Notice: Function _load_textdomain_just_in_time was called incorrectly. Translation loading for the wordpress-seo domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /home/bcm/src/dev/www/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6121 Nigerian celebrities | Zikoko!
People find love, get engaged, and vow before God, family, and friends to stick with their partners until the end of their lives. It’s a big vow, so it makes sense that most people make a big show of it, and these Nigerian celebrities are no different.
From Annie Idibia and Tuface’s destination wedding to Veekee James and Femi Atere’s 4-day celebrations, here are our favorite celebrations of love (in no particular order).
Banky W and Adesua Etomi
Photo credit: BellaNaija
Shortly after their debut as an on-screen couple in Kemi Adetiba’s 2016 The Wedding Party, Banky, and Susu popped out with an engagement and introduction.
The couple finally tied the knot in November 2017 and had everyone following their wedding hashtag, #Baad17, just to get a glimpse of the bride and groom in their gorgeous outfits on their special day.
Made Kuti and Inedoye Onyenso
Photo credit: Nairaland
We were all minding our business on a hot Wednesday morning when Made Kuti, and Inedoye’s gorgeous faces filled our timelines. As though their combined beauty and love weren’t enough, the groom’s mum – Funke Kuti – and her friends decided to show up and show out and almost had half the internet crashing the event.
Adekunle Gold and Simi
Photo credit: BellaNaija
After years of watching us ship the love of his life with Falz because of the small chemistry they shared, Adekunle Gold and Simi tied the knot in January 2022. It was an intimate ceremony, and they only shared a glimpse of their special day with us, but they looked incredibly in love and happy.
Veekee James and Femi Atere found love and decided to paint Lagos and its inhabitants red. People keep shouting that it was a 4-day affair, but did they stop to consider that maybe THE couple didn’t want to squeeze all their ceremonies into one day? Perhaps they wanted the whole world to see their ten outfits over those four days and know that their love is not just an anyhow kind of love.
Annie Idibia and Tuface
Photo credit: Mandynews
Before everyone was trending wedding hashtags and attending celebrity weddings via Instagram Live and Snapchat, we were attending Annie Idibia and Tuface’s wedding via television.
In 2013, the long-term couple said their vows before friends, family, and their online in-laws at the Jumeirah beach resort in Dubai.
Tee-Billz and Tiwa Savage
Photo credit: LoveweddingsNG
This couple may have called it quits, but their wedding would forever live rent-free in our heads.
A custom iPhone with the couple’s initials, Toolz DJing, a car gift from Don Jazzy, and doves being released after the vows. Tee-Billz and Tiwa Savage had the most exclusive fairytale destination wedding in 2014. If they could tell us who their planner was, that’d be great.
Davido and Chioma
Photo credit: BellaNaijaWeddings
We were promised an #Assurance2020 but got a #Chivido2024, and it couldn’t have been better. Davido and Chioma Rowland were traditionally married in a big AF wedding on June 25, 2024. There were so many people willing to celebrate the couple’s love that we’re low-key surprised the venue could take them all.
The king of boys popped out with her boo, Ghananian-Nigerian music executive, creative entrepreneur, and media solutionist Oscar Heman-Ackah, and got traditionally married in 2022. Half of Nollywood was in attendance at the ceremony, and it was a perfect blend of the couple’s multi-cultural backgrounds.
2024’s Ojude Oba festival had its highlights, but nothing matched the buzz over Farooq Oreagba’s appearance. The internet boys and girlies went wild over his Yoruba demon-risque regalia and the surprise of a full-sleeve tattoo on a middle-aged business executive.
If the billionaire’s body art has inspired you to get inked, these Nigerian celebrities might give you more tattoo ideas.
Tekno
Tekno has over ten tattoos ranging from letters to names of special people and insects. The coolest? This mic etched on his leg.
Tiwa Savage
Ever doubted Mama Jamjam’s claim of being Africa’s bad gyal? Her “up in your face” arm tattoo will prove you wrong. The singer debuted a full-sleeve abstract tattoo in 2021 and flaunts it regularly.
Olamide
One of the few Nigerian music stars with a facial tattoo that doesn’t seem out of place, Olamide has a minimalist cross etched beside his eyes.
