Ace Nigerian music producer Sarz, born Osabuohien Osaretin, has opened up about the significant gap in music streaming revenue between Nigeria and Western countries.
Speaking on a recent episode of the Afropolitan podcast, Sarz revealed that earnings from one million Spotify streams in the United States range between $3,000 and $5,000. In contrast, the same number of streams in Nigeria generates approximately $300 to $500.
“A million streams from the United States is maybe $3000–$5000. That same 1 million streams from Nigeria is arguably maybe $300–$500, but it will cost you the same amount to market or promote a song in Nigeria as much as it would cost you abroad,” he said.
According to the producer, the disparity is largely driven by economic factors. He explained that subscribers in Western countries pay significantly higher subscription fees compared to Nigerians, reflecting stronger economies and higher purchasing power.
Sarz noted that while Nigerians are passionate about music and actively consume it, many lack the financial capacity to afford premium streaming subscriptions. As a result, streams generated locally are less economically valuable than those from Western markets.
On possible solutions, Sarz stated that improvements in the country’s economic situation would ultimately benefit the entertainment industry.
“We are waiting for the state of the country to get better so other things can start improving,” he said. “I think we have done very well with the resources that we have and with all the obstacles against us.”
He added that empowering citizens economically is key, emphasizing that broader government-driven economic reforms would help increase consumers’ ability to pay for streaming services and, in turn, boost revenue for Nigerian artists and producers.
