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Portable mentioned that proficiency in English is not mandatory for obtaining a visa, sharing insights from his travels to the UK and Canada.
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He explained his journey through navigating visa procedures despite lacking strong English skills, highlighting that determination holds greater importance than linguistic ability.
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The singer’s comments ignited discussions on social media platforms as supporters pondered over the genuine difficulties faced by Nigerians when trying to acquire international visas.
Habeeb Okikiola, widely recognized as Portable, the Nigerian street-pop artist, caused quite a stir when he made surprising revelations during an interview with Quincy Jonze on “Echo Room,” which was broadcasted on April 1, 2025.
In a widely shared video, the singer behind Zazu proclaimed, “You don’t need English to obtain a visa,” a sentiment that struck a chord with numerous Nigerians who have experienced the challenges of getting visas.
Portatile, known for his characteristic style, recounted his adventures traveling to the UK and Canada even though he wasn’t proficient in English. His stories generated laughs as well as meaningful discussions among his audience online.
During the Echo Room interview, Portable appeared wearing a patterned shirt and gesticulated enthusiastically while talking.
The video snippet featuring the Echo Room branding shows him stating, “Tell me something different; you ought to talk Yoruba just as I am doing,” humorously addressing the notion that flawless English is essential for global trips. In explaining his visa acquisitions for various performances, such as an earlier tour of Canada and a recent collaboration with British artist Skepta during his stay in the United Kingdom, he shed light on these experiences.
His message was straightforward: determination and strategy surpass language abilities when it comes to maneuvering through visa procedures.
Audiences on X responded with a blend of entertainment and approval, with several noting his candor as a wake-up call for individuals pursuing prospects overseas.
The discussion about Portable’s visa was not the sole standout moment from the interview. Another segment revealed his dissatisfaction with YBNL head honcho Olamide, acknowledging that although Olamide helped launch Zazu Zeh, he felt neglected as Olamide did not provide sufficient support, stating, “He didn’t take me under his wing.”
He similarly commended Skepta for turning his life around. During a more relaxed interlude, Portable subtly criticized Asake by pointing out that the artist from YBNL had imitated his dance steps and opted for bulkier costumes, all while insisting on headlining an event at the O2 Arena. Delivered with his characteristic wit, these remarks amused spectators, who affectionately labeled him as “baba werey” due to his playful behavior.
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Reactions from fans regarding Portable’s assertions about his command of the English language
SANGGRALOKA.ng
collected some feedback from online users.
@supercarsofnigeria said:
Set aside your preconceptions about portability; this interview lasts for 1 hour and 44 minutes, yet I managed to watch it entirely. It turns out that Portable is remarkably clever.
@king_fraga said:
I simply enjoy how he boasts about his wealth. Lol you might think he and Dangote belong in the same category. 😂😂😂
@ezeqwesiri replied
He is correct about this… You wouldn’t require or expect English proficiency from someone from China, Russia, or France as part of their visa criteria. Simply focus on being intelligent and trustworthy; most crucially, ensure you have substantial funds 💰.
@bie.ola said:
It was Portablebaby who interviewed the host! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
@ajokealadire_abela.2 commented:
This host really likes to provoke people into talking more 😂😂😂 KUDUSS to the host; he will likely continue pulling your leg soon.
He gives his father a car as a gift.
Previously, SANGGRALOKA.ng reported about Portable gifting his father a car and capturing the touching moment in a widely shared video.
Audiences commended his dedication to family, deeming it a touching highlight of his success story.
The action demonstrated Portable’s strong connection to reality even with his widespread recognition.