He also sports an Oduduwa head tattoo on his leg.
Wizkid
Big Wiz has between 15 and 30 tattoos featuring letters, floral patterns, and symbols of the moon and cross. He made headlines in December with a $10k “PRAY” tattoo on his neck.
Asake
The first thing you’ll notice about Asake is the unmistakable tattoo of his name across his neck. The bold tattoo is part of a collection that includes letterings and celestial art, among others. In an interview with GQ, he revealed he got his name tattooed during a time of uncertainty about his music career.
[ad]
Burna Boy
Odogwu isn’t a stranger to going under the needle, having covered almost every inch of his body. From stylistic letterings to celestial drawings, cannabis plants, and Nigeria’s Coat of Arms, he has a lot of ink. His coolest art, however, might be the bold “African Giant” lettering on his belly.
Davido
The 30BG crooner loves his body art and is conspicuous about it. His tattoos include bold “Sweet Mother” and “Imade” drawings on his arms and the names of other important family members.
The hyper-realistic drawings of his kids, Imade, Hailey, and late Ifeanyi, stand out the most.
Candy Bleakz
Dragon Lady might be the Nigerian female superstar with the most tattoos. She has a full-sleeved Japanese dragon tattoo overlapping a geometric pattern and a drawing of Holy Mary on the same arm. Her collection includes minimalist drawings on her neck and lettering on her hands.
Iyabo Ojo
The actress has always been part of the tattoo club. She’s got a coloured petal on her arm and a coloured crown on her chest.
Toyin Lawani
The celebrity fashion entrepreneur’s cleavage features a coloured butterfly overlapping her name, “Tiannah.” It’s probably her most recognised inking.
DJ Sose
When it comes to the coolest facial tattoo in the Nigerian entertainment industry, nothing comes close to DJ Sose’s signature ink covering half of his face.
Tonto Dikeh
The Nollywood actress set the internet ablaze in 2011 when she debuted her back tattoo. It’s a hyper-realistic drawing of a fiery-looking flower girl with fingers piercing a heart. She also has a hyper-realistic drawing of her pet dog on her arm, among other inkings.
Poco Lee
The dancer has between 10 and 15 tattoos, with full-sleeve inkings on both arms and other lettering scattered throughout his body. But his coolest has to be the drawing of his mum on his leg.
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu
The media personality has gone under the needle quite a few times, with inkings on his chest and arms. His coolest tat, however, might be the iconic Wolverine stripes on his right arm.
Davido recently faced backlash for launching a meme coin that plummeted just a day after its release. The crypto venture marks one of the singer’s many attempts to try his hands at something besides music. He’s not the only Nigerian music star exploring side hustles to varying levels of success.
From real estate to nightlife, here are eight top music stars and their side hustles:
Banky W
Banky successfully transitioned into Nollywood, starring in box office hits like The Wedding Party, UpNorth and Sugar Rush. And in 2018, the Yes or No singer went into politics, vying for a seat to represent the Eti-Osa Federal Constituency in Nigeria’s House of Representatives. He went again in 2023 and was unsuccessful on both occasions. He also co-founded Sooyah Bistro, a quick-service restaurant with branches across Lagos, in 2018.
Don Jazzy
When the music executive isn’t minting new talents, managing Mavin Headquarters as founder and CEO, he focuses on Jazzy’s Burger, a restaurant he launched in 2022 after he turned 40. Specialising in burgers, the restaurant has occasionally stirred controversy with its ₦10k starting price. Don Jazzy also ventured into skincare in 2023, launching his line of body soap, Drip Beauty.
Sheyman
The singer has taken a break from music completely. In 2021, he launched his exotic strip club, Secret Palace, in Lagos, attracting heavyweights like Burna Boy, Dbanj and Yhemo Lee. The Paper hitmaker also owns Folixx, a restaurant-style lounge operating on Lagos island.
Peter Okoye (P-Square)
When he’s not making music or performing his hits, the singer manages his lottery company, ZoomLifestyle, which he launched in 2019. In March 2024, he announced the launch of his logistics company, WYN, operating in Calabar, Uyo and Abuja.
