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Tag: Davido

  • Five years of Spotify in Nigeria: the growth story behind what listeners put on repeat

    Five years of Spotify in Nigeria: the growth story behind what listeners put on repeat

    In February 2021, Spotify arrived in Nigeria. Five years later, the way Nigerians listen, discover, and champion homegrown sounds has accelerated fast.

    Here are a few of the trends that tell the story.

    The big picture: listening keeps compounding

    Nigeria’s year-on-year listening growth has climbed dramatically since launch, with triple-digit surges in the early years and continued momentum through 2025 with an average growth rate of 163.5%.

    The culture engine: Afrobeats growth leads the way

    Afrobeats is not just thriving, it is scaling at extraordinary speed. From 2021 to 2025, Afrobeats streams in Nigeria grew by +5,022%.

    And the wider mix of sounds Nigerians love is expanding too:

    • Amapiano: +10,330% 
    • Gospel/Praise: +5,499% 
    • Hip-hop/Rap: +3,020% 
    • R&B: +2,602% 

    Local languages, turned up

    Listening to music in Nigerian indigenous languages is rising sharply, both inside Nigeria and beyond, signalling a growing appetite for local-language storytelling and sound.

    In Nigeria, indigenous-language listening saw major jumps including +554% in 2024 and +87% in 2025. Globally, indigenous-language listening growth also spiked, including +141% in 2024 and +41% in 2025.

    The very first song ever streamed in Nigeria

    The first track streamed in Nigeria at launch was:

    A reminder that from the very first moment, listening in Nigeria has been borderless: curious, eclectic, and always open to discovery.

    Nigeria’s most-streamed artists over the last five years

    Across five years of listening in Nigeria, these are the artists who have dominated the speakers:

    1. Asake
    2. Wizkid
    3. Seyi Vibez
    4. Burna Boy
    5. Davido

    Nigeria’s most-streamed songs over the last five years

    And these are the tracks that Nigerians have returned to again and again:

    1. “Remember” – Asake
    2. “Dealer” – Ayo Maff, Fireboy DML
    3. “Awolowo” – Fido
    4. “Kese (Dance)” – Wizkid
    5. “Lonely At The Top” – Asake
    6. “Joy is Coming” – Fido
    7. “With You (feat. Omah Lay)” – Davido, Omah Lay
    8. “Terminator” – Asake
    9. “MMS” – Asake, Wizkid
    10. “Doha” – Seyi Vibez

    More Nigerian artists to discover

    The number of Nigerian artists on Spotify has grown +158% since launch, reflecting an expanding pipeline of local creators reaching audiences at home and around the world.

    Five years, millions of playlists, and serious listening time

    Over the past five years, Nigerians have created over 25million user-generated playlists on Spotify.

    And listening time is massive: in 2025 alone, Nigeria clocked over 1.4million play hours on Spotify. Podcast listening is growing too, with over 59 billion total podcast hours streamed since launch.

    What Nigerian listeners are doing differently

    As the catalogue grows, so does discovery: in the most recent months the average listener in Nigeria streamed 150 different artists. Nigeria’s average listener age is 26, pointing to a young, digitally native audience shaping culture in real time.

  • CNN’s Marketplace Africa speaks to the Chairman of Access Bank

    CNN’s Marketplace Africa speaks to the Chairman of Access Bank

    In new episode of CNN’s Marketplace Africa, Zain Asher heads to Lagos for an exclusive look at Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede’s private art collection, some of which will be displayed at an upcoming exhibit at the Tate Modern in London. She sits down with the Chairman of Access Bank Holdings to talk about the importance of Nigeria’s creative capital and why he believes economic growth and international recognition goes hand in hand with championing art on the continent and abroad.

    Aig-Imoukhuede begins the conversation by discussing the general underappreciation of African art, “You need infrastructure to support its promotion. Davido can’t play a concert to 50,000 Nigerians without an arena to do it. Artists cannot be bought unless you have museums and galleries that show them. Things are changing from the private sector standpoint, and things are changing even from a public sector standpoint, but not fast enough at all. The art you see around was very deliberately curated by me to show how much contemporary African artists are coming to the fore.”

    The chairman furthers this point on the advancement of African artists by walking Asher through the strategy for ensuring Lagos can become an international art hub. He says, “The idea is that we will make Lagos an ecosystem where finance, technology, and culture merge. And of course, sports, entertainment and what have you, and be very intentional about creating an annual calendar of events for Lagos.”

    Asher asks Aig-Imoukhuede what he thinks about the narrative around African art, to which he explains, “The world and the global citizen is denationalising, moving towards certain genres and certain things that make them comfortable, whether it’s colour, whether it’s material, whether it’s style, and so on. And we must be ready to live with that. So, I don’t know of any artists that I have seen become more or less Nigerian because of the market. But I have seen a lot of artists cater to what is happening and what is trending. If what is happening and what is trending is less African, then it means that we have to do more to make what is happening more African.”

    With the Tate in London hosting a Nigerian modernism exhibition, Asher asks about the role Nigeria has played specifically, compared to other African countries, in terms of elevating African art. Aig-Imoukhuede says, “1 out of every 4 black Africans is Nigerian. So, the population reality is one that we cannot run from. Our population reality is such that there are so many of us that we have to show up because we do. And because we are so visible at every turn, I think we bear the burden for Africa to be a special kind of African.”

    Asher and Aig-Imoukhuede end the interview by discussing the need for investment in art and what this looks like in Africa. He explains, “Art is strange in the sense that for many items, the weaker your currency is, the more exportable it becomes. Your value is assessed, not in local currency, but by a universal currency. And if therefore your art is described as a $10,000 piece, the problem is that if $10,000 in local currency means more, in other words, if currencies are devaluing, the artist wants to hold their global value. It means that art becomes more and more expensive. And I think that Africa has had over the last 10 years challenges with currencies. Many currencies are weakened, etc. and I think it’s affected the art world as a result.”

    These interviews were featured on the latest episode of Marketplace Africa on CNN International.

    https://edition.cnn.com/business/marketplace-africa
  • Infinix Launches Exciting “Make A Wish Worth N10 Million” Christmas Promo with Brand Ambassador – Davido

    Infinix Launches Exciting “Make A Wish Worth N10 Million” Christmas Promo with Brand Ambassador – Davido

    Infinix Nigeria has launched its biggest festive campaign yet, the Infinix X Davido ‘Make A Wish’ Christmas Promo, running from December 10th to January 4th, 2025. The nationwide promotion gives customers the chance to win instant gifts and select a dream wish worth up to ₦10 million.”

    The festive campaign invites customers to purchase any Infinix device for a chance to receive instant gifts and scan a wish QR code that could bring their holiday dreams to life. This year’s grand prize allows lucky winners to choose a personal “surprise wish” valued at

    ₦10 million, including a business grant, holiday vacation for two, house renovation, house rent support, or even a car, all fulfilled by Infinix’s special Christmas Santa.

    Participation in the promo is open to customers nationwide.

    How to Participate:

    1. Purchase any Infinix smartphone from authorised retail stores nationwide.
    2. Receive an instant gift at the point of purchase.
    3. Scan the QR code provided by the sales representative.
    4. Complete your details and select the wish you’d love to win.
    5. Follow @InfinixNigeria to watch the live draw and see if you’ve won.

    Beyond the grand prize, participants also stand a chance to win additional rewards, including electric scooters, branded merchandise, and food items distributed instantly at the point of purchase.

    Davido Leads the Flagship Store Experience

    As part of the campaign, Infinix has also introduced a special activation with brand ambassador Davido, at the Infinix Flagship Store, Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja. From December 6th to 14th, customers who purchase any Infinix smartphone at the Infinix Flagship Store, Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja, will receive an exclusive ‘Xmas Scratch & Win’ coupon. Prizes include a 43-inch TV, rechargeable fans, air fryers, and other premium gifts.

    Winners will also get the special opportunity to meet brand ambassador Davido during the flagship store meet-and-greet on December 14th.”

    Speaking on the Infinix christmas promo, Oluwayemisi Ode, Integrated Marketing Communications & PR Manager at Infinix Nigeria, said: “Christmas is a season of hope, and we wanted to do more than give discounts this year, we wanted to make real wishes come true. With the Infinix X Davido ‘Make A Wish’ promo, we are giving our customers the freedom to dream and the opportunity to see those dreams fulfilled. Whether it’s starting a business, supporting their family, or enjoying a well-deserved break, we’re proud to be the brand turning those personal wishes into reality this festive season.”

    With nationwide participation and an exciting lineup of high-value prizes, the Infinix Christmas Promo is set to make this festive season truly unforgettable for customers across Nigeria.

  • Spotify Wrapped 2025: Breakout Voices Redraw Nigeria’s Soundscape

    Spotify Wrapped 2025: Breakout Voices Redraw Nigeria’s Soundscape

    Spotify’s Wrapped 2025 data for Nigeria is out, and it confirms a shift at the very heart of the country’s sound. Nigeria’s breakout voices aren’t just joining the conversation, they’re stepping up as sonic pioneers, pushing boundaries and shaping where the nation’s music culture goes next.

    New voices defining the vibe

    This year’s Top 10 most-streamed songs list made one thing clear: fresh talent is front and centre. Four major breakout acts, Fido, Kunmie, Faceless, and FOLA, carved out serious space at the top of the charts.

    • Fido led the wave of newcomers with his viral anthem Joy is Coming, which landed at #2
    • Kunmie’s breakout debut Arike followed at #3
    • Faceless took the #4 spot with Venus
    • Spotify RADAR artist FOLA claimed #6 with Lost

    Their presence in the charts shows that new voices aren’t just participating, they’re actively recalibrating the vibe and driving what’s next in Nigerian music.

    This newcomer energy was matched by the consistency of established stars. The most-streamed song in Nigeria in 2025 was With You (feat. Omah Lay), which dominated national charts and soundtracked moments across the country.

    On the albums front, the momentum continued:

    Meanwhile, Asake showcased remarkable catalogue depth, charting three albums within the top 10, underscoring just how deeply his sound resonates with Nigerian listeners.

    Local love and the dominance of homegrown talent

    Across categories, Nigerian listeners once again proved their unwavering loyalty to homegrown artists.

    Wizkid led the Top 5 most-streamed artists in Nigeria, a homegrown-heavy list that also included Seyi Vibez, Asake, Burna Boy, and Odumodublvck. Together, they reflect the range of contemporary Nigerian sounds, from street-inflected anthems to global festival headliners.

    On the women’s side, Ayra Starr held onto her title as the most-streamed woman in Nigeria. Other names in the Top 10 most-streamed women artists included Tems, Smur Lee, Tiwa Savage, and Sunmisola.

    • Smur Lee’s swift rise appears to be fuelled by high-profile collaborations blending street-hop with Amapiano textures.
    • Sunmisola’s presence in the rankings underlines the deep and enduring love Nigerians have for gospel music, and the way faith-infused sounds sit comfortably alongside Afrobeats on listeners’ playlists.

    Nigeria to the world: exported sounds and global impact

    On the global stage, Nigerian artists continued to lead and expand the country’s sonic footprint.

    Burna Boy topped the most-exported artists list, followed by Tems (2nd), Rema (3rd), Ayra Starr (4th), and WizKid (5th).

    Rema’s chart-dominating collaboration Calm Down (with Selena Gomez) held its ground as the most-exported local song for the third consecutive year, proving the long-tail power of a global hit rooted in Nigerian rhythm.

    The spiritual dimension of Nigeria’s digital life

    Beyond music, Nigerians are listening to podcasts more with a 97% year-on-year growth in hours spent listening to podcasts in the country. Podcast creation has also seen significant growth of 48%, with more people creating podcasts in the country. The year 2025 revealed a clear spiritual dimension to this trend, as the top-streamed podcasts point to a strong and consistent appetite for faith- and spirituality-led content, with listeners turning to digital audio for guidance, reflection, and community as part of their daily routines. 

