Akpabio: In Kenya, Every Fourth Child Born Is Called a Nigerian (Video)

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has shared an interesting cultural belief from Kenya, where every fourth child born in a family is informally referred to as “Nigerian,” regardless of their actual nationality.

Speaking in an interview with Symfoni TV, Akpabio recalled a conversation with Kenya’s Vice President during his visit. “Your Excellency, you’ve arrived just as my neighbor has given birth to a Nigerian,” the Vice President told him.

Initially confused, Akpabio asked if the child’s parents were Nigerian, but the Vice President clarified that both were Kenyan. He then explained that in Kenya and many African countries, there is a widespread belief that one in every four black individuals globally is Nigerian. As a result, the fourth child in a family is often given the informal title of “Nigerian.”

Reflecting on this, Akpabio emphasized that Nigerians should take pride in their global recognition. “We often fail to appreciate ourselves and underestimate our influence. This belief highlights Nigeria’s significance in the world,” he noted.

His remarks serve as a reminder of Nigeria’s cultural and demographic impact across Africa and beyond.