How I use comedy as a vehicle for activism in Nigeria

25-year-old, Maryam, also known as Nigerian influencer and comedian, Taaooma writes about how she uses her visibility to bring attention to important issues affecting girls in Nigeria, from domestic violence to access to education access.

I always had a fondness for props, lighting, and cameras; but I never envisioned or aspired to be a comedian. However, your life or career may be altered in the blink of an eye. Everything began during my collegiate years when I met Abdulazeez, who’s now my spouse and a music video director. 

My sole aspiration was to learn the skills to succeed as a cinematographer. I wanted to possess the ability to capture videos, edit them with my prowess and unique taste, and command admiration as an exceptional video editor. 

Eventually, I reached the stage where I needed to practice editing independently. Working towards a video was becoming increasingly challenging — it was difficult to find people to act in front of the camera.  As time was running out, I turned the camera on myself and the rest was history. When I uploaded the video to my social media accounts, people commented, "Wow, this girl is hilarious” or “this girl is a genius!" 

I wanted to be known as a skilled video editor, not for how funny I was, but this newfound talent sparked my interest. 

Comedy has served as an effective vehicle for activism. I function within the context of my family, which includes my mother, father, brother, uncle, our neighbour, family friend, and myself. It is disappointing that no one wants to hear anything about activism, but I can soften the blow with comedy so that viewers will laugh and reconsider the message conveyed.

A video I produced addressed the issue of domestic violence and the reluctance of those who have experienced it to speak out due to social pressure. I strategically crafted the video about a person who was being abused by her husband and decided not to speak, but a close friend reported the incident. This resonated with a lot of people, especially those who observe domestic violence but choose to ignore it, believing it is none of their concern. After watching the video, they realized that speaking out is beneficial and, at times, can be life-saving.

“It is crucial that girls passionate about education and gender equality in Nigeria and around the world see someone like me —  a talented, young, ambitious, videographer and comedian — in a male-dominated environment succeed”

— Taaooma

My social media following began to grow and by 21, I was enrolled in school, and I was still pursuing content creation. After sharing my journey, I received an abundance of support from women via emails and direct messages. This signifies Taaooma. 

I am fifteen, sixteen, and twenty years old all at once, reflecting the experiences of young women across Nigeria. Your encouragement to accomplish more for myself is what drives me. It is crucial that girls passionate about education and gender equality in Nigeria and around the world see someone like me —  a talented, young, ambitious, videographer and comedian — in a male-dominated environment succeed.