    Nigeria’s listening habits in 2025

    A few key numbers capture how Nigerians listened this year:

    • Nigerians spent more than 1.3 billion hours on Spotify in 2025, and that time has increasingly gone into championing a new wave of homegrown talent
    • Local music consumption rose by 82% over the past year
    • Afrobeats listening grew by 22% globally, further cementing its status as a world-shaping genre
    • Davido’s “With You” (feat. Omah Lay) was the most-shared song on social platforms, propelled by star power, cultural relevance, and an inherently viral-friendly sound
    • Daily streams grew by 23%, demonstrating that music is a part of Nigerians’ daily routines
    • Spotify’s new Listening Age data in this year’s Wrapped experience shows that Nigeria’s average listening age sits at 25 years old

    As Wrapped 2025 rolls out, listeners across Nigeria can now dive into their own stories, from breakout anthems to spiritual podcasts, and see exactly how they helped define the country’s audio landscape this year.

    “Nigeria’s 2025 Wrapped paints a picture of a music scene that is absolutely thriving. It’s incredible to see how fast Nigerians embrace fresh voices right alongside the legends,” says Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa

  • 2025 Year in Search: Google Reveals the Moments, Music, and Movements That Captivated Nigeria

    2025 Year in Search: Google Reveals the Moments, Music, and Movements That Captivated Nigeria

    • The nation paused to reflect on the passing of major icons, including former President Buhari and Super Eagles legend Peter Rufai.
    • Local film and music dominate, while Nigerians turn to Google to decode viral slang and explore new culinary frontiers.

     From major political shifts to the viral ‘Labubu’ craze, Nigerians turned to Google Search in 2025 to make sense of a year packed with big questions and even bigger cultural moments. Today, Google’s annual Year in Search lists offer a fascinating digital snapshot of the nation’s curiosity, revealing a country deeply engaged with its leaders, its artists, and the icons who shaped its history.

    Politics and People Take Center Stage 

    This year, Nigerians used Search to stay on top of a fast-moving news cycle. High-profile figures drove significant interest, with Senator Natasha Akpoti emerging as the #1 most searched Nigerian personality, highlighting how central political discourse was throughout the year. Beyond the domestic scene, Nigerians also kept a close watch on international events, with the Israel-Iran War and the US Elections featuring heavily in search trends.

    The nation also paused to honor the legacies of titans who left a lasting mark. The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari triggered a massive wave of searches, as people looked back on his tenure. In the sporting world, fans bid a solemn farewell to Peter Rufai, the iconic former Super Eagles goalkeeper, revisiting career highlights and his contributions to the national team. Search interest also grew around the passing of Pope Francis, marking a moment of reflection for many.

    The Sounds and Stories of Nigeria

    Entertainment in 2025 was undeniably Nigerian-led. The Trending Songs list shows a nation seeking both spiritual upliftment and high-energy Afrobeats. The gospel resonance of ‘Oluwatosin (Jesus Is Enough)’ by Tkeyz ft. Steve Hills topped the charts, balanced by the infectious energy of ‘Joy is Coming’ by Fido and major collaborations like Davido and Omah Lay’s ‘With You.’

    Local pride surged in the film industry as well. Director Kemi Adetiba ranked among the most searched personalities, driven by the success of the hit show To Kill a Monkey, which stood out as the most searched local series.

    Decoding Culture, from Slang to the Kitchen 

    The most colorful insights come from how Nigerians interacted with internet culture. In 2025, Search became the go-to tool for decoding viral trends. The questions list was dominated by people asking, “What is Labubu?”, while the meaning of “Achalugo”, popularized by the YouTube film Love in Every Word, also sent people searching.

    In the kitchen, local palates grew more adventurous. Nigerians turned to Google for recipes ranging from the staple Chinchin to the trending Pornstar Martini and health-focused Ginger Shots, blending traditional tastes with global trends.

    “The 2025 Year in Search is more than just data; it’s a vibrant, unfiltered mirror of our collective attention,” said Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications & Public Affairs Manager for West Africa. “Whether it’s tracking the biggest headlines, reflecting on the legacies of icons we lost, or simply figuring out the latest slang, these lists show that Nigerians are using Search to actively engage with the world around them.”

    You can explore the complete 2025 Year in Search lists for Nigeria on the official Google Trends site: https://trends.withgoogle.com/year-in-search/2025/ng/

  • AFRIMA Releases 2025 nominations As Shallipopi, Moliy, Ayra Star, Jux, Himra, Davido, El Grande Toto, Rema, Fally Ipupa, Others make list

    AFRIMA Releases 2025 nominations As Shallipopi, Moliy, Ayra Star, Jux, Himra, Davido, El Grande Toto, Rema, Fally Ipupa, Others make list

    …voting starts on September 10

    The competition promises to be fiercer than ever, with Africa’s heavyweight stars like Davido, Burna Boy, El Grande Toto, Amr Diab, Fally Ipupa, Rema, and DJ Maphorisa now facing strong challenges from rising sensations such as Shallipopi, Himra, Molly, Ayra Starr, Juma Jux and Mia Guissé as the International Committee of the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), unveiled the Official Nominees List for the 2025 edition.

    This year’s nominations followed a record-breaking 10,717 entries, the highest since the inception of AFRIMA 12 years ago. A 13-member International Jury, after 10 days of adjudication, shortlisted 343 nominees across 40 categories, representing Africa’s five regions and the diaspora.

    The International Committee of AFRIMA confirmed that public voting will open globally on September 10, 2025, via the official AFRIMA website (www.afrima.org). Music lovers across Africa and the diaspora will be able to participate in determining the winners in the various categories. Voting will close on the eve of the main awards on November 30.

    Nigeria’s Burna Boy and Davido both secured five nominations each. Burna Boy’s album No Sign of Weakness and Davido’s 5ive were both nominated for Album of the Year, while their hit singles also earned them spots in Song of the Year and Best Collaboration.

    South Africa’s DJ Maphorisa matched them with five nods, including Best African DJ and Album of the Year. Morocco’s rap star El Grande Toto also secured five nominations, with his album Salgoat and hit Diplomatico catching global attention.

    Nigeria’s fast-rising street-pop sensation Shallipopi also stood tall with four nominations, including Artiste of the Year and Song of the Year for his collaboration Laho.

    Senegal’s Mia Guissé and Ghana’s Moliy joined the top bracket with five nominations each, proving that female acts are now commanding major influence on the continent’s music stage.

    One of the best-selling artists in the whole of the Middle East, Egypt’s Amr Diab scooped four nominations, just as Côte d’Ivoire’s Himra picked up three nominations, including Album of the Year. His album Big Aka 4 Aka Kai and hip-hop collaborations have made him one of the strongest newcomers in this year’s race.

    Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz grabbed four nominations, continuing his dominance in East Africa. South Africa’s breakout star Tyla and Eswatini’s Uncle Waffles each earned four nominations, confirming the rising power of Amapiano and Afro-house sounds.

    Cote d’Ivoire’s Didi B got three nominations, including Best Male Artiste in West Africa and Album of the Year, while Gabon’s Eboloko was listed for Breakout Artiste of the Year among his three nods, just as Emma’a also received three nominations, including Best Female Artiste in Central Africa.

    DR Congo’s heavyweights are not left out. Fally Ipupa bagged three nominations, including Artiste of the Year, while Ferre Gola earned three nods, among them Songwriter of the Year.

    In North Africa, Morocco’s Jaylann received three nominations, while Tanzania’s Juma Jux also scored three, including Song of the Year for Ololufe mi. South Africa produced two triple nominees: Mawhoo, recognised for her hit Bengicela, and rap star Nasty C, who got three nods for his track Soft.

    Nigeria’s Rema also emerged with three nominations, including Artiste of the Year and Best Male in West Africa.

    Ayra Starr has two nominations, but she is contesting for the Artiste of the Year Award with big stars including Davido, Burna Boy and El Grande Toto.

    The diaspora also shone brightly on the list, with male nominees such as DJ Snake, Gazo, Niska, Tayc, Tiakola, Tif, Werenoi, WizTheMC, L’Algérino, and Odeal making the cut. On the female side, the nominees include Aya Nakamura, Annatoria, Choisie Basolua, Darkoo, Deborah Lukalu, Faouzia, Ronisia, The Unveiled, Theodora, and Zaho.

    AFRIMA jury member Delani Makhalima, who represents the Southern African region on the panel, described the 2025 nominees’ list as proof of how far African music has come.

    “It’s been a dream of ours for a long time to work this hard to get to a place where African music can be heard by everyone. We were marginalised for so many years; our voices were not heard as artists, as creators, as songwriters, as producers, as engineers, as video makers, as filmmakers. Twelve years in, we’re now here. This is global. This is AFRIMA, the biggest music entity on the face of the continent,” he said.

    In collaboration with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA 2025 is being organised alongside the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Official Host City, Lagos State.

    The 2025 celebration will run from November 25 to 30, 2025, featuring the Welcome Soiree, the AFRIMA Music Village, the Africa Music Business Summit, a Host City Tour, the Nominees Party, and the Main Awards Ceremony. The grand finale on November 30 will be broadcast live to over 84 countries worldwide.

    See the official list below:

    AFRIMA2025 NOMINEES LIST

    THE REGIONAL CATEGORY

    BEST MALE ARTISTE IN CENTRAL AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    C4 PEDRO

    SEM QUERER

    ANGOLA

    2

    EBOLOKO

    SATANANA (FT. DRE-A)

    GABON

    3

    GIMS

    NINAO

    DRC

    4

    GERILSON INSRAEL

    AROMA INSANO

    ANGOLA

    5

    KOCEE

    STRANGER (WITH KS BLOOM)

    CAMEROON

    6

    L’OISEAU RARE

    NIAMATOS

    GABON

    7

    FALLY IPUPA

    LE TEMPS

    DRC

    8

    MAGASCO

    DIRTY WHINE (FT. MIMIE)

    CAMEROON

    9

    SINGUILA

    ON FAIT COMMENT

    THE CONGO

    10

    WERRASON

    TOUT SE PAIE ICI-BAS

    DRC

    BEST FEMALE ARTISTE IN CENTRAL AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ANNA JOYCE

    OUTRA VEZ

    ANGOLA

    2

    BLANCHE BAILLY

    LÈVE TOI (FT. LADY PONCE)

    CAMEROON

    3

    CHARLOTTE DIPANDA

    DIS MOI (FT. TAYC)

    CAMEROON

    4

    CINDY LE COEUR

    POUPIYE (FT. KOFFI OLOMIDÉ)

    DRC

    5

    DEBORAH LUKALU

    GOD IS GOOD

    DRC

    6

    EMMA’A

    ÇA M’A LAISSÉ

    GABON

    7

    JESSY B

    LA VIE EST BELLE (FT. BLACK M)

    THE CONGO

    8

    KRYS M

    MERCI

    CAMEROON

    9

    LIRIANY

    SUPER HOMEM

    ANGOLA

    10

    REBO

    MOBAMBO

    DRC

    BEST MALE ARTISTE IN EASTERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    BIEN

    ALL MY ENEMIES ARE SUFFERING

    KENYA

    2

    DIAMOND PLATNUMZ

    BABU (FT. MASTERPIECE_YVK)

    TANZANIA

    3

    ELEMENT ELEÉEH

    TOMBE

    RWANDA

    4

    JOSHUA BARAKA

    WRONG PLACES

    UGANDA

    5

    JUX

    GOD DESIGN (WITH PHYNO)

    TANZANIA

    6

    MARIOO

    HA HA HA

    TANZANIA

    7

    MBOSSO

    OVA

    TANZANIA

    8

    BRUCE MELODIE

    BEAUTY ON FIRE (FT. JOEBOY)

    RWANDA

    9

    SAT-B

    KIRISESE (FT. CHAMPURU MAKHENZO)

    BURUNDI

    10

    YARED NEGU

    ALEMDIM

    ETHIOPIA

    BEST FEMALE ARTISTE IN EASTERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ABIGAIL CHAMS

    ME TOO (WITH HARMONIZE)

    TANZANIA

    2

    BRIDGET BLUE

    I CHOOSE YOU (WITH BIEN)

    KENYA

    3

    DENISE

    MATOKY ZAGNAHARY

    MADAGASCAR

    4

    HALELUYA TEKLETSADIK

    YELEBE

    ETHIOPIA

    5

    LADY JAYDEE

    PO PO

    TANZANIA

    6

    MAHLET WENDIMU

    ZIM

    ETHIOPIA

    7

    SALEMIA

    ALEM BIRE

    ETHIOPIA

    8

    WEEHA

    DIMAMA

    ETHIOPIA

    9

    WINNIE NWAGI

    CONTROL IT

    UGANDA

    10

    ZUCHU

    AMANDA

    TANZANIA

    BEST MALE ARTISTE IN NORTHERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    A.L.A.

