Akon Pays Tribute to Michael Jackson, Claims Nigerians Are the Most Intelligent People on Earth

Senegalese‑American singer Akon has expressed great admiration for the late pop icon Michael Jackson.

In a recent episode of the We Need To Talk podcast, Akon called his collaboration with Jackson the “proudest moment” of his career.

The “Oh Africa” singer added that he feels “a child” compared to Jackson.

“My photo with Michael Jackson is my most proudest photo. I was already a full‑blown celebrity at the point the photo was taken. But I am a child compared to this man (Michael Jackson).”

“I was so happy because I grew up looking up to him. He is like everybody’s idol,” he said.

The 53‑year‑old musician also discussed his support for African music, noting that he once signed Nigerian Afrobeats artists, including P‑Square and Wizkid.

He clarified that he did not sign Wizkid directly but did so through his involvement with Banky W’s Empire Mate Entertainment, where Wizkid was signed.

“Nigerians are the most intelligent people on the planet. They have done amazingly well with Afrobeats,” he added.