From ‘Olodo’ to Breadwinner: Portable Reflects on Education Struggles, Family Responsibilities and Rise to Stardom.
Nigerian street hop artiste Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has opened up about the personal struggles that shaped his journey to fame, revealing how poverty, limited educational opportunities, and family responsibilities influenced his early life before his rise in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Speaking during a recent interview, the singer recounted being labelled an “olodo” a Nigerian slang term often used to describe someone perceived as academically weak while growing up. Despite the stigma, Portable said he remained determined to build a better future for himself and his family.
According to the musician, his childhood was marked by economic hardship, forcing him to engage in petty trading, including hawking sachet water, to support daily survival. He explained that financial constraints prevented him from pursuing formal education to the level he desired, but the experience strengthened his resilience and work ethic.
Portable noted that his success in the music industry has transformed his family’s fortunes. He said that although he was once underestimated because of his educational background, he is now responsible for providing for many relatives and dependents, demonstrating that determination and talent can create opportunities beyond conventional expectations.
The singer’s remarks have generated widespread discussion across social media, with many Nigerians highlighting the broader challenges of poverty, limited access to quality education, and youth unemployment that continue to affect millions across the country. Others praised his openness, describing his story as an example of perseverance despite difficult circumstances.
Portable rose to national prominence in 2021 following the commercial success of his breakout hit, Zazoo Zeh, which featured renowned Nigerian artistes Olamide and Poco Lee. Since then, he has remained one of Nigeria’s most talked-about entertainers, frequently making headlines for both his music and public statements.
While Portable’s unconventional personality has often attracted controversy, his latest reflections offer insight into the realities faced by many young Nigerians striving to overcome socio economic barriers through entrepreneurship, creativity, and the entertainment industry.