    MAKINA (FT. MOOTJEYEK)

    TUNISIA

    2

    ADVISER

    NDILLEN (FT. MIA GUISSÉ)

    MAURITANIA

    3

    AMR DIAB

    BABA

    EGYPT

    4

    CHEB MOMO

    ATITEHA L’AMOUR

    ALGERIA

    5

    EL GRANDETOTO

    DIPLOMATICO

    MOROCCO

    6

    HAMZA NAMIRA

    SHAMS W HAWA

    EGYPT

    7

    LBENJ

    RWINI (FT. MOUNIM SLIMANI)

    MOROCCO

    8

    MOHAMED RAMADAN

    ANA ENTA

    EGYPT

    9

    STORMY

    PIRATE

    MOROCCO

    10

    WEGZ

    ELWA3D

    EGYPT

    BEST FEMALE ARTISTE IN NORTHERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    CHIRINE LAJMI

    ECHEH ECHEH

    TUNISIA

    2

    INEZ

    AH MIN HALA

    MOROCCO

    3

    JANNAT

    K2NAK ROH

    EGYPT

    4

    JAYLANN

    HA WLIDI

    MOROCCO

    5

    MANAL

    CABARET

    MOROCCO

    6

    MERYEM ABOULOUAFA

    HORSES

    MOROCCO

    7

    SHERINE

    BATMANA ANSAK

    EGYPT

    8

    ZINA DAOUDIA

    SUR SCÈNE

    MOROCCO

    BEST MALE ARTISTE IN SOUTHERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ANDERSON MÁRIO

    CHOROU

    MOZAMBIQUE

    2

    JAH PRAYZAH

    MANDIONEI

    ZIMBABWE

    3

    MANANA

    LITTLE THINGS

    ESWATINI

    4

    NASTY C

    SOFT (WITH USIMAMANE)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    5

    TEDDY MAKADI

    DESIRE

    MALAWI

    6

    TYLER ICU

    AWUNGEKE (WITH VISCA FT. LEEMCKRAZY, MR NATION THINGZ, VEERSA, CUBA BEATS, BUDDY KAY, TYRONE DEE & 2WOSHORT)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    7

    WANITWAMOS

    MFAZI WEPHEPHA (WITH NKOSAZANA DAUGHTER & MASTER KG FT. BIGZULU & ZEE NXUMALO )

    SOUTH AFRICA

    8

    YO MAPS

    MR & MRS

    ZAMBIA

    9

    ZEZE KINGSTON

    ACHISALE (WITH LEUMAS FT. NAE RAE)

    MALAWI

    10

    KAZBA DE SMALL

    NGYOZAMA (WITH DLALA THUKZIN FT. SYKES, YOUNG STUNNA, NKOSAZANA DAUGHTER, TRACY & THATOHATSI)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    BEST FEMALE ARTISTE IN SOUTHERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    BABALWA M

    BO THATA (FT. STIXX & NVCHO)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    2

    HANNA

    CAN’T STOP

    ZIMBABWE

    3

    MAKHADZI

    JEALOUS DOWN (FT. DR SKARO)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    4

    NKOSAZANA DAUGHTER

    EMSAKAZWENI (FT. NOBUHLE & ESSA KAY)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    5

    NONTOKOZO MKHIZE

    ESANDLENI

    SOUTH AFRICA

    6

    SHA SHA

    EGLASINI (FT. TYLER ICU, 2WOSHORT, SCOTTS MAPHUMA & TYRONE DEE)

    ZIMBABWE

    7

    TEMWAH

    MONEY ANTHEM (FT. MIC MASH)

    MALAWI

    8

    TYLA

    PUSH 2 START

    SOUTH AFRICA

    9

    UNCLE WAFFLES

    BAPHI (FT. ROYAL MUSIQ, COWBOII, MARK KHOZA & UNCOOL MC)

    ESWATINI

    10

    ZEE NXUMALO

    NGISAKUTHANDA (WITH TBO, PYY LOG DRUM KING FT. DJ TEARZ & DR. THULZ)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    BEST MALE ARTISTE IN WESTERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ASAKE

    UHH YEAH

    NIGERIA

    2

    AXEL MERRYL

    TITULAIRE (FT. MIA GUISSÉ & BASS THIOUNG)

    BENIN

    3

    BLACK SHERIF

    REBEL MUSIC

    GHANA

    4

    BURNA BOY

    UPDATE

    NIGERIA

    5

    DAVIDO

    WITH YOU (FT. OMAH LAY)

    NIGERIA

    6

    DIDI B

    HOLIDAY SEASON

    COTE D’IVOIRE

    7

    DJODJE

    LUA

    CAPE VERDE

    8

    REMA

    BABY (IS IT A CRIME)

    NIGERIA

    9

    VJ

    KAAY WAAY

    SENEGAL

    10

    WIZKID

    KESE

    NIGERIA

    BEST FEMALE ARTISTE IN WESTERN AFRICA

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    AMAARAE

    S.M.O

    GHANA

    2

    AYRA STARR

    ALL THE LOVE

    NIGERIA

    3

    DJELYKABA BINTOU

    UNIQUE (FT. MIA GUISSÉ)

    GUINEA

    4

    JOSEY

    NE TOUCHE PAS MA SŒUR (WITH NEJ)

    COTE D’IVOIRE

    5

    MARIAM BA LAGARÉ

    MON CHOIX (FT. WALLY SECK)

    MALI

    6

    MIA GUISSÉ

    CHOIX (FT. WALLY SECK)

    SENEGAL

    7

    MOLIY

    SHAKE IT TO THE MAX (WITH SILENT ADDY, SKILLIBENG & SHENSEEA)

    GHANA

    8

    TIWA SAVAGE

    YOU 4 ME

    NIGERIA

    9

    VIVIANE CHIDID

    MANDOU

    SENEGAL

    10

    WENDY SHAY

    TOO LATE

    GHANA

    AFRIMA2025 NOMINEES LIST

    CONTINENTAL CATEGORY

    Best Male Artiste in African Inspirational Music

    1

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    CHRISTIAN MUKUNA

    TOMBWAMA

    DRC

    2

    DJUNNY BEATZ

    PRAY FOR MOZ (FT. NIKOTINA KF)

    MOZAMBIQUE

    3

    GAISE BABA

    NO TURNING BACK II (WITH LAWRENCE OYOR)

    NIGERIA

    4

    ISRAEL MBONYI

    KAA NAMI

    RWANDA

    5

    JAH PRAYZAH

    MIBVUNZO

    ZIMBABWE

    6

    JOEL LWAGA

    OLODUMARE

    TANZANIA

    7

    KOCEE

    STRANGER (WITH KS BLOOM)

    CAMEROON/COTE D’IVOIRE

    8

    LAWRENCE OYOR

    FAVOUR

    NIGERIA

    9

    MILO

    C’EST MON ANNÉE

    COTE D’IVORIE

    10

    SJAVA

    UYENA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    BEST FEMALE ARTISTE IN AFRICAN INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC

    2

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ADA EHI

    YES SIR (MERCY CHINWO)

    NIGERIA

    2

    CHOISIE BASOLUA

    EKOMAMA

    DRC

    3

    KRYS M

    MERCI

    CAMEROUN

    4

    MARTHA MWAIPAJA

    KUSHINDA LAZIMA

    TANZANIA

    5

    MERCY CHINWO

    WE MOVE

    NIGERIA

    6

    MORIJAH

    ADN DU TRÈS HAUT

    COTE D’IVOIRE

    7

    NONTOKOZO MKHIZE

    ESANDLENI

    SOUTH AFRICA

    8

    ROSELINE LAYO

    ZOE

    COTE D’IVOIRE

    9

    VESTINE & DORCAS

    YEBO (NITAWALE)

    RWANDA

    BEST AFRICAN ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN JAZZ

    3

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ADRIAN YOUNGE & ALI SHAHEED MUHAMMAD

    OBI DO WOA (IF SOMEONE LOVES YOU) (FT. EBO TAYLOR)

    GHANA

    2

    HADDINQO

    TIZITA THE KEBENA (FT. MOSEB BAND)

    ETHIOPIA

    3

    MÁDÉ KUTI

    WAIT AND SEE

    NIGERIA

    4

    RORISANG SECHELE

    AFRICAN ORCHID

    SOUTH AFRICA

    5

    SIBUSISO MASH MASHILOANE

    KWANDEBELE

    SOUTH AFRICA

    6

    THE CAVEMEN

    MEDICINE

    NIGERIA

    7

    ALUNE WADE

    BOOGIE & JUJU

    SENEGAL

    8

    NOMFUNDO XALUVA

    WENDILE

    SOUTH AFRICA

    9

    KYLE SHEPHERD TRIO

    TEARDROP

    SOUTH AFRICA

    BEST AFRICAN ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN POP

    4

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ADVISER

    NDILLEN (FT. MIA GUISSÉ)

    MAURITANIA

    2

    AMADEUS

    JËLI (FT. WALLY B. SECK)

    SENEGAL

    3

    AMR DIAB

    BABA

    EGYPT

    4

    BURNA BOY

    CHANGE YOUR MIND (FT. SHABOOZEY)

    NIGERIA

    5

    GIMS

    NINAO

    CONGO DRC

    6

    LBENJ

    RWINI (FT. MOUNIM SLIMANI)

    MOROCCO

    7

    MANAMBA KANTÉ

    KOUMA

    GUINEA

    8

    SEYI VIBEZ

    SHAOLIN

    NIGERIA

    9

    MOHAMED RAMADAN

    ANA ENTA

    EGYPT

    10

    SAAD LMJARRED

    RISKIN

    MOROCCO

    BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN CONTEMPORARY

    5

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    FIREBOY DML

    ISEOLUWA

    NIGERIA

    2

    AXEL MERRYL

    TITULAIRE (FT. MIA GUISSÉ & BASS THIOUNG)

    BENIN

    3

    ESPE BASS

    LE TEMPS DES NOCES (FT. EXTRA MUSICA

    CONGO B

    4

    BIEN

    ALL MY ENEMIES ARE SUFFERING

    KENYA

    5

    JAYLANN

    HA WLIDI

    MOROCCO

    6

    KIZZ DANIEL, ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO & JOHNNY DRILLE

    POLICE

    NIGERIA

    7

    MBOSSO

    OVA

    TANZANIA

    8

    FERRE GOLA & RAYVANNY

    MOBONDO

    DRC

    9

    DIDINE CANON 16

    SMAHT OU MCHIT

    ALGERIA

    10

    WENDY SHAY

    TOO LATE

    GHANA

    BEST SOUNDTRACK IN MOVIE, SERIES, OR DOCUMENTARY

    6

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    IGHO’LE TRAP MIX VERSION (“TO KILL A MONKEY”: SERIES)

    OSCAR HEMAN-ACKAH (FT. PRESIDENT EMS & UZIKWENDU)

    GHANA

    2

    EL MA2AS (“THE START”: FILM)

    TAMER HOSNY, REDA ELBAHRAWY

    EGYPT

    3

    YOU ARE (“IYANU”: THE ANIMATED SERIES)

    YEMI ALADE

    NIGERIA

    4

    TIMPI TAMPA (“TIMPI TAMPA”: THE FILM)

    ISMAËL LO

    SENEGAL

    5

    TORI IFE (“SEVEN DOORS”: SERIES)

    TOLU OBANRO

    NIGERIA

    6

    SAATTE RAGOUJ (“THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS” FILM)

    KAFON

    TUNISIA

    SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR

    7

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    BAKHAW DIOUM

    CHOIX (MIA GUISSÉ FT. WALLY B. SECK)

    SENEGAL

    2

    EMEL, JEHNNY BETH & CAMILLE BERTHOMIER

    FALL IN THE LIGHT (EMEL FT. JEHNNY BETH)