[ad]
Mr Eazi
Before he got into music, the Leg Over hitmaker had a flair for business. In 2014, he pitched a tech platform he co-founded, Obiwezy, at the 440 Accelerator. In 2018, Mr Eazi established EmPawa Africa, a talent incubation enterprise, followed by Zagadat Capital in 2021, an investment firm focused on tech startups.
MC Galaxy
Popular for his hit, Sekem, MC is now more active in the culinary realm. In 2021, he launched Sekem Kitchen, an indigenous eatery in Lekki, frequented by celebrity patrons like Davido and Uti Nwachukwu. In 2024, he expanded his venture with a branch in Abuja.
Zlatan Ibile
When he’s not releasing street bangers or managing Zanku Records, the street-hop artist focuses on fashion. In May 2024, he unveiled his clothing line, Zanku To The Word (ZTTW), showcasing streetwear items like jerseys, tees and beanies.
Patoranking
Away from the studio and stage, Patoranking has a side gig as a social entrepreneur. In 2023, he launched The Patoranking Foundation to advance Africa through education and entrepreneurship, providing scholarships and business grants in Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya and Zimbabwe.
Five months into 2024, Nollywood has said painful goodbyes to beloved stars who have played their parts in delighting movie and TV audiences for years. In March, not one but two comic actors passed away, sending a shock wave across the industry. We take a look at the Nollywood actors who have passed away in 2024.
Jimi Solanke
Nollywood actor and dramatist, Jimi Solanke, died on February 5, 2024, aged 81. The actor was reportedly in and out of the hospital since December 2023 over an undisclosed illness. Solanke was a revered actor popular for the children’s show, Tales by Moonlight, on NTA during the late 90s. His other works include Family Scene, The Village Headmaster and Shadow Parties.
John Okafor
Legendary comic actor, John Okafor, died on March 2, 2024, after a two-year-long battle with diabetes. Popularly called Mr Ibu by fans, the actor lost one of his legs to amputation in November 2023.
Mr Ibu was renowned for his comedic roles in Nollywood and his jovial personality in real life. His notable works include Mr Ibu, Police Recruit, Mr Ibu Goes to School and Nicodemus.
Amaechi Muonagor
The veteran actor died on March 24, 2024, aged 61, three weeks after the demise of colleague, Mr Ibu. Muonagor was in and out of the hospital over his battle with kidney disease.
The actor succumbed to death a few days after he solicited financial assistance from Nigerians to facilitate a medical trip abroad. He was one of the leading men in the English-speaking faction of Nollywood around the late 90s and mid 2000s. His works include My Village People, Aki na Ukwa and Igodo.
Adejumoke Aderounmu
Nollywood actress, Adejumoke Aderounmu, passed away on April 6, 2024, aged 40. She became popular for her breakthrough role as “Esther” in Funke Akindele’s comedy series, Jenifa’s Diaries. Before her demise, the actress battled an undisclosed sickness which caused her to take a break from the industry.
Aderounmu started her professional acting career in Tunde Kelani’s Arugba and was featured in movies like Dazzling Mirage, La Femme Anjola and Gone.
[ad]
Pope Odonwodo
Popularly known as Junior Pope, Nollywood actor, Pope Odonwondo died on April 10, days after the death of colleague, Adejumoke Aderounmu. The actor died after drowning in a tragic boat accident while filming in Asaba, Delta state.
Until his demise, he was a force to reckon with in the Eastern faction of Nollywood, popularly called the “Asaba film industry”. Junior Pope got his breakthrough in Nollywood after featuring in Tchidi Chikere’s film, Secret Adventures (2007). Some other notable works include Honey Money, Wrong Initiation and No Way Through.
Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji
The comic actor, famously known as Sisi Quadri, passed away on March 1, 2024, aged 44. Sisi Quadri was one of the leading comic actors in the Yoruba movie industry, loved for his witty and sharp-mouthed characters. Before the actor’s demise, he had crossed into skitmaking, collaborating with content creators like Isbae U, Bimbo Ademoye, Mr Macaroni and many more. His notable works include Anikulapo: The Rise of The Spectre, Seranko Seniyan and Eran Iya Osogbo.
Deji Aderemi
Popularly known as Baba Olofa Ina, veteran Nollywood actor Deji Aderemi died on January 4, 2024, aged 73. He was famous for acting as a traditional chief and Ifa priest in several Yoruba movies. His most recent work was Kunle Afolayan’s Netflix series: Anikulapo Rise of The Spectre. His other notable films include Kabiyesi Olodumare, Ija Omode and Ewe Orun.
