Where Is “Nigeria Go Survive” Singer, Veno Marioghae?

In the early 80s, Veno Marioghae’s song was on the lips of every music-loving Nigerian. Her hit song ‘Nigeria Go Survive, released in 1984, was an anthem back in the day. When the economy was crippled by the abrupt drop in oil prices, the song provided precisely the tonic of hope that Nigerians needed. Throughout that hard time, the song was an expression of optimism.

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Additionally, the song advocated against the massive brain drain, or “japa” sydrome as it is now known. In the music video, Enebeli Elebuwa, the late Nollywood legend, played Andrew, who wanted to “checkout” of Nigeria. Almost four decades later, the song lyrics are still relevant to the situation in the country. According to the Delta State-born singer, she didn’t make a dime from the song “Nigeria Go Survive” in terms of royalties. However, she admitted that she got a lot of government patronage because of the message she was preaching. Veno also released a second album, “Survivor” with the hit song, “Siobo n’ome” After that, she took a break from recording, got married, and concentrated on raising her children.

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Veno is currently an English elocution/creative writing and public speaking trainer. She also writes TV drama and movie scripts, short stories, and songs. After a very long hiatus, Veno begun to perform again. She is now more into gospel songs. In 2014, she released a single, “A New Song.” In 2022, the ‘Siobo Nome’ singer sued telecom giant Airtel to court for infringing on her intellectual property. The singer, through her lawyer, demanded N50m for the unauthorised commercial and derogatory use of her work by the network. The singer, who now goes by the name Veno Mariaghae-Mbanefo, attended Emede Grammar School, Emede, Isoko, Delta State and Federal Government Girls’ College, Benin City, Edo State. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Jos, Nigeria. Veno Mariaghae-Mbanefo is a wife, mother and grandmother. She currently resides in Lagos, Nigeria.

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