Segun Akano’s journey from Nigeria to Ireland is a story of resilience, music, and the power of community. Arriving in Ireland at just 17, Akano knew no one and had little understanding of the country. Today, he is a celebrated musician, software engineer, and the leader of the 13-member Yankari Afrobeat Collective, which has gained international acclaim for its fusion of Afrobeat, fuji, funk, and highlife rhythms.
Akano’s life in Ireland began with uncertainty. After leaving Nigeria alone, he spent a few months in London before making his way to Dublin. “When I arrived, I didn’t know anybody. It was a very, very terrifying time for me,” he recalls. Determined to build a future, Akano applied for asylum and lived in the Old Schoolhouse hostel in Dún Laoghaire for over three years. During this time, he balanced his studies—completing his leaving Cert at St Laurence College and pursuing engineering at IT Tallaght—with night shifts at a petrol station and weekend music performances at Pentecostalist church services in Naas.
Music has always been central to Akano’s life. Growing up in Nigeria, he was introduced to music in what he humorously describes as “a bit more aggressive” way. “You had no choice,” he jokes. Despite financial hardships, Akano’s passion for music never wavered. In Ireland,he found solace and purpose in performing with groups like Arambe Productions,led by Bisi Adigun,and through the support of organizations like the Dún Laoghaire Refugee Project. “Such activities allow refugees to really contribute,be more positive,proud,” he says.
Akano’s perseverance paid off. Though his asylum submission was initially unsuccessful, he was granted leave to remain in 2008 on humanitarian grounds. He credits his success to the kindness of others, including Mary King and Rita canavan, who “kept us engaged” during challenging times. Today, Akano is a dual-career professional, balancing his work as a software engineer with his role as the musical director of the Yankari Afrobeat Collective. The group, which includes his brother Michael Akano and Uché Gabriel Akujobi, has performed at prestigious events like TradFest and has a global fanbase stretching from Ireland to Japan, brazil to Spain, and Nigeria to the US.
Akano’s personal life is equally fulfilling.He met his wife, an Irish make-up artist and set designer, in 2009 while working on a show at Dublin’s Project Arts Centre. Together, they are raising three children, aged eight to 13, whom Akano introduces to his musical heritage in “a subtle way.” Reflecting on his journey, Akano believes fate played a role in bringing him to Ireland. He recalls a childhood encounter with an Irish priest in Lagos, which left a lasting impression. “That was the first time I heard of Ireland,” he says,chuckling at the memory.
Akano’s story is a testament to the transformative power of music and community. As he continues to lead the Yankari Afrobeat Collective, he remains committed to sharing the rich musical traditions of his homeland while building bridges across cultures.
| Key Highlights of Segun Akano’s Journey | |
|——————————————–|–|
| Arrival in Ireland | Aged 17, alone, from Nigeria |
| Early Challenges | Lived in Dún Laoghaire hostel, worked night shifts, studied engineering |
| Musical Career | Leader of Yankari Afrobeat collective, performed at TradFest |
| Personal Life | Married with three children, met wife at Dublin’s Project Arts Centre |
| Legacy | Blending Afrobeat with global rhythms, fostering cultural exchange |
For those inspired by Akano’s story, follow the Yankari Afrobeat Collective and experience their unique sound that transcends borders.
Segun Akano: A Journey of Music, Migration, and Community in Ireland
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- Segun Akano: A Journey of Music, Migration, and Community in Ireland
Segun Akano’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music. A Nigerian-born musician and engineer, Akano has found a home in Ireland, a country he describes as “destiny.” His journey, marked by cultural adaptation and artistic exploration, offers a poignant reflection on migration, community, and the universal language of rhythm.
From Nigeria to Ireland: A Cultural Awakening
When Akano first arrived in Ireland, he admits he didn’t fully grasp the country’s history or its distinction from the UK. “I thought Ireland was part of the UK,” he recalls. “I didn’t really understand the history.” This initial confusion was soon replaced by a deeper appreciation for his new home, thanks to the support of people like David Hicks, who ran the hostel where Akano stayed.
The hostel became a melting pot of cultures,hosting individuals from Ghana,Ethiopia,Sudan,Cameroon,and beyond.“People from all over Africa… became my support system,” Akano says. “They guided me when I didn’t really know what was going on.” This community not only helped him navigate life in Ireland but also reinforced his passion for music as a form of communication.
Music as a Universal Language
Akano’s musical journey is as diverse as his background. A multi-instrumentalist, he plays percussion instruments like bongos, djembe, wood-blocks, and the talking drum (gangan), and also the keyboard and bass. He is a founding member of several bands, including the Yankari Afrobeat Collective, Dublin Afrobeat Ensemble, and Selu and the Living Things. These groups blend afrobeat, jazz, and electronic music, creating a unique sound that bridges cultures.
“I’m a musician at heart, but I’m also an engineer,” Akano explains. for him, music and mathematics share a common thread—both are languages of precision and creativity. This duality has defined his career, balancing his work as a software test engineer and telecommunications professional with his passion for music.
Recently, Akano took a bold step by leaving his day job to focus on his artistic endeavors. he co-founded Orogun Media, a business aimed at empowering artists to monetize their content.The name, meaning “rival” in Yoruba, reflects his determination to challenge the status quo and create opportunities for fellow creatives.
While akano’s experiences in Ireland have been largely positive, he acknowledges the challenges faced by migrants. “One of the most generous nations in the world is Ireland, and my experiences have been good,” he says. “However, there’s been times that things have been tricky.”