    TUNISIA

    3

    EMMA’A

    TROP D’AMOUR

    GABON

    4

    EMMANUEL AYOBAMI ALLI-HAKEEM

    ZA (ANENDLESSOCEAN)

    NIGERIA

    5

    FERRE GOLA

    AMOUR ILLUSOIRE (FERRE GOLA)

    DRC

    6

    MOHAMMED ISMAIL SHARRIF

    REBEL MUSIC (BLACK SHERIF)

    GHANA

    7

    MUGISHA FRED ROBINSON

    TOMBÉ (ELEMENT ELEÉEH)

    RWANDA

    8

    OLAMIDE ADEDEJI

    HASSIBUNALLAH (OLAMIDE)

    NIGERIA

    9

    PRINCE OMOFERI & NWAMU FRANCIS CHUKWUDUBEM

    IT HURTS (JOHNNY DRILLE & DON JAZZY)

    NIGERIA

    10

    VICTOR NGATUVESE KAUNE

    OPUTURI “QUEENS” (ONE BLOOD NAMIBIA)

    NAMIBIA

    BEST GLOBAL ACT

    8

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ROSÉ

    APT (WITH BRUNO MARS)

    SOUTH KOREA/USA

    2

    JOÉ DWÈT FILE

    4 KAMPÉ

    HAITI

    3

    LADY GAGA & BRUNO MARS

    DIE WITH A SMILE

    USA

    4

    FANTOMEL & KATE LINN

    DAME UN GRR

    ROMANIA

    5

    DRAKE

    NOKIA

    CANADA

    6

    ALEX WARREN

    ORDINARY

    USA

    7

    DOECHII

    ANXIETY

    USA

    8

    ED SHEERAN

    AZIZAM

    UK

    9

    YUNG BREDDA

    THE GREATEST BEND OVER

    TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

    AFRICAN FANS’ FAVOURITE

    9

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ALI JITA

    HUBBI AISHA

    NIGERIA

    2

    BARNABA

    SALAMA (FT. DIAMOND PLATNUMZ)

    TANZANIA

    3

    BNXN & REMA

    FI KAN WE KAN

    NIGERIA

    4

    CHELLA

    MY DARLING

    NIGERIA

    5

    DLALA THUKZIN

    SOHLALA SISONKE

    SOUTH AFRICA

    6

    INNOSS’B

    CHILLING

    DRC

    7

    KIZZ DANIEL

    MARHABA

    NIGERIA

    8

    PARAZAR

    GHIR HAK

    ALGERIA

    9

    FACELESS

    VENUS (FT. SERØTONIN)

    NIGERIA

    10

    TUL8TE

    MATEEGY A3ADY ALEIKY

    EGYPT

    10

    BEST AFRICAN DJ

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    DJ MALVADO

    MUSSOLA (WITH & DJ AKA-M FT. DODY)

    ANGOLA

    2

    DJ MAPHORISA

    DLALA KA YONA (WITH XDUPPY & ENNY MAN DA GUITAR FT. FOCALISTIC, RICKY LENYORA, UNCOOL MC)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    DJ MOH GREEN

    KELELE

    ALGERIA

    4

    DJ MOMBOCHI

    LIFOLI (FT. PATERNE MAESTRO)

    THE CONGO

    5

    DJ TUNEZ

    ONE CONDITION (DJ TUNEZ, WIZKID & FOLA)

    NIGERIA

    6

    DJ YK MULE

    OBLEE REMIX (FT. SLIMCASE, QDOT & CASH COMING)

    NIGERIA

    7

    KELVIN MOMO

    BO GOGO (WITH DA MUZIQAL CHEF FT. TRACY AND THATOHATSI)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    8

    OSCAR MBO

    VUKA (WITH JAZZWORX FT. THUKUTHELA)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    9

    UNCLE WAFFLES

    ZENZELE ( FT. COWBOII, ROYAL MUSIQ, UNCOOL MC & XDUPPY)

    ESWATINI

    10

    WOODBLOCK DJS

    SKUTA BABA (FT. BUZZI LEE, KANE KEID, CASSPER NYOVEST, KWESTA, TONY DAYIMANE, MVELOST, SET OFF & SOMOLOLO)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    11

    PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    BENETH SERAPHIN AKATCHÉ KOFFI

    KAAY WAAY (VJ)

    SENEGAL

    2

    BUTTERNUT, XOLANI MAJOZI

    SKUTA BABA (REMIX) (WOODBLOCK DJS FT. BUZZI LEE, KANE KEID, CASSPER NYOVEST, KWESTA, TONY DAYIMANE, MVELOST, SET OFF & SOMOLOLO]

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    DINA ONE

    KOUMA (MANAMBA KANTÉ)

    MALI

    4

    ELEMENT ELEÉEH & MUGISHA FRED ROBINSON

    TOMBÉ ELEMENT ELEÉEH

    RWANDA

    6

    JAZZWORX

    BENGICELA (MAHWOO, GL CEEJAY & THUKUTHELA FT. JAZZWORX))

    SOUTH AFRICA

    7

    PROGREX

    LAHO (SHALLIPOPI)

    NIGERIA

    8

    DAVINCI

    SUPER HOMEM (LIRIANY)

    ANGOLA

    9

    TEMPOE

    WITH YOU (DAVIDO FT. OMAH LAY)

    NIGERIA

    10

    THEMBA SEKOWE, GOMOLEMO JOY GUMEDE, KABELO MOTHA

    ABANTWANA BAKHO (DJ MAPHORISA, XDUPPY, KABZA DE SMALL FT. THATOHATSI, YOUNGSTUNNA, NKOSAZANA DAUGHTER)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    12

    ALBUM OF THE YEAR

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    AMR DIAB

    EBTADENA

    EGYPT

    2

    BURNA BOY

    NO SIGN OF WEAKNESS

    NIGERIA

    3

    DAVIDO

    5IVE

    NIGERIA

    4

    DIDI B

    DIYILEM & BAZARHOFF: GENIUS

    COTE D’IVOIRE

    5

    DJ MAPHORISA & XDUPPY

    NGOMOYA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    6

    EL GRANDE TOTO

    SALGOAT

    MOROCCO

    7

    HIMRA

    BIG AKA 4 AKA KAI

    COTE D’IVOIRE

    8

    KELVIN MOMO

    THATO YA MODIMO

    SOUTH AFRICA

    10

    TINARIWEN

    IDRACHE (TRACES OF THE PAST)

    MALI

    13

    BEST AFRICAN VIDEO OF THE YEAR

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    BABS DIRECTION (AWUDU MUSA)

    REBEL (BLACK SHERIF)

    GHANA

    2

    BONGANI TSHABALALA AND VUYO MPANTSHA

    META (NOMCEBO ZIKODE & SOFIYA NZAU FT. FIREBOY DML)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    DIRECTOR PINK

    KI LO WA WA (YEMI ALADE)

    NIGERIA

    4

    EDRINE PAUL DIRECTOR

    SOMEBODY (SHEEBAH)

    UGANDA

    5

    FOLE X

    OVA (MBOSSO)

    TANZANIA

    6

    FOLE X

    OLOLUFE (JUMA JUX & DIAMOND PLATNUMZ)

    TANZANIA

    7

    TG OMORI

    SHAOLIN (SEYI VIBEZ)

    NIGERIA

    8

    WLDRB

    STK STK (DIZZY DROS, KEKRA & NORFAFRICA)

    MOROCCO

    14

    SONG OF THE YEAR

    S/NO

    TRACK TITLE

    ARTISTE

    COUNTRY

    1

    ISAKA (6AM)

    CIZA, JAZZWORX & THUKUTHELA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    2

    BENGICELA

    MAWHOO GL CEEJAY & THUKUTHELA (FT. JAZZWORX)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    CHOIX

    MIA GUISSÉ (FT. WALLY SECK)

    SENEGAL

    4

    DIPLOMATICO

    EL GRANDE TOTO

    MOROCCO

    5

    KAAY WAAY

    VJ

    SENEGAL

    6

    LAHO

    SHALLIPOPI

    NIGERIA

    7

    OLOLUFE MI

    JUX & DIAMOND PLATNUMZ

    TANZANIA

    8

    PUSH 2 START

    TYLA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    9

    SHAKE IT TO THE MAX

    MOLIY, SHENSEEA, SKILLIBENG & SILENT ADDY

    GHANA

    10

    WITH YOU

    DAVIDO (FT. OMAH LAY)

    NIGERIA

    15

    BEST AFRICAN DANCE/CHOREOGRAPHY

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    JAYLANN

    HA WLIDI

    MOROCCO

    2

    LADY PONCE

    JE VEUX DANSER

    CAMEROON

    3

    REBO

    MOBAMBO

    DRC

    4

    SERGE BEYNAUD

    TAPER DEDANS

    COTE D’IVOIRE

    5

    TOOFAN

    DEODORANT

    TOGO

    6

    TYLA

    PUSH 2 START

    SOUTH AFRICA

    7

    UNCLE WAFFLES & ROYAL MUSIQ

    ZENZELE (FT. COWBOII, XDUPPY & UNCOOL MC)

    ESWATINI

    8

    WEEHA

    DIMAMA

    ETHIOPIA

    9

    WERRASON

    TOUT SE PAIE ICI BAS

    DRC

    10

    WIZKID

    KESE

    NIGERIA

    16

    BEST AFRICAN ACT REGGAE, RAGGA & DANCEHALL

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    MAGASCO

    DIRTY WHINE (FT. MIMIE)

    CAMEROON

    2

    MOLIY, SHENSEEA, SKILLIBENG & SILENT ADDY

    SHAKE IT TO THE MAX REMIX

    GHANA

    3

    RUGER & KRANIUM

    DUDU

    NIGERIA

    4

    SEAN MORGAN

    VUU

    MALAWI

    5

    BLACK SHERIF

    REBEL MUSIC

    GHANA

    6

    TAKANA ZION

    ON MY EYES

    GUINEA

    7

    TIWA SAVAGE

    FORGIVENESS

    NIGERIA

    8

    WAKADINALI

    KUM BABA (FT. ABBAS KUBAF, WAKUU, PEPELA & MASTERPIECE KING)

    KENYA

    9

    YEMI ALADE

    BADDIE (REMIX) (FT. KONSHENS AND FEMI ONE)

    NIGERIA

    10

    IYANII, MWANAA (VIJANA BARUBARU) & CEDO

    KIFO CHA MENDE

    KENYA

    17

    BEST AFRICAN ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN ROCK

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    LAEKE

    ESKENEKA

    ETHIOPIA

    2

    IZLAN

    AMEZYAN

    ALGERIA

    3

    FRANCK BIYONG

    STRUGGLE 4 MONEY

    CAMEROON

    4

    RASH

    DO OR DIE

    KENYA

    5

    MDOU MOCTAR

    IMOUHAR (INJUSTICE VERSION)

    NIGER

    6

    CHRISSY ZEBBY TEMBO & THE NGOZI FAMILY

    I AM NOT MADE OF IRON

    ZAMBIA

    18

    BEST ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN TRADITIONAL

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    BIG ZULU

    NG’SALE NOBANI (FT. ZEH MCGEBA & ZEE NXUMALO)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    2

    CHIRINE LAJMI

    ECHEH ECHEH

    TUNISIA

    3

    LADY PONCE

    JE VEUX DANSER

    CAMEROON

    4

    LAMA SHREIF

    JAYEK LAHSSEB (FT. CHEB BACHIR)

    TUNISIA

    5

    LARRY GAAGA, FLAVOUR & QUEEN THERESA ONUORAH

    OBODO (FT. PHYNO)

    NIGERIA

    6

    SONA TATA

    NAINAI BANA

    GUINEA

    7

    STONEBWOY

    JEJEREJE (WITH GINTON)

    GHANA

    8

    TINARIWEN

    AMOSS IDJRAW

    MALI

    9

    TONTON PAL & BINGUINI BAKHAGA

    COURONNE

    MALI

    10

    VERONICA ADANE

    KANTE LELA

    ETHIOPIA

    19

    BEST AFRICAN COLLABORATION

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    BLANCHE BAILLY & LADY PONCE

    LÈVE TOI

    CAMEROUN

    2

    GOON FLAVOUR, MASTER KG & EEMOH

    NGISHUTHENI

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    MIA GUISSÉ FT. WALLY SECK

