other parts of the country, such as Mushin, Nyanya, Benue, or Kogi, to experience the safety concerns faced by ordinary citizens, including risks like kidnappings.
Supporters, however, viewed his statement as a rare and refreshing positive narrative about Nigerian solidarity, especially amidst widespread economic challenges. Some users agreed with his comparative analysis, noting issues like frequent school shootings in the US.
Echoes of a Previous Endorsement from Boris Johnson
Interestingly, DDG is not the only international figure to recently comment on safety in Nigeria. Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson also stated he felt "perfectly safe" during his attendance at the Imo State Economic Summit in Owerri in 2025. Johnson dismissed negative international security reports, emphasizing Nigeria's economic potential and innovation as its true assets.
The conversation sparked by DDG's visit underscores the complex and often contradictory perceptions of safety and unity in Nigeria, viewed through the lens of both local experience and foreign perspective.
