Qing Madi, the Nigerian singer, has spoken out against the pervasive double standards and “lack of protection for women” within the country’s entertainment industry.

In a recent interview on Wahala podcast, the 19-year-old songwriter expressed her belief that the sector fundamentally fails to support and respect female artistes. 

She argued that women are held to a drastically different standard than their male counterparts, facing undue criticism for everything from their fashion choices to their personal conduct.

“I think the (entertainment) industry is not the best for women in terms of protecting women, loving women in general. I really do believe that,” she said. 

“Women have to do twice as much work as their male counterparts. Women are oftentimes criticised for nothing. You dress too little; you dress too much. People shade any woman for any issue. 

“But they do not do that to the men. The men have the right to do whatever they like, but for the women, society just wants to box them so much.

“I go through that, which is crazy. Because I am 19. So what do you want me to do? Women never get a break. So I am super proud of being a female artiste in Nigeria. And I am super proud of every female artiste in Nigeria because it takes a lot. It is not easy.”

Born Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, Madi began her career at a young age by performing in school talent shows. She was also in her church choir.

The Delta state indigene started to gain popularity after the release of ‘See Finish’, her hit single, in 2022.

In 2023, she released hit songs ‘Ole’ featuring BNXN and ‘American Love’. She also put out her self-titled extended play (EP) that same year.

Madi has also worked with big names in the industry such as Kizz Daniel, Joeboy, and Chloe Bailey, the American songstress.

She released her debut album ‘I Am The Blueprint’ in January.