    CHOIX

    SENEGAL

    4

    MOLIY, SILENT ADDY, SKILLIBENG & SHENSEEA

    SHAKE IT TO THE MAX (FLY) (REMIX)

    GHANA

    5

    PAKI CHENZU FT. HIMRA

    ASSAUT (ENCORE ET ENCORE)

    TOGO/COTE D’IVOIRE

    6

    SHALLIPOPI FT. BURNA BOY

    LAHO

    NIGERIA

    7

    UNCLE WAFFLES FT. COWBOII, ROYAL MUSIQ, UNCOOL MC & XDUPPY

    ZENZELE

    ESWATINI

    8

    DAVIDO FT. OMAH LAY

    WITH YOU

    NIGERIA

    9

    MAWHOO, GL CEEJAY & THUKUTHELA FT. JAZZWORX

    BENGICELA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    10

    BENNY ADAM & KHADIJA EL WARZAZIA

    MOK YA MOK

    MOROCCO

    20

    MOST PROMISING ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    CYSOUL

    KOULOS

    CAMEROUN

    2

    JOSHUA BARAKA

    WRONG PLACES

    UGANDA

    3

    KING LUCA

    FRAGILE

    CAMEROUN

    4

    L’OISEAU RARE

    NIAMATOS

    GABON

    5

    LWAH NDLUNKULU

    MNAKWETHU

    SOUTH AFRICA

    6

    MASSAMBA AMADEUS

    DAARU DUNYA

    SENEGAL

    7

    QING MADI, VALORANT

    EGO

    NIGERIA

    8

    RYM

    TAJ LI WATANI

    MOROCCO

    9

    KUNMIE

    ARIKE

    NIGERIA

    10

    FOLA

    WHO DOES THAT? (FT BELLA SHMURDA)

    NIGERIA

    21

    ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

    S/NO

    ARTISTE

    TRACK TITLE

    COUNTRY

    1

    AMR DIAB

    KHATFOONY (FT. JANA DIAB)

    EGYPT

    2

    AYRA STARR

    ALL THE LOVE

    NIGERIA

    3

    BURNA BOY

    UPDATE

    NIGERIA

    4

    DAVIDO

    WITH YOU (FT. OMAH LAY)

    NIGERIA

    5

    DJ MAPHORISA

    DLALA KA YONA (WITH XDUPPY & ENNY MAN DA GUITAR FT. FOCALISTIC, RICKY LENYORA, UNCOOL MC)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    6

    EL GRANDE TOTO

    DIPLOMATICO

    MOROCCO

    7

    FALLY IPUPA

    LE TEMPS

    DRC

    8

    JUX

    OLOLUFE MI (WITH DIAMOND PLATNUMZ)

    TANZANIA

    9

    REMA

    BABY (IS IT A CRIME)

    NIGERIA

    10

    SHALLIPOPI

    LAHO

    NIGERIA

    TYLA

    PUSH 2 START

    SOUTH AFRICA

    22

    BREAKOUT ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

    S/NO

    Artist

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    BLAQ MAJOR

    SDAKIWE SBALI (FT. BLESS THE GENTLEMAN & DJ KAP)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    2

    CIZA

    ISAKA (6AM) WITH JAZZWORX & THUKUTHELA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    EBOLOKO

    SATANANA (FT. DRE-A)

    GABON

    4

    HIMRA

    YOROBO

    COTE D IVOIRE

    5

    MARIOO

    NAIROBI

    TANZANIA

    6

    MAWHOO

    BENGICELA (WITH GL CEEJAY & THUKUTHELA FT. JAZZWORX)

    SOUTH AFRICA

    7

    MOLIY

    SHAKE IT TO THE MAX (WITH SHENSEEA, SKILLIBENG & SILENT ADDY )

    GHANA

    8

    SHALLIPOPI

    LAHO

    NIGERIA

    9

    TRAP KING

    HUSTLIN

    ALGERIA

    10

    VJ

    KAAY WAAY

    SENEGAL

    23

    BEST AFRICAN LYRICIST RAPPER

    S/NO

    Artiste

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    ALA

    TFADHEL

    TUNISIA

    2

    DIDI B

    PADRÉ VELI

    CôTE D’IVOIRE

    3

    JESSY B

    LA VIE EST BELLE (FT. BLACK M)

    CONGO B

    4

    KLASSAFAN LE MELANGEUR

    WON SOUKHOU

    GUINEA

    5

    NASTY C & USIMAMANE

    SOFT

    SOUTH AFRICA

    6

    NYASHINSKI

    BUSY

    KENYA

    7

    REMINISCE

    KUPE

    NIGERIA

    8

    SARKODIE

    VIOLENCE (FT. KWEDU SMOKE

    GHANA

    9

    SWITCH

    ZENZANA

    LIBYA

    10

    YACOU B OG

    KILIMANDJARO

    MALI

    24

    BEST AFRICAN ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN HIPHOP

    S/NO

    Artiste

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    ALA FT. MOOTJEYEK

    MAKINA

    TUNISIA

    2

    CASSPER NYOVEST

    KUSHO BANI

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    EBOLOKO

    3X NDOSS (FT. YORSSYANTF)

    GABON

    4

    EL GRANDE TOTO

    DIPLOMATICO

    MOROCCO

    5

    HIMRA

    YOROBO

    COTE D IVOIRE

    6

    PHYNO

    TROUBLE MAKER

    NIGERIA

    7

    NASTY C & USIMAMANE

    SOFT

    SOUTH AFRICA

    8

    ODUMODUBLVCK

    LEGOLAS

    NIGERIA

    9

    SARKODIE

    MESSIAH (FT. KWEKU FLICK)

    GHANA

    10

    SUSPECT 95

    MONLISA (FT. HIMRA)

    COTE D’IVORIE

    25

    BEST AFRICAN ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN RNB & SOUL

    S/NO

    Artiste

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    BENSOUL & V- BE

    KAUTAMU FLANI

    KENYA

    2

    BIG ZULU FT. MALUNGELO

    AZALA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    BRAYE

    I WISH I HAD MORE TIME

    NIGERIA

    4

    CALEMA

    AMAR PELA METADE

    SAO TOME

    5

    EMMA’A

    ÇA M’A LAISSÉ

    GABON

    6

    KUNMIE

    ARIKE

    NIGERIA

    7

    MANAL

    CABARET

    MOROCCO

    8

    NALEDI APHIWE & MAWELELE

    ROMEO & JULIET

    SOUTH AFRICA

    9

    REMA

    BABY (IS IT A CRIME)

    NIGERIA

    10

    WEGZ FT. TAYC

    GIRLFRIEND

    EGYPT

    26

    BEST AFRICAN ARTISTE, DUO OR GROUP IN AFRICAN EDM, HOUSE, TECHNO

    S/NO

    Artiste

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    ASAKE

    UHH YEAH

    NIGERIA

    2

    BLACK COFFEE, BILLIE EILISH

    CHHIRO

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    DJ MAPHORISA, XDUPPY & ENNY MAN DA GUITAR FT. FOCALISTIC, RICKY LENYORA, UNCOOL MC.

    DLALA KA YONA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    4

    GOON FLAVOUR, MASTER KG & EEMOH

    NGISHUTHENI

    SOUTH AFRICA

    5

    KVNG VINCI FT. ZERRYDL

    HAUSAPIANO (REMIX)

    NIGERIA

    6

    MAWHOO, GL CEEJAY & THUKUTELA FT. JAZZWORX

    BENGICELA

    SOUTH AFRICA

    7

    MBOSSO

    AVIOLA

    TANZANIA

    8

    NOMCEBO ZIKODE & SOFIYA NZAU FT. FIREBOY DML

    META

    SOUTH AFRICA/KENYA/NIGERIA

    9

    SAT-B FT. CHAMPURA MAKHENZO

    KIRISESE

    BURUNDI

    10

    YEMI ALADE

    KI LO WA WA

    NIGERIA

    27

    BEST AFRICAN ACT IN DIASPORA MALE

    S/NO

    Artiste

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    DJ SNAKE

    NOVENTA (FT. J BALVIN)

    FRANCE/ALGERIA

    2

    GAZO

    NANANI NANANA

    FRANCE/GUINEA

    3

    NISKA

    ADRIANO

    FRANCE/DRC

    4

    TAYC

    FORÉVÀ

    FRANCE/CAMEROON

    5

    TIAKOLA

    MBIFE (WITH GENEZIO)

    FRANCE/DRC

    6

    TIF

    KAFINI (WITH EL GRANDE TOTO)

    FRANCE/ALGERIA/MOROCCO

    7

    WERENOI

    PONEY

    FRANCE/CAMEROON

    8

    WIZTHEMC

    SHOW ME LOVE (WITH BEES & HONEY)

    SOUTH AFRICA/CANADA

    9

    L’ALGÉRINO

    AU SOLEIL (WITH JOSAS)

    ALGERIA/FRANCE

    10

    ODEAL

    BLAME U

    NIGERIA/UK

    28

    BEST AFRICAN ACT IN DIASPORA FEMALE

    S/NO

    Artiste

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    AYA NAKAMURA

    BADDIES (WITH JOÉ DWÈT FILÉ)

    MALI/FRANCE

    2

    ANNATORIA

    HARK NOW HEAR

    ZIMBABWE/ENGLAND

    3.

    DARKOO

    FAVOURITE GIRL (FT. REMA)

    NIGERIA/UK

    4

    DEBORAH LUKALU

    GOD IS GOOD

    DRC/USA

    5

    FAOUZIA

    UNETHICAL

    CANADA/MOROCCO

    6

    RONISIA

    SWIPE

    CAPE VERDE/FRANCE

    7

    THEODORA

    KONGOLESE SOUS BBL (FT. JEEZ SUAVE)

    DRC/FRANCE

    8.

    ZAHO

    DIOR AND ZAWAJ (WITH YOUV)

    ALGERIA/CANADA

    29

    BEST AFRICAN DUO, GROUP OR BAND

    S/NO

    Artiste

    Track Title

    Country

    1

    BABYLONE

    TELLEMENT NDARIT

    ALGERIA

    2

    BLAQ DIAMOND

    PIKI PIKI

    SOUTH AFRICA

    3

    CELEMA

    AMAR PELA METADE

    SAO TOME & PRINCIPE

    4

    TEAM PAIYA

    MAISON B FT. TEAM MAISON B, TEAM 2 POY

    CÔTE D’IVOIRE

    5

    THE CAVEMEN

    MEDICINE

    NIGERIA

    6

    TINARIWEN

    TENHERT

    MALI

    7

    TOOFAN

    DEODORANT

    TOGO

    8

    VESTINE & DORCAS

    YEBO -NITAWALE

    RWANDA

    9

    WAPENDWA MUZIKI

    AMEFANYA MUNGU

    KENYA

    10

    WE ARE NUBIA

    DND (FT. ZAITUNI WAMBUI)

    KENYA

  • BBNaija, Piracy, and the Hidden Cost of Entertainment

    BBNaija, Piracy, and the Hidden Cost of Entertainment

    Adedotun Lawal

    We live in an age where everything is just a click away. Music, movies, books, and television shows. It is easy, fast and often free. However, in the shadow of this convenience lies a growing threat that many overlook: piracy. It is not just an issue of right or wrong; it is a quiet, consistent erosion of Nigeria’s entire creative economy, an economy that has given the world Nollywood, Afrobeats, and cultural stories that resonate across continents.

    The reality is sobering. A UNESCO report estimates that between 50% and 70% of revenue in Nigeria’s film market is lost to piracy. For every legitimate copy sold, nine others are pirated. This means that for every N1,000 a filmmaker should earn, only N100-500 reaches their pocket. The rest vanishes into the digital ether, stolen by a system that has normalised theft as convenience.

    An illustration of this point is a show like Big Brother Naija, a cultural phenomenon currently driving conversations across Nigeria. Beyond the glitz, drama, and fanfare lies a complex production engine powered by producers, editors, camera operators, sound technicians, costume designers, writers, marketers, and countless others. Months of planning, coordination, and creativity go into delivering the daily entertainment millions enjoy. But when this content is illegally streamed on Telegram channels, Instagram stories or pirate sites, it denies every single person on that production chain the value of their labour.

