In a world where migration often blurs the ties between people and their heritage, United Kingdom-based Nigerian songwriter and culture ambassador Michael Ogunbayo, popularly known as DJ Mykejay, is leading a movement to keep African culture alive among Africans abroad. His mission is to ensure that even far from home, Africans remain rooted in their traditions and pass them on to the next generation.
For DJ Mykejay, the drive comes from a realisation that while African cultures are increasingly being taught and appreciated in schools across Europe, many Africans in the diaspora are failing to teach their own children the values, languages and traditions of their heritage. He believes this disconnect poses a risk to the continuity of cultural identity, especially among younger generations.
“The culture that we are distancing ourselves from is what our hosts here are aiming to learn from us,” he explained. “Many of them know more about Nigerian culture than those who share the blood but are based in the UK. We all need to ensure that the public knows where we are from, and this is our culture.”
To address this, DJ Mykejay has turned to music and cultural events as powerful tools for advocacy. From festivals like the Amala Festival and New Yam Festival to his own performances, he consistently uses his platform to highlight African traditions. His songs, often blending Yoruba and English, are inspired by his daily experiences and are crafted to keep African stories, languages and values alive in creative ways.
He emphasised that his goal is not only to celebrate the culture but also to create opportunities for younger Nigerian artists to gain global recognition. Through his company, Mykejay Entertainment, he has discovered and promoted talents, helping them reach wider audiences. Looking ahead, he envisions hosting one of the largest African festivals in the UK within the next five years, creating a global stage for both established and upcoming artists.
“I do not want it to be Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Tems alone,” he said. “I want many Nigerian young artists to also have access to global platforms that will allow them to showcase their God-given talents.”
With his passion, advocacy, and commitment to culture, DJ Mykejay is shaping a future where African traditions remain strong, visible, and celebrated across continents.
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