RismadarVoice Reporters
October 22, 2026
Nigerian Afrobeats star Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has explained why he deliberately avoids displaying his wealth and luxurious lifestyle on social media, saying he does not want to place unnecessary pressure on young people who admire his success.
The 26-year-old singer disclosed this during an interview with Jam FM, where he discussed the influence of celebrities on young people and the growing pressure to achieve financial success at an early age.
According to Rema, many young people see successful entertainers as role models and sometimes feel compelled to attain similar levels of wealth and recognition without considering their individual circumstances.
He explained that his decision to maintain a relatively private lifestyle was influenced by his awareness of the expectations that accompany fame.
The Calm Down hitmaker said he was particularly concerned about young people who might feel inadequate when comparing their achievements with those of celebrities of a similar age.
Rema emphasised that everyone has a different journey towards success and should not feel pressured to rush their personal development because of another person’s accomplishments.
The singer acknowledged that some people had advised him not to worry about how others interpreted his lifestyle, but maintained that he preferred to exercise caution when displaying material possessions.
He explained that his decision was not necessarily about avoiding luxury but about reducing the possibility of unintentionally encouraging unhealthy competition among young people.
Beyond social media, Rema also criticised the pressure some parents place on their children through constant comparisons with others.
He observed that parental expectations sometimes influence young people’s educational and career choices, particularly when families insist on professions they believe will provide greater financial rewards.
According to him, some students pursue courses they have little interest in because their parents prioritise earning potential over personal passion.
Rema maintained that young people should be given opportunities to develop their abilities and pursue their ambitions without unnecessary comparisons.
Discussing his fashion preferences, the singer said he generally favoured casual streetwear rather than regularly displaying expensive designer clothing.
He nevertheless acknowledged owning luxurious jewellery and watches, explaining that these were among the more extravagant aspects of his personal style.
The singer’s remarks highlight his views on the relationship between celebrity culture, social media and the expectations facing young people.
Rema, who rose to international prominence through songs including Dumebi and Calm Down, has previously spoken about the importance of maintaining his individuality despite his growing fame.
He maintained that his preference for a less publicly extravagant lifestyle was partly intended to encourage young people to pursue success at their own pace.
