At just 14, Maman Bassirou Zabeirou Arji left his hometown in the Republic of Niger with nothing but courage and a deep sense of responsibility. Today, he lives in France as a trained electrician with a permanent employment contract, while steadily carving a name for himself in the music industry across Africa and Europe.
In this m interview, young Arji recounts his journey through hardship, survival and eventual self-fulfilment on a base of a brighter future.
Early life and the burden of responsibility
Born in the Agadez region of Niger, Arji grew up in a large family facing economic hardship and the struggle to survive the crunch. As a teenager, he began to sense that his family’s future might soon rest on his shoulders.
“Life was difficult,” he says. “I felt I had a responsibility to help my family before things became worse. Even though I was very young, I believed I had to take that bold step.”
That sense of duty pushed him to leave home in search of better opportunities in far away from home. At that young age, he was ready to face the unknown to be known.
A dangerous passage through the desert
His migration journey began with a perilous and risky journey across the Sahara desert into Libya. He took that risk without legal traveling documentation, he was arrested and detained shortly after arrival in Libya.
“In Libya, migrants without papers are often detained until they can pay for their freedom,” he explains. “I had no money and I was too young to handle heavy labour. The detention was harsh and painful. Some experiences are better left undescribed.”
While in detention, he was offered small jobs that allowed him to gradually save money. For about six months, he worked and saved carefully until he could finally secure his release by paying his way out with his savings.
Crossing the sea to Europe
Despite escaping the hurdles, Libya was never his final destination. Determined to continue, Arji attempted the dangerous Mediterranean crossing pattern to Italy.
“It wasn’t easy, but I felt I had no other option,” he recalls. “Many of us were on that boat. By God’s mercy, we made it to Italy though must of us have given up hope if surviving. Hunger, harsh water tides and huge water creatures threats became our companions through our our uncertain voyage.”
He spent about a year in Italy, using the time to understand the environment, make contacts and plan his next move. His ultimate goal was France, the young man never gave up. He knew he had an advantage of being young and as such he utilizes the opportunity and make good use of it.
He started making moves to get to France from Italy with ease and that he was able to attained. He got enrolled as an official immigrant seeking asylum formally. He made it safely to France.
Education and stability in France
After reaching France, Arji made education his top priority. He enrolled in a vocational training centre, where he studied electrical engineering for two years and earned a vocational baccalaureate (Bac Professionnel).
“That qualification changed everything,” he says. “It gave me stability.” He secured a permanent employment contract (CDI), which provided him legal status and financial security. With stability achieved, he turned fully toward his lifelong passion, which is music.
From dance floors to musical recognition
Arji’s artistic journey began not with singing, but dancing. He studied trends carefully and became known for his energetic dance steps before transitioning into what has been his dream, music.
He initially formed a group called Hausa Gang, but the group later disbanded as members pursued separate paths. Undeterred, he launched a solo project under the name “Baba One,” creating a personal music channel to express himself.
“I sing mainly in Hausa because I want to connect with my people, especially in West Africa,” he explains. “I also have songs in French, but Hausa is my core.”
Within three years, his music began gaining recognition among Hausa-speaking communities in Africa and across Europe.
Balancing career and creativity
Balancing a full-time job with a growing music career is no small task. Arji admits time management remains one of his biggest challenges.
“I mostly record and perform on weekends,” he says. “It’s not easy, but music is my passion. I keep pushing whenever I can.” I became known not only in France but also in all Hausa speaking communities across the globe.
I have looked up to artists like Mr 442 of Nigeria, Saadou Bouri of Niger among other artists that I have held so dare as mentors
A message to young people
Reflecting on his journey, Arji offers advice to young people back home. “Never give up on any good goal you set for yourself. The journey may be dangerous and difficult, but education, skills, patience and perseverance are key. Use every opportunity to build something meaningful.”
From the deserts of Niger Republic to the stages of Europe, Maman Bassirou Arji’s story stands as a testament to resilience, purpose and the power of passion.