    The problem spans Nigeria’s entire creative ecosystem. Nollywood produces approximately 2,500 films annually and employs over one million Nigerians, making it a significant contributor to the country’s economy, which faces high unemployment. Yet the world’s second-largest film industry loses approximately $2 billion to piracy every year. Think about what $2 billion could do, how many more films could be made, how many more jobs could be created, and how many more Nigerian stories could reach global audiences.

    In the music industry, the pain is equally acute. No artist wants their process to be disrupted by leaks and affected by piracy, yet this has become the reality for even Nigeria’s biggest stars. When Wizkid, Davido, or Burna Boy release new music, unauthorised versions appear on countless platforms within hours, robbing them of streaming revenues and undermining the hard work of record labels, producers and promoters who invested in their success.

    The publishing industry faces similar challenges. Nigerian authors watch as PDF copies of their books circulate freely on social media, effectively eliminating the incentive for people to purchase original copies. When a book that took years to write and months to publish can be shared with thousands at the click of a button, what incentive remains for the next generation of writers?

    At first glance, piracy might seem a victimless crime. After all, if someone shares a movie link or uploads a show to Telegram, who gets hurt? The truth is, everyone does. Beyond the loss of revenue, this practice also discourages local and foreign investments, as nobody will want to support an endeavour that may not yield the expected dividends. When content does not generate its expected revenue, budgets are slashed, projects are shelved and jobs are lost.

    What makes this particularly heartbreaking is how normalised it has become. From university campuses to WhatsApp groups, pirated content is shared casually, as though it is simply another way to enjoy entertainment. The ripple effects are anything but casual.

    Consider a typical Nollywood production. Films are shot under conditions that professionals elsewhere would consider impossible, with budgets as little as N15,000,000. When piracy strikes, that already thin margin disappears entirely. The producer who took a loan to fund the film may never recover their investment. The actors who worked for reduced fees, hoping for backend profits, see nothing. The distributors who believed in the project are left counting losses instead of profits.

    The emotional toll on creators cannot be overstated. Take Toyin Abraham’s experience with her 2023 film “Malaika.” After investing N500 million in the production, the actress revealed that piracy of her movie led to panic attacks and hospitalisation. “I wanted to run mad seeing my movie pirated,” she confessed. “I cried and made several calls before she and her team started breaking the links of the ones uploaded.” Her ordeal led to the arrest and prosecution of six suspects for conspiracy, infringement on intellectual property, and cyber-related crimes.

    Abraham’s pain reflects a broader truth about piracy’s human cost. As acclaimed filmmaker Steven Soderbergh once observed, “The problem with piracy is that it is not just about money, but also about the devaluation of creative work. When you steal someone’s movie, you are saying their years of work have no value.”

    For upcoming creatives, piracy creates a hostile environment where talent may never be rewarded. It discourages innovation and growth, sending a message that creativity is not something to be protected; it is something to be exploited. Why should a young filmmaker spend months crafting a story when they know it will be illegally distributed before they can recoup their investment?

    The fight against piracy has seen some victories. Law enforcement agencies have raided piracy rings, and digital platforms have been shut down. Content creators themselves have become more vocal about the impact of piracy on their livelihoods. But this is not a fight they can win alone.

    The responsibility also falls on us, the everyday viewer, reader, and listener. Every time we choose to stream a movie from a suspicious free website, download a leaked album, or share a PDF of a Nigerian book, we are voting against the future of our own creative economy. We are saying that the stories, music, and moments we claim to love are not worth paying for.

    The irony is painful. We celebrate when Nigerian artists win international awards, when Nollywood films get global recognition, and when our books find international publishers. Yet many of us undermine these same industries through our consumption choices. We want world-class entertainment produced on local soil, but we are unwilling to pay for the local soil to remain fertile.

    Every legitimate purchase, every cinema ticket bought, every official stream, and every book purchased from a credible source contributes to the survival of the arts. Nigeria’s creative industries already contribute as much as 1.2 trillion naira each year to the Nigerian economy, but they have the potential to contribute much more if we stop bleeding revenue to piracy.

    The choice is ours. We can continue to treat creativity as free content to be consumed without thought for the creators, watching as our industries struggle to compete globally while we starve them of the revenue they need to thrive. Or we can recognise that every naira we spend on legitimate content is an investment in the future of Nigerian creativity, a vote for more Big Brother Naijas, more world-conquering Afrobeats, and more Nollywood films that make us proud to be Nigerian.

    In the end, piracy does not just steal content; it steals our cultural future. It silences voices before they have had a chance to speak. And if we want to keep enjoying the stories, music, and moments that make us uniquely Nigerian, we must protect the people who create them.

    Lawal, a media professional, writes from Lagos

  • Masai Ujiri’s Giants of Africa Announces Giants of Africa Festival 2025 in Rwanda

    Masai Ujiri’s Giants of Africa Announces Giants of Africa Festival 2025 in Rwanda

    …Weeklong Celebration of Basketball, Entertainment, Culture, And Community Returns to Kigali, Rwanda July 26-August 2; Kizz Daniel, Uncle Waffles and Timaya to Perform, with Additional Acts to be Revealed Soon

    Giants of Africa, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering African youth through basketball, alongside its founder Masai Ujiri, Vice-Chairman and President of the Toronto Raptors, has announced Giants of Africa Festival 2025. Returning to the vibrant city of Kigali, Rwanda from July 26-August 2, the event will bring together 320 young athletes from 20 African nations, and more than 20,000 spectators for a week of community, culture, basketball, education, and entertainment. The festival will unite communities, spark potential, and drive transformative change across the continent.

    “Like these kids, I grew up on the continent,” says Ujiri. “As Africans, we know the landscape of what the kids go through. We know they dream just like we did and it really inspires me because, those kids have so much more talent and intelligence, they have ways to communicate now that we didn’t. This festival is about showing them there is a path. We want them to never stop dreaming.”

    Giants of Africa Festival 2025 will begin with an exhilarating Opening Show, as the athletes unite in an inspiring parade to kick off the weeklong celebration. South African international DJ sensation, Uncle Waffles, MTV Video Music Award-winning choreographer, Sherrie Silver, and Rwandan singer and songwriter, Kevin Kade will bring electrifying performances as Ujiri and special guests welcome all to the festivities. The awe-inspiring event will mark the beginning of life-changing journeys for Africa’s leaders of tomorrow.

    Taking place across Kigali Sports City’s BK Arena, Amahoro National Stadium, Petit Stade, and Paralympic Gymnasium, the festival will showcase the full potential of Africa’s sports and entertainment ecosystem, highlighting its social and economic value for the next generation and the continent at large. Giants of Africa Festival 2025 will also serve as the grand opening of Zaria Court. Founded by Ujiri, the new mixed-use sports, entertainment, and cultural district includes an 80-room hotel, sports bar, basketball court, event space, retail outlets, gym, five-a-side football pitch, and outdoor public areas.

    The festival will conclude with a spectacular Closing Concert featuring performances from Nigerian Afrobeats artist Kizz Daniel and award-winning Nigerian singer/songwriter Timaya. Celebrity guests in attendance throughout the week will include Chris Tucker, Candace Parker, Robin Roberts, Chiney Ogwumike, Didier Drogba, Michael Blackson, Boris Kodjoe and more. Additional performers for both the Opening Show and Closing Concert will be announced in the coming weeks.

    Since 2003, Giants of Africa has empowered youth through basketball, hosting camps and building courts across 20 African countries. The foundation not only teaches game fundamentals but connects young people with inspirational mentors who show how determination, leadership, and integrity can transform dreams into reality. Also central to their mission is basketball’s unique power to transcend barriers and unite diverse communities. The Giants of Africa Festival is a culmination of this vision, featuring a weeklong youth basketball camp and tournament that brings together young men and women from 20 nations. Youth campers will represent Senegal, Nigeria, Cameroon, Mali, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Benin, Gabon, Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Tanzania, D.R. Congo, Somalia, Ethiopia, Morocco, Botswana, and South Africa. Giants of Africa and NBA/WNBA coaches and personnel will lead training sessions, with assistance from local coaches from the participating countries. A round-robin tournament will determine which countries and players will compete in the festival’s championship and all-star games.

    This year, Giants of Africa will also present its inaugural Threads of Africa Fashion Show, celebrating culture, fashion, and design from across Africa. The show will spotlight the work of three talented fashion designers, each from a different region of the continent. Cameroon’s Hortense Mbea (Afropian: https://apo-opa.co/4d97Od4), Niger’s Alia Baré (Alia: https://apo-opa.co/3GMuRyk), and Rwanda and South Africa’s Nyambo (Masa Mara: https://apo-opa.co/4377tTx) will each present their new collections, and come together for a moderated discussion.

    Additionally, festival highlights include the International Youth Day Forum, presented in partnership with the Imbuto Foundation, Ministry of Youth and Arts and ALX, bringing together over 2,000 Rwandan youth and festival campers to hear from esteemed leaders. The Women’s Community Outreach Program will take place in Rwanda and across all 20 represented countries, offering leadership and education sessions in local communities to empower women and girls with knowledge, resources, and inspiration.

    Giants of Africa Festival 2025 follows the inaugural Giants of Africa Festival(https://apo-opa.co/42RZZFe) which took place in Kigali in 2023 in celebration of the non-profit’s 20th anniversary. The event united over 250 youth basketball players from 16 African nations, drew in over 14,000 spectators, and saw an estimated $1.5M invested into Kigali’s local economy. The festival culminated in a closing concert featuring performances from Afrobeats icon, Davido, Queen of Afrobeats, Tiwa Savage, Rwanda’s own Bruce Melodie, and South African superstar, Tyla. It was a beacon of unity, inspiration, and transformation that ignited the continent. Building upon their bold ambitions, Masai Ujiri and Giants of Africa are poised to make an even more powerful statement in 2025.

    Tickets for Giants of Africa Festival 2025’s Opening Show and Closing Concert will go on sale beginning Thursday, May 8 at 3:00PM Central Africa Time. To learn more about the festival, its other initiatives and to purchase tickets or VIP and corporate packages, please visit www.GOAFestival.org or email info@giantsofafrica.org.                

  • Feature- Diversified Refreshments, Unified Lifestyles: The Nigerian Breweries Recipe of True Joy

    Feature- Diversified Refreshments, Unified Lifestyles: The Nigerian Breweries Recipe of True Joy

    Rewind to 2nd June, 1949 when the first bottle of beer rolled out of the bottling line of the Nigerian Breweries Lagos brewery in Iganmu. It was a bottle of Star Lager Beer, marking the history of beer in Nigeria, a reason the brand is fondly called ‘the beer that birthed all beers”. Since then, Nigerian Breweries Plc has come a long way, shining like a star as the home of great brands.

    Regarded as Nigeria’s foremost brewing company, with products formulated and brewed under the highest quality standards and procedures, the company boasts a rich portfolio of high-quality lager (Star, Heineken, Gulder, Goldberg, Desperadoes, Life, etc),  non-alcoholic beverages (Maltina, Amstel Malta, Fayrouz, Zagg, Climax Energy Drink etc), stouts (Legend), and recently, wines and spirit, with its acquisition of Distell Nigeria, expanding the quest to satisfy the diverse needs of its consumers by creating a suitable beverage that meets their tastes and occasions.

    Refreshing Lives

    Beyond the availability of premium brands that have delivered satisfying, refreshing and crisp taste for the consumers’ enjoyment is a company that has dictated the taste and entertainment lifestyle of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora through its passion to win with Nigeria. 

    From building signature brands that have become status symbols in social settings, Nigerian Breweries continue to thrive on quality, ensuring a brand positioning that solidifies it as the pacesetter in the Nigerian beverage industry. With an understanding that creating products that get people’s appeal is not enough, the company personalised each brand, blending to social settings, tapping into people’s desires, thus revealing the dynamism, and the result- a strong embrace that continues to brew a culture of brand loyalty.

