“I’D LOVE TO COLLAB WITH AJAGBA, OSIMHEN” — JAYWON

Nigerian singer, songwriter, producer and actor Oluwajuwonlo Iledare, popularly known as Jaywon, has expressed his desire to collaborate with Nigerian athletes, particularly boxer Efe Ajagba and footballer Victor Osimhen, saying music and sports have the power to unite Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines.

The collaboration desire was expressed in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, where he spoke about his passion for sports and the need for greater investment in young Nigerian talent.

THE ADMIRATION

Jaywon identified Ajagba, the Nigerian heavyweight boxer known as “The Silent Roller,” as his favourite sports personality.

“I appreciate so many incredible athletes, but right now, I would have to say Nigerian heavyweight boxer Efe Ajagba. I admire his strength, discipline, confidence and determination. He is the kind of fighter you cannot afford to underestimate. His boxing ability, power and composure make him a serious challenge for anyone in the heavyweight division,” he said .

He also praised Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi, saying their success internationally proves that Nigerian talent is limitless.

“If Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi can compete and excel at the highest international level, it means countless other young Nigerians can achieve the same with the right opportunities, encouragement and support,” he said .

THE COLLABORATION

Jaywon said he would love to work with Ajagba and Osimhen on a project that combines music, sports and youth empowerment.

“I would want it to tell the story of perseverance, celebrate Nigerian excellence and inspire the next generation to believe that their dreams are valid, regardless of where they come from,” he said .

He argued that music and sports are two of the most powerful forces bringing Nigerians together.

“When the Super Eagles are playing, nobody is asking whether a player is Yoruba, Igbo or Hausa, or whether they are Christian or Muslim. Everybody just wants Nigeria to win. The same thing happens with music,” he said .

THE CALL FOR INVESTMENT

Jaywon urged the government to invest more in both industries, particularly at the grassroots level.

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“There are extraordinary young athletes in communities across the country who simply need someone to believe in them and give them an opportunity because greatness can come from anywhere,” he said .

WHY IT MATTERS

Jaywon’s message is simple: Nigeria has talent. What it lacks is investment, opportunity and belief. The success of Osimhen, Lookman, Iwobi and Ajagba on the international stage is proof that Nigerian athletes can compete with the best in the world.

But for every Osimhen, there are thousands of young Nigerians with the same potential who never get the chance to shine.

Jaywon wants to use his platform to change that. His proposed collaboration with Ajagba and Osimhen is not just about music or sports. It is about telling a story of Nigerian excellence, perseverance and hope.

The collaboration may or may not happen. But the message is already clear: Nigeria’s greatest resource is its people. And they deserve to be celebrated. ValidViewNetwork reports.