Unlocking Benue’s Potential: A Conversation on Success, Culture, and Spirituality with Slikish

In this episode, Kokeboi is joined by Slikish, a talented musician, artist, and songwriter. Together, they explore the challenges facing Benue State, particularly in business, entertainment, and cultural practices. The conversation is a mix of personal stories, cultural insights, and actionable advice for the youth of Benue to break free from barriers and achieve success.

1. The Hospitality Gap: A Barrier to Business Success

Kokeboi opens the discussion by highlighting the noticeable difference in hospitality and work ethic in Benue compared to other states. He shares his observations of staff behavior in eateries and businesses, noting a lack of professionalism and warmth that could drive customers away.

Key Point: Poor hospitality and work ethic in Benue businesses hinder growth and customer satisfaction.

Takeaway: Business owners and staff must prioritize professionalism to attract and retain customers.

2. Benue’s Hardworking Farmers: A Double-Edged Sword

Slikish defends the people of Benue, emphasizing their reputation as hardworking farmers who contribute significantly to Nigeria’s food supply. However, he acknowledges that this agricultural focus hasn’t translated into success in urban business settings.

Key Point: While Benue excels in agriculture, its people struggle to adapt to urban business practices.

Takeaway: There’s a need to diversify skills and embrace entrepreneurship beyond farming.

3. Cultural Differences in Business Practices

The conversation shifts to cultural comparisons, with Kokeboi and Slikish discussing how the Igbo’s business-minded culture and the South-South’s fishing industry contrast with Benue’s farming focus.

Key Point: Cultural differences impact business practices, with Benue lagging in urban entrepreneurship.

Takeaway: Benue’s youth must learn from other regions’ entrepreneurial spirit to drive economic growth.

4. The Untapped Potential of Benue’s Music Industry

Kokeboi points out the abundance of musical talent in Benue but laments the lack of artists achieving sustained success. Slikish shares his journey, highlighting the obstacles he faced, including spiritual attacks and societal discouragement.

Key Point: Benue has talent, but systemic barriers prevent artists from achieving mainstream success.

Takeaway: Young artists must persevere and seek opportunities beyond their immediate environment.

5. Spiritual Attacks and the Fight to Succeed

Slikish recounts a harrowing experience with spiritual attacks while studying in Yoruba land. A voice repeatedly told him he would fail, leading to a loss of confidence and further challenges.

Key Point: Spiritual attacks can derail dreams and ambitions, but resilience is key to overcoming them.

Takeaway: Mental strength and a supportive community are crucial for overcoming adversity.

6. The Dark Side of Juju and Diabolic Practices

Slikish sheds light on the negative use of juju and witchcraft in Benue, explaining how these practices are often used to sabotage others rather than empower them.

Key Point: Harmful spiritual practices stifle progress and success in Benue.

Takeaway: The youth must challenge and reform these practices to create a positive environment.

7. A Call to Action: Challenging Harmful Traditions

Slikish urges the youth to speak up against harmful spiritual practices and have tough conversations with their elders. He believes that traditional practices should be used positively, not as tools for destruction.

Key Point: Change begins with confronting harmful traditions and advocating for positive cultural practices.

Takeaway: The youth must take the lead in reshaping Benue’s cultural and spiritual landscape.

8. Slikish’s Journey: From Struggle to Strength

In a bold move, Slikish decided to distance himself from the Tiv identity to escape the negative spiritual influences holding him back. His story is one of resilience and determination.

Key Point: Personal identity and spiritual beliefs can shape one’s journey to success.

Takeaway: Sometimes, breaking away from negative influences is necessary for growth.

9. Looking Ahead: New Music and Motivation

Slikish announces his upcoming single, A Must, featuring a Tanzanian artist. The song, set to release on January 19, is designed to motivate and energize listeners for the new year.

Key Point: Music can be a powerful tool for inspiration and change.

Takeaway: Support local artists and embrace their work as a source of motivation.

Kokeboi and Slikish conclude the episode with a message of hope. They encourage listeners to take action, challenge harmful traditions, and support one another in the pursuit of success.

Key Point: Change starts with individuals taking responsibility and working together.

Takeaway: Benue’s youth have the power to transform their state and create a brighter future.

Actionable Steps for Listeners

Improve Work Ethic: Business owners and staff in Benue must prioritize professionalism and hospitality to attract customers.

Diversify Skills: Embrace entrepreneurship and learn from other regions’ business practices.

Support Local Talent: Encourage and uplift Benue’s artists and musicians to achieve mainstream success.

Challenge Harmful Practices: Speak up against negative juju and witchcraft in your community.

Stay Resilient: Overcome spiritual and societal barriers with determination and a strong support system.

Promote Positive Change: Lead conversations with elders to reform harmful traditions.

Celebrate Success: Support Slikish’s new single, A Must, and let it inspire you for the new year.

This blog post captures the key points and actionable insights from Kokeboi and Slikish’s conversation on the Goodliving Podcast. It’s a call to action for the youth of Benue to rise above cultural and spiritual barriers, challenge harmful practices, and create a brighter future. Let’s work together to unlock the potential of Benue State and its people.