9ice Critiques Religion's Impact on Nigeria's Development

In an interview with Nanci Isim in August 2025, Nigerian singer 9ice, whose real name is Alex Adegbola Akande, expressed his belief that foreign religions and prayers have not contributed to Nigeria's development. Speaking at an event for Gold Myne TV, he criticized the widespread religious devotion in Nigeria, comparing it unfavorably to the United Kingdom, where he noted that people are less religious yet enjoy greater prosperity.

He stated, "Despite widespread religious devotion, Nigeria hasn't gotten better," and highlighted that many people in London do not attend church but still experience better living conditions. 9ice, known for his hit "Gongo Asa," revealed that he became a traditionalist and Ifa priest after suffering from spiritual ailments, expressing regret for not embracing traditional religion earlier in his life.