    Enhancing Lifestyles

    Looking back in time, the Maltina Dancehall, in the spirit of ‘sharing happiness’ brought so much joy to Nigerian homes with everyone glued to the screen to watch arguably the biggest ever dance show to grace Nigerian screens. It pushed the themes of love and family bond, making Nigerians see Maltina as the perfect drink to bring people together. The programme was so accepted that till date, Nigerians still long for a come-back because of the cherished family moments, the competitive spirit and the creation of new dance styles.

    In its bid to uplift the Nigerian entertainment scene, the company launched the landmark Star Quest, a music talent show platform aimed at discovering and showcasing Nigeran talents. It recorded enviable success with the discovery of some present-day entertainment heavyweights like Asa, Kcee, Diamondz, Jukebox Band, The Pulse, etc. Its cousin, Star Trek, an annual music tour/ concert to reinforce brand experience while promoting and showcasing Nigerian talents further enhanced its impact as winners of Star Quest along with other top Nigerian musicians perform at designated locations. Also, there was the mother of all concerts in Star Mega Jam, an annual music event which featured both international and local artists from 2000 to 2010 before it was rested due to logistic issues.  This venture opened up the Nigerian music scene and contributed immensely to the growth the entertainment industry is enjoying today. It redefined entertainment in Nigeria with the presence of international music royalties like Awilo Logomba, Shaggy, Usher, Koffi Olumide, 50 Cent, Ja Rule, Kevin Lyttle, LL Cool J, Akon, Kanye West, T-Pain, Nelly, Nas, Busta Rhymes and Ludacris headlining events in Abuja and Lagos, where the concerts were held to world-class acclaim of electrifying performances and massive turnout along with local artistes. 

    The company continues to stamp its essence on Nigerian culture and lifestyle, crossing the divide of brand-related entertainment in brand ambassadorship of music stars and actors with Wande Coal, Burna Boy, Flavour, Phyno, Mr Macaroni, Odunlade Adekola among others.

    Bringing Back Highlife Music

    In 2017, under the sponsorship of Life Continental Beer, Nigerian Breweries Plc announced its commitment to the promotion and celebration of highlife music in the South East with Hi-Life Music Fest. It sent the region wild as a way of bringing the rich genre of music back to the mainstream with local talents delighted that they have found the stage to rise to stardom like their legends in Osita Osdadebe, Oliver De Coque, Celestine Ukwu and many others. The festival has been a success and continues to wax stronger each year with the announcement of a new highlife king with Umunnakwe Nwajiaku the winner of the last edition. There are other consumer engagement platforms too sponsored by Life Lager in the East- Life Progress Booster and Umu Oganiru Festival- in the South East as platforms to deepen the values of progress that the brand and the people of South East Nigeria share.

    Empowering the African Film and Creative Industry

    Like a colossus, Nigerian Breweries through its premium brand Amstel Malta carried the weight of Africa’s entertainment industry on its magnificent shoulders with the headline sponsorship of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) for ten years. Since the inception of the awards in 2013, Amstel Malta continues to champion African creativity and excellence in the film and creative industry. In celebration of the event’s milestone in 2024, the brand sponsored three award categories — Best Movie, Best Digital Content Creator and the Best Indigenous Africa Magic Original awards, demonstrating its support and celebration of the best of African film and entertainment. A commitment that is enabling the growth of the African film and creative industry, celebrating the brilliance, innovation, and sheer magic of African storytelling on screen.

    Strutting on the fashion runway

    The presence of Heineken at the Lagos Fashion Week 2024 with the introduction of the 45cl bottle and unveiling of the Heineken 45 Collection under the theme ‘Urban Refresh’ was a math made in style. An unforgettable experience with 5 leading Nigerian designers who infused Heineken’s creativity, boldness, and the spirit of innovation into the vibrant Nigerian fashion industry to celebrate the energy of Nigerian city life, inspired by fast-paced living and dynamic creativity. It was the brand’s unique way of recognising and supporting the growth of a vibrant fashion industry, and simultaneously telling a story of a brand that not only delivers quality but also enhances cultural experiences, one refreshing sip and stylish collection at a time.

    Rooting for Culture

    As a company that values and celebrates Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage, Ace Roots was one of the partners that brought then the 2024 celebration of Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu Ode to life. The festival is a significant cultural event which featured colourful parades, traditional music, dancing, and displays of cultural heritage. Ace Root showcased its dedication through engaging activities, interactive sessions, with festival attendees getting a first-hand experience of the essence of Ace Roots through special sampling sessions and cultural displays that highlighted the drink’s natural ingredients and traditional roots.

    Brewing the Joy of True Entertainment

    The company has been renowned for bringing happiness to its customers, supporting various entertainment activities. A notable one was in 2021, when it made Christmas merry across the country from sponsoring thrilling concerts from the 16th to the 30th which included Livespot X Festival, the Flytime Festival, the Orange Concert, Rhythm Unplugged, Stacked December among others which were headlined by heavyweights including PSquare, Wizkid, DJ Spinall, Neyo, Asa, Davido, Patoranking, Burna Boy, and other talented artistes.

    With its expansion beyond beer in the acquisition of Distell Wines and Spirits, Nigerian Breweries remain committed to serving its recipe of true joy to Nigerians in diversified refreshments that encourage unified lifestyles of value, relaxation and fun.

  • CNN’s African Voices Changemakers meets the couple behind Flytime Fest

    CNN’s African Voices Changemakers meets the couple behind Flytime Fest

    In the latest episode of African Voices Changemakers, CNN’s Larry Madowo meets Cecil and Keke Hammond, who run Rhythm Unplugged and Flytime Fest, a concert where many now world-famous Nigerian artists performed for the first time. CNN got front row seats to Flytime’s 20th anniversary show and spoke to the power couple about their impact on the global Afrobeats movement.

    Cecil Hammond launched Flytime’s flagship show, a one-night concert called Rhythm Unplugged, in 2004. He explains that this pioneered and revolutionised the rise of Nigerian music, saying, “Most of the big artists you have today, Flytime actually started their first individual shows. Nobody ever used to do that, and it was a big risk we were taking.”

    Cecil tells Madowo about how they devised the idea for Rhythm Unplugged, “Rhythm Unplugged came about 20 years ago when I realised there were no concerts for mainstream artists. We had to find a platform for them to come perform and for the audience to come see their favourite artists basically. Back then comedy was way bigger than music.”

    He explains that once people started listening to more Nigerian music, radio stations had a demand for more music and artists. He says, “The first show we had over 30, 40 artists and comedians literally on the first show. And it was sold out. We had our next show three months later, and the next show four to six months later because it kept on being a success, a success, a success. And it just shows that this is what people, Nigerians wanted to see.”

    Long before becoming Flytime’s Chief Operations Officer, Keke Hammond says she admired the brand’s dedication to promoting Nigerian talent and got her first Flytime experience around 2007. She tells Madowo, “I’d heard about the franchise, about Rhythm Unplugged and how it was this platform for comedians and Nigerians to perform and how there’s been nothing like it in the Nigerian scene. And most importantly, he didn’t have international artists on the bill deliberately, and I loved that.”

    In Lagos, Flytime Fest is already a Detty December staple, and Cecil and Keke aimed to seal their legacy with their 20th anniversary show. Keke discusses the importance of this celebration to commemorate the contributions Flytime has made towards Nigerian music, “There are so many different things that Rhythm Unplugged and Flytime Fest has contributed to, where Afrobeats is now from a global standpoint. I would say that I’ve seen that growth from our point of view as well as from the artist’s point of view. And then there’s also now the inclusion of international artists. Why? Because our artists are global, right? And so, if our artists are going to the US or to the UK or to Asia, why can’t we also bring the people that they’re working with who they are featuring on their music to Nigeria as well.”

    Nigerian artists like Davido, Tems, and others are making waves outside the country. They’ve sung on stages around the world, but before the global acclaim, Flytime was a starting point. Cecil reminisces on the array or performers he has witnessed at Flytime over the years, “I’ve seen over 300 artists perform on our stage, and only like 10 to 20 or 20% of them are still around right now.”

    Keke continues on Davido’s journey, “If we think about someone like Davido, he started when he was very young, but didn’t have the platform. Thankfully there was a place like Rhythm Unplugged, which was his first stage. So, we want to continue to be a part of those stories because they are so beautiful.”

    The Hammonds say they invest a lot of resources to provide the artists and the crowd with a memorable experience. Keke elaborates, “Our artists are global, right? And they’re performing at like Madison Square Garden, the O2 and things like that. So, when they come here, they don’t want to reduce their production quality. So, the onus on us to make sure that we get the equipment from wherever to be able to deliver that same quality.”

    Looking to the future, the couple say they wish to progress by expanding outside of Nigeria, “I would say that our evolution is evolving, right? Beyond just the curation of festivals. There are other ecosystems that will be integrated into the creation or curation of events.”

    African Voices Changemakers airs on CNN International at the following times:

    Saturday 8th March 2025 at 0830 WAT and 1200 WAT

    Sunday 9th March 2025 at 0430 WAT and 1800 WAT

    Monday 10th March 2025 at 0300 WAT

    Saturday 15th March 2025 at 0730 WAT and 1100 WAT

    Sunday 16th March 2025 0330 WAT and 1800 WAT

    Monday 17th March 2025 0300 WAT

  • 3X Grammy® Nominated Superstar Davido Unleashes Cinematic Video for “Na Money”(Feat. The Cavemen. & Angelique Kidjo) from Chart Topping Studio Album, “Timeless”

    3X Grammy® Nominated Superstar Davido Unleashes Cinematic Video for “Na Money”
    (Feat. The Cavemen. & Angelique Kidjo) from Chart Topping Studio Album, “Timeless”

    Today, GRAMMY® nominated King of Afrobeats, Davido, extends his reign releasing new visuals for “NA MONEY” (ft. The Cavemen. & Angelique Kidjo) his third hit single off the 2023 record-breaking album “Timeless”.

    Shot on location in Paris, the “NA MONEY” cinematic visuals opulently showcase Davido entertaining friends and family at a majestic chateau and features stand out performances by Nigerian rising duo The Cavemen. and Grammy-winning African icon, Angelique Kidjo. Watch HERE.

    Today’s release represents just another yearly highlight for the GRAMMY® nominated Nigerian superstar, in what has been an incredible year. Beginning with his early 2023 release of his fourth studio album “Timeless”, Davido has continued to smash records and dominate the charts with genre leading achievements including: “Timeless” holding the prestigious title of being the biggest African album in Apple Music history, dominating Apple Music’s Global Daily Top 100 with a groundbreaking nine simultaneous African songs. “Timeless” also reached an extraordinary #2 position on Apple Music’s US Albums chart, making it the highest-charting African album to date.

    Davido’s success in 2023 wasn’t limited exclusively to the charts, the multi-platinum artist recently announced extending his 2023 sold out “Timeless” tour into 2024 with a live performance at the legendary Madison Square Garden on April 14, 2023, in addition to his massive arena show taking place at The O2, London on Sunday, January 28, 2024. Both of which follow the ground-breaking sold-out A.W.A.Y Festival which took place at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on November 18, 2023.

  • Davido and Adekunle Gold to Headline Africa’s Biggest Youth Festival, The BlockParty

    Davido and Adekunle Gold to Headline Africa’s Biggest Youth Festival, The BlockParty

    The BlockParty, Africa’s premier youth festival, today announced Davido and Adekunle Gold (AG Baby) as the headlining acts for its blockbuster holiday events. The much-anticipated festivals are scheduled to take place on Boxing Day – December 26, 2023, and New Year’s Day – January 1, 2024. 

    Davido will headline the Island iteration of the BlockParty, themed ‘Timeless BlockParty’. 

    The Afrobeats superstar is coming off a big year, where he earned three nominations for the 2024 Grammy Awards. The nominations include ‘Best Global Album’ for his fourth studio album, Timeless. The other two nominations are for ‘Best African Performance’ for his song, Unavailable (which features Musa Keys) and ‘Best Global Music Performance’ for his song Feel.

    Timeless was also named ‘Album of the Year’ at the African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMAs) 2023.

    Davido also made waves in November, selling out the State Farm Arena in Atlanta for his highly anticipated “Are We African Yet?” Festival (A.W.A.Y. Festival). Following the success of the event, the City of Atlanta, in a letter signed by the Atlanta City Mayor, Andre Dickens, proclaimed November 18 as ‘Davido Day’. The Board also proclaimed November 21 as ‘Davido Appreciation Day’ in Fulton County, Georgia.