He recalls an incident at a petrol station where he was told to “go back.” Yet, he views such moments as stemming from ignorance rather than malice. “They’re not saying it from a really bad place, they’re saying it from an uneducated place,” he reflects.
Akano’s viewpoint on migration is both personal and universal. “We are all migrants, aren’t we?” he asks. “People move from one place to another for one reason or the other, which they can’t control most of the time.” This understanding fuels his optimism and resilience, even in the face of adversity.
The Primal Power of Rhythm
For Akano, music transcends cultural boundaries. “Drumming is very primal, the first thing that connects us as humans,” he says. “Before any other thing, it’s just music and drumming and rhythm.” This belief underscores his work, which seeks to unite people through the universal language of sound.
As a performer at TradFest this month, Akano continues to share his music with Irish audiences, blending Nigerian rhythms with local influences. His story is a testament to the power of community, the resilience of migrants, and the unifying force of music.
Key Highlights of Segun Akano’s Journey
| aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Origin | Nigerian-born musician and engineer |
| Musical Projects | Yankari afrobeat Collective, Dublin Afrobeat Ensemble, Selu and the Living Things |
| Instruments | Bongos, djembe, talking drum (gangan), keyboard, bass |
| Career Shift | Left software engineering to co-found Orogun Media |
| Ideology | “We are all migrants… music connects us as humans.” |
Segun Akano’s story is a reminder of the strength found in diversity and the transformative power of art. As he continues to create and inspire, his journey serves as a beacon of hope for migrants and artists alike.
For more stories on migration and community in Ireland, explore this related article.Akano’s Journey: Bridging African Heritage and Irish Identity
In a world where identity is often tied to nationality, Akano’s story is a testament to the fluidity of belonging. Born in Nigeria, Akano now calls Ireland home, a place that has shaped his present while his roots remain firmly planted in his African heritage. “The future is the future.What’s important is right now,” he reflects, encapsulating the essence of his journey.
Akano’s life in Ireland began with opportunities that were unimaginable in Nigeria. “I’ve had educational and career opportunities here that would have been impossible—maybe one in a million chance—in Nigeria,” he shares. These opportunities not only transformed his life but also allowed him to support his family back home. “Thankfully, they are much more pleasant now. I think I’ve been able to assist them. I’m happy about that,” he says with pride.
Becoming an Irish citizen in 2013 was a pivotal moment for Akano. Yet, his connection to Nigeria remains strong. “Going back to Nigeria is just fantasy. What I know right now is my home is in Ireland, as much as in Nigeria. That heritage, I still have connections, people there. I am from there. But here established me.This is who I am today.”
Akano’s story is a blend of cultures, a dance between two worlds. he draws parallels between African and Irish tribes, noting how both cultures have historically found joy in communal activities. “During old times, when the people wanted to enjoy themselves or relax, they danced around a fire with some rhythm going on. And that’s it,” he explains, highlighting the universal nature of human connection.
For Akano, identity transcends borders. “While nationality is an identity, at the end of the day, we are all just humans on a spinning rock,” he muses. His perspective challenges conventional notions of belonging, emphasizing shared humanity over rigid labels.
Key Points of Akano’s Journey
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Heritage | Nigerian roots with strong cultural connections to African traditions. |
| Opportunities | Access to education and career in Ireland, which were unlikely in Nigeria.|
| Citizenship | Became an Irish citizen in 2013, embracing a dual identity. |
| Family Support | Improved the lives of his mother and sister in Nigeria through his efforts. |
| Philosophy | Believes in living in the present and cherishing shared humanity. |
Akano’s narrative is a powerful reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. His ability to thrive in a new surroundings while honoring his roots is a lesson in embracing change without losing oneself.
As we reflect on Akano’s journey, it’s clear that identity is not confined to geography. It’s a tapestry woven from experiences, connections, and the courage to build a life that bridges worlds. What does belonging mean to you? Share your thoughts and join the conversation about the evolving nature of identity in today’s globalized world.
African heritage.This duality is reflected in his music, which seamlessly blends Afrobeat rhythms with global influences, creating a sound that resonates across cultures.
Family and Community: The Heart of Akano’s Story
Akano’s personal life is as rich and vibrant as his musical career.Married with three children, he met his wife at Dublin’s Project Arts Center, a hub for creativity and artistic expression.This meeting place of cultures and ideas mirrors Akano’s own journey, where love and art intersect. His family is a cornerstone of his life, providing support and inspiration as he navigates the challenges and triumphs of his dual career as a musician and entrepreneur.
Legacy: Fostering Cultural Exchange Through Music
Akano’s legacy is one of cultural exchange and unity. Through his work with the Yankari Afrobeat Collective and other projects, he has introduced Irish audiences to the rich traditions of Afrobeat while incorporating local influences into his music. This fusion not only celebrates diversity but also fosters understanding and connection between communities.
For those inspired by Akano’s story, following the Yankari Afrobeat Collective offers a chance to experience their unique sound, which transcends borders and brings peopel together through the universal language of music.
Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope and Resilience
Segun Akano’s journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience and creativity that define the migrant experience. His ability to adapt, innovate, and connect through music serves as an inspiration to artists and communities worldwide. As he continues to create and share his art, Akano’s story stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to bridge divides and celebrate our shared humanity.
For more stories on migration, community, and the arts in Ireland, explore this related article.
