I’m Building My Music Career Independently, Not Riding My Father’s Wealth – Raheem Okoya

Raheem Okoya, the son of billionaire industrialist Rasaq Okoya, has stated that he is building his music career independently, emphasizing that he earns a salary and has attracted his own investors rather than relying on his father’s fortune.

The 22-year-old Executive Director of Eleganza Industries shared this in an interview with BBC News Yoruba, posted on Instagram on Tuesday, aiming to counter the notion that his role and lifestyle are solely the result of his father’s name and wealth.

“I work. I have a salary that I earn. I have investors. People believe in my music. They put money behind it,” he said.

Okoya, who juggles a music career alongside his corporate duties, explained that his father, the self-made founder of the Eleganza empire, intentionally taught his children the importance of hard work.

“My dad wasn’t born rich. He tries to instil those values in his kids. He wants his kids to also be able to work and build a fortune rather than just spend and destroy,” he said.

At just 22, Okoya, who now heads one of Nigeria’s most prominent industrial brands, clarified that his appointment was not sudden, but the result of nearly ten years of careful preparation.

“I’ve been learning this position my whole life. From when I was in school, I’ve been shadowing my dad. It’s not an overnight thing. It’s been 10 years in the making,” he said.

He acknowledged, however, that his young age continues to be a challenge he must consistently overcome in the perception of others.

“It’s definitely challenging. It’s a heavy responsibility. People already look at you. You’re young. They already want to doubt you. You always have to prove that you know what you’re talking about,” he said.

The Isale Eko-born executive also reflected fondly on the musical atmosphere of his upbringing, attributing it to the development of both his sound and ambition. He highlighted Fuji icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, K1 De Ultimate, as a regular influence in his childhood home.

“K1 is a legend. He used to ring in the corridors of my house,” he said.

Beneath his corporate and musical pursuits, Okoya revealed that his deepest motivation is earning the respect and approval of the man he admires most—his father.

“I love my dad so much. He’s my number one hero, my mentor. I just hope I can really, really make him proud one day,” he said.

Okoya further accused the media of deliberately misrepresenting him and his achievements.

“I don’t like fake news. I hate fake news. It cuts in my head. The media likes to put me up as a villain. They know what gets people riled up and moving. It’s not always the truth,” he said.

He added, “They will take a little thing or completely change the narrative and perspective on me. It’s not nice. It’s painful.”

Watch him speak below…

https://x.com/dammiedammie35/status/2023664359759663230?s=46&t=0Ses2497mFDgd6BL-n_Bqg