    OBO won’t be rocking the Island BlockParty stage alone though. He will be joined by other top talents including Fave, Odumodublvck, Shallipopi, Victony, and Dopecaesar, ensuring a diverse and exciting lineup that reflects the richness of Africa’s music scene. The event will also feature the BlockParty SoundSystem – an exceptional lineup of DJs and hype men, all of whom are celebrated figures in the music and entertainment industry. The BlockParty radio comprises budding disc jockeys – DJ Titanium, Maze x Mxtreme, and SmallztheDJ – who are sure to captivate audiences and keep the dance floor alive and kicking all night long. The trio of hype men – Livewire, MIA, and Tolu Daniels, will be tasked with engaging the crowd, creating a charged atmosphere, and ensuring every moment is filled with exhilaration and enthusiasm.

    On the other hand, AG Baby will be the marquee act for the Mainland BlockParty’s fifth anniversary, for which the organisers are targeting a mammoth footfall of 24,000 attendees, under the floated moniker #Mission24k. Teo Tequila is back home to Nigeria, following the success of his North American tour, to celebrate “Tequila Ever After” — Gold’s debut album with his new record label, Def jam records.

    “We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Davido and Adekunle Gold as our headliners for this festive season’s BlockParty events,” said Tobi Mohammed, Founder, BlockParty and Managing Partner at The Plug. “This is our way of saying thank you to all those who have been a part of our journey since 2018, and it is symbolic of the amazing plans we have for the festival in 2024. We are confident that these two events will be a highlight of the year for all attendees.”

    Indeed, 2023 has been a big year for the BlockParty, as the festival expanded its operations to the USA in November by hosting a sold-out event in Atlanta. The feat flagged off the ‘World Is A Block’ initiative, which underscores the BlockParty’s commitment to creating a universal platform where the vibrant spirit of African youth culture, music, and creativity can thrive.

    Produced by TopBoy, sister company of The Plug, the BlockParty targets further expansion in 2024, with mooted plans to host festivals in Atlanta, Kenya, London, and New York.

    Fun lovers can stay up to date on information regarding venue and performer announcements for the upcoming events by following the BlockParty’s social media handles @MainlandBlockParty and @IslandBlockParty. 

  • Feature: Homecoming with DECEMBERISSAVYBE 2023: FirstBank reinforces Support for Family, Entertainment and Nation Building

    Feature: Homecoming with DECEMBERISSAVYBE 2023: FirstBank reinforces Support for Family, Entertainment and Nation Building

    By Bolaji Israel 

    December is a month filled with joy, celebration, and reunions. It is a time when families come together, friends reconnect, and the spirit of giving and love is in the air. 

    In Nigeria, December holds a special place in the hearts of its people, and FirstBank, the country’s premier and leading financial institution, understands the significance of this festive season. With its annual campaign, “December Issa Vybe,” FirstBank aims to reinforce its relentless support for family fun time, creative industry, entertainment, and nation building.

    The annual “December Issa Vybe” program remains a remarkable and enduring testament to FirstBank’s commitment to promoting family bonding, creative arts, entertainment, and the overall development of Nigeria. It seeks to create an enthralling and memorable experience for customers in the Yuletide season as they bond with family and friends, whilst connecting with their favourite superstars.

    This campaign, which runs for about two to three months towards the end of the year, features the bank’s sponsorship of premium entertainment events such as shows, plays, operas, musicals, concerts, and dramas – all centered around the yuletide season.

    Through the annual FirstBankIssaVybe campaign, FirstBank sponsors an array of the hottest and coolest entertainment platforms across music, fashion, and arts during the month of December, with massive ticket giveaways to premium events.

    The campaign which started in 2018 is already generating ripples across the cities with Nigerians across ages anticipating the new trick FirstBank will pull out from the hat this year.

    One of the highlights of the annual campaign is the provision of free tickets to Nigerians, allowing them to enjoy these high-profile events without any financial burden.

    Nigerians who are affected by the dire impact of the harsh economic situation of the country can also breathe a sigh of relief and blow some steam in December courtesy of FirstBank. 

    Over the years, FirstBank has consistently supported and sponsored annual festive period concerts featuring Africa’s biggest music super stars. Artists like Kizz Daniel, Davido, Burna Boy, Asake and numerous others have graced these events, creating unforgettable experiences for music enthusiasts. 

    As part of its commitment to customer satisfaction, FirstBank rewards its loyal customers by offering them free premium tickets to these A-list entertainers’ events. This gesture not only showcases the bank’s appreciation for its customers but also allows them to enjoy world-class entertainment alongside their favourite artists.

    The “December Issa Vybe” campaign also embraces the theme of homecoming. Nigerians living in the diaspora who take joy in visiting their home country during the festive season and spending quality time with their families and friends are an integral part of this initiative. 

    Through the move, FirstBank approaching its 130th year aims to create opportunities for family reunions and bonding, particularly for those returning from the diaspora. The bank recognizes the importance of fostering strong family ties and believes that great entertainment plays a vital role in bringing families together.

    The financial giant recognises the emotional significance of homecoming and seeks to make it an unforgettable experience for these individuals. Through various activities, events, and promotions, the bank ensures that Nigerians in the diaspora feel connected to their roots and are able to create lasting memories during their time in the country.

    Looking ahead to the 2023 edition of “December Issa Vybe,” FirstBank promises an even more awesome experience for everyone involved. The bank is committed to continually improving and exceeding expectations, ensuring that Nigerians have something truly spectacular to look forward to. 

    From the foregoing, FirstBank’s “December Issa Vybe” campaign remains a resounding testament to the bank’s unwavering support for family, entertainment, and nation building. By sponsoring premium entertainment events, providing free tickets, and embracing the theme of homecoming, FirstBank aims to create memorable experiences for Nigerians during the yuletide season. 

    As Nigerians eagerly anticipate the 2023 edition, FirstBank’s commitment to delivering an extraordinary experience signals a clear indication of dedication to enhancing the well-being and happiness of customers. So, Nigerians should get ready for an unforgettable December filled with joy, entertainment, and the spirit of togetherness powered by FirstBank. 

    In conclusion, more details about the upcoming campaign will soon emerge on social media, keeping the public informed and engaged.

    The FirstBank #DecemberIssaVybe and #FirstBankIssaVybe giveaway fest is again ready to reward old, new and potential customers with tickets to premium events around Lagos.

    And yes, to attend these events, just follow FirstBank on any of its social media pages – Facebook: First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Instagram: @firstbanknigeria, and Twitter: @firstbankngr – lookout for the posts announcing the giveaway and follow instructions to experience maximum party #vybes this season.

  • Expert advocates bridging gap between industry and academia

    Expert advocates bridging gap between industry and academia

    Executive Vice Chairman of Verdant Zeal Group, Dr Tunji Olugbodi, has said bridging the gap between industry and academia is crucial to addressing low productivity and poor economic growth. According to the expert, there exists a very low and slow translation of research work into marketable products.  He described the coming together of the two sectors as a fertile ground for innovation. 

    Olugbodi, an alumnus of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, delivered the institution’s  Faculty of Social Sciences Open Lecture on Thursday, November 16, 2023. It had as theme: “Collaborative innovation: bridging the knowledge and research gap between industry and academia”. 

    He decried the questionable and slow pace of academia-industry collaboration, adding that such partnership is imperative in addressing societal problems and shaping the nation’s future. 

    The business mogul said it was vital to address challenges facing the academia to boost its relevance and growth. 

    Olugbodi said the partnership between industry, academia and government is essential for innovation and development, sustainable progress and prosperity. 

    He said industry-academia relations would effectively tackle real-world problems with fresh perspectives, rigorous research and cutting-edge technology. 

    “The pharmaceutical industry frequently collaborates with universities to develop new drugs and treatments. Similarly, the renewable energy sector relies on academic research to advance sustainable technologies. These partnerships not only benefit industries by solving critical problems but also contribute to the well-being of society,” he said. 

    According to Olugbodi investing in beneficial partnerships is a win-win situation for both academia and industry such that the former trains individuals with foundational knowledge, while the latter has the practical experience and real-world insights to absorb them. This, he said, can ensure alignment with labour market needs. 

    He said industries are crucial to innovation and development through job creation, adding that they stimulate economic stability leading to an enabling environment for innovation and investment in research. 

    The convener of the famous Innovention Series, a yearly thought leadership foray dedicated to front-lining new development routes for societal progress, urged the country to tap into the productive capacity of its youths for economic advancement. 

    “The most important weapon for Nigeria’s growth remains its population mined positively. Nigeria has the highest population of youths in the world, with a median age of 18. About 70 percent of the population is under 30 and 42 percent is under 15. Imagine the productive capacity that can be unleashed if well tapped,” he said. 

    He said through entertainment the nation had earned better global recognition through the combined exploits of hip-hop artists including Davido, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, among others,than it had received from political leaders since 1999. 

    Olugbodi stressed the need to nurture and promote academia-industry relationships to ensure a better and more prosperous future for the nation. 

  • The Plug Celebrates 7 Years of Shaping Culture and Nurturing African Talent

    The Plug Celebrates 7 Years of Shaping Culture and Nurturing African Talent

    The Plug, a trailblazing force in reshaping Africa’s burgeoning entertainment and talent management industries, is proud to commemorate a remarkable milestone — its seventh anniversary. Since its inception in August 2016, The Plug has propelled Africa’s cultural renaissance and talent evolution to unprecedented heights. From humble beginnings to becoming a dynamic influencer in the realm of music, live events and sports management, The Plug has left an indelible imprint on how individuals and businesses alike engage with culture and realise fulfilment.

    Co-founded by visionaries Asa Asika and Abiodun ‘Bizzle’ Osikoya, The Plug emerged as a culture advisory and talent management entity that seamlessly bridges the gap between artistic talents, brands, and culture enthusiasts. In a defining moment, 2022 saw The Plug formally merge with TopBoy Entertainment, the brainchild of Tobi ‘Alhaji Popping’ Mohammed, the mastermind behind the renowned BlockParty series. This merger solidified The Plug’s pivotal role in shaping Africa’s dynamic landscape and the business has since scaled to also include music publishing, sports management and production arms.

    The Plug’s remarkable journey is exemplified by its instrumental role in shaping the careers of numerous influential African talents. Its roster includes luminaries such as Davido, Henry Onyekuru, Asisat Oshoala, CKay, Victony, Tobi Amusan, King Promise, BOJ, Bella Shmurda, Focalistic, MazexMxtreme, Raebel, ShineTTW, and Uchenna Kanu. With tailored and strategic support, The Plug has propelled these talents to unprecedented heights in both arts and sports.

    As Managing Partners, Bizzle, Asa, and Tobi share a profound belief in Africa’s boundless potential. Osikoya reflects, “From my early days contributing to this industry, I held on to a vision that has now come alive through The Plug. Our seventh anniversary is a moment of pride as we look back at the tremendous impact we’ve had in empowering talents and brands, while showcasing the best of Africa on a global stage.”

    Speaking on the celebratory occasion, Mohammed, also The Plug’s Chief Operating Officer, reinforces the company’s commitment to promoting Africa’s rich cultural heritage through entertainment. “Culture and entertainment hold the power to transcend boundaries and ignite the essence of the African spirit. Over these seven years, we’ve demonstrated our soft power, blazing the trail for like-minded companies to follow and setting a new bar of fulfilment for all our stakeholders. We remain dedicated to advancing African art as a catalyst for unity, pride, and empowerment,” he says.

    As The Plug goes full-throttle into its seventh year, the company aims to push further boundaries, pioneering culture-aligned solutions that set unprecedented standards within the global entertainment sphere. With a steadfast commitment to helping all its stakeholders achieve fulfilment, The Plug’s unique expertise positions it at the forefront of reshaping Africa’s consulting landscape in the near future.

    “Our journey goes beyond entertainment; it’s about amplifying voices, nurturing creativity, and creating growth opportunities. Africa’s pool of untapped talent is rich with incredible stories waiting to be celebrated. While we’ve collaborated with exceptional artists and contributed our quota to growing Africa’s music ecosystem, our mission continues,” Asika concludes.