Discover the inspiring story of Segun Akano, a Nigerian musician in Ireland, whose journey of resilience and cultural integration bridges two worlds through music and community.
From Lagos to Dublin: A Journey of Resilience and Hope
At just 17 years old, Segun Akano embarked on a life-changing journey from Nigeria to Ireland, carrying nothing but dreams and determination. With no prior knowledge of the country or its people, Segun’s story is a testament to resilience, cultural integration, and the power of music.
Starting Afresh in an Unknown Land
Segun’s transition to Ireland was not an easy one. Initially, he arrived in London but soon moved to Ireland through a series of chance encounters. Alone and terrified, Segun’s singular focus was on education. “I just wanted to go to school,” he recalls.
He sought asylum and lived for over three years at the Old Schoolhouse hostel in Dún Laoghaire. During this time, he completed his Leaving Certificate at St Laurence College, Loughlinstown, and pursued engineering studies at IT Tallaght. To support himself, he worked night shifts at a petrol station while trekking to Naas every Sunday to play music for Pentecostal church services.
Challenges and the Role of Community
Life as an asylum seeker came with its share of challenges. Segun faced societal and systemic hurdles but found solace and support in communities around him. Organizations like the Dún Laoghaire Refugee Project, led by Mary King and Rita Canavan, and individuals like David Hicks, Ed and Doriel Molloy, played pivotal roles in his life.
Segun also immersed himself in theater and music, performing with Bisi Adigun of Arambe Productions. These creative outlets not only kept him engaged but also helped him contribute meaningfully to Irish society.
In 2008, his asylum application was denied, but he received leave to remain on humanitarian grounds. He later became an Irish citizen in 2013.
Music: A Bridge Between Cultures
Despite his technical background, music remained central to Segun’s life. He is a multi-instrumentalist, playing percussion instruments like bongos, djembe, and talking drum, as well as keyboards and bass guitar.
Segun is the musical director of the Yankari Afrobeat Collective, a 13-member band blending Afrobeat, jazz, and electronic music. The group will perform at the Button Factory as part of TradFest on January 24th.
For Segun, music is more than entertainment—it’s a primal connection that unites people. “Drumming is the first thing that connects us as humans. It’s primal, a rhythm that transcends culture,” he shares.
The Journey Comes Full Circle
Reflecting on his life, Segun attributes much of his success to Ireland’s generosity and the kindness of its people. However, he acknowledges that challenges remain for migrants, including instances of prejudice. “We are all migrants,” he says, emphasizing the need for understanding and compassion.
Today, Segun is not just a musician but also an entrepreneur. He co-founded Orogun Media, a company supporting artists in monetizing their content. This dual identity as a musician and engineer reflects his belief in merging creativity with technical expertise.
A Message of Hope and Gratitude
Now married to an Irish set designer, with three children aged 8 to 13, Segun ensures his kids stay connected to their Nigerian heritage through music. While Ireland is now home, his ties to Nigeria remain strong. “Here established me. This is who I am today,” he says.
Segun’s journey from Lagos to Dublin is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s ability to adapt, thrive, and build bridges across cultures. As he continues to inspire through his music and life story, Segun Akano embodies the essence of resilience, creativity, and hope.
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