Forget that celebrities receive a torrent of DMs from fans. They also often slide into other famous people’s inbox. Imagine Adekunle Gold sliding into Don Jazzy’s DM to beg for a job as a graphic designer. Hard to believe, right?
That’s why we combed through the internet archives to find these seven celeb interactions that went down in the DMs. Which ones were successful and who got aired till eternity? Let’s find out.
Vee Iye
Ex Big Brother Naija housemate, Vee Iye, landed a lead role in Funke Akindele’s Prime Video debut, She Must be Obeyed. But did you know she had to shoot her shot in the DMs. After the series premiered, Vee shared a screenshot of her exchange with Akindele who graciously obliged her request.
Mayorkun
In April 2021, American singer-songwriter, T-Pain, discovered the request folder on Instagram. Apparently, he thought all messages were supposed to go into his direct message inbox, not into a request folder. T-Pain shared a video of all the celebrities he’d unintentionally ignored and somewhere in the flood of DMs was our own Mayorkun. The singer had sent a “Bro! Big fan!” message that never got a response.
[ad]
Spyro
The Who’s Your Guy singer has been on a relentless mission to get Hollywood actress, Meagan Good’s attention via the DM, without success. Spyro first slid into her DM in 2021, expressing interest in working with her. He never got a response. He returned two years later with an even stronger proposition of his undying love.
“I have come again, my love. I know you don’t know me, but my love for you knows no bounds. I will always love you, Meagan. I am blown now and ready to settle down, and it’s you I want before Casava starts to age.”
After the DM exchange went viral, Spryo acknowledged Tunde Ednut who’d also posted the screenshots on Instagram, and thanked him for bringing his dream of being with Meagan a step closer to reality.
Nengi
The BBNaija star announced on national TV that she once slid into ace music producer, Don Jazzy’s DM, and he responded.
“I’ve always loved Don Jazzy. I’ve sent him a DM once, but I honestly cannot remember what the content of the DM was. It was such a long time ago,” Nengi said during a conversation with fellow housemate, Ozo.
Davido
Baba Imade sparked joy among fans in 2020 when he announced that American rapper, Nicki Minaj, would be on his album, A Better Time. But here’s the interesting thing. That collaboration exists because he shot his shot while under the influence of alcohol.
During an interview on Beat FM, Davido narrated how he’d gone clubbing after recording the song and texted Nicki on a whim.
“So I took my phone and DMed her. I said, “Nicki, I got a song for us. It’s gon’ go number one, I promise you” in those exact words. The next morning, I saw a message from her that read, “Send it.” The next day, she sent it…”
Portable
The singer was head over heels after his first-ever DM interaction with Tiwa Savage in February 2023. He’d sent a DM to the singer, showering prayers on her. Tiwa didn’t just respond to his message, she sent a voice note. In typical Portable fashion, he shared a screenshot of the interaction online.
Adekunle Gold
AG Baby slid into Don Jazzy’s Twitter DM multiple times when he was still hustling. At the time, he was a graphic artist who wanted to join the Mohits team to design album covers.
“Good am Mohit Lord, I’m thinking I cud be of GREAT help to the artistic growth of MOHITS. I’m a graphic artist of magnitude. I do album arts.” AG Baby would also send multiple song links, begging the producer to listen and share. He was mostly aired, but once got a “thanks bro” response. Adekunle Gold released the “embarrassing” screenshots in 2020 in an email to his followers.
Content creator, Mr Macaroni is the latest Nigerian entertainer to receive an honorary degree. The comic actor joins a long list of colleagues who’ve been recognised by academic institutions around the world for making strides in their careers.
Honorary degrees are academic recognitions given to individuals who’ve made exceptional contributions to society and their respective fields. Recipients don’t have to spend time in universities to receive them.
Let’s check out the Nigerian celebs who’ve been honoured so far, some even more than once.
Mr Macaroni
On Saturday, November 11, 2023, Mr Macaroni was awarded an honorary Doctor of Creative Writing degree by the Precious Cornerstone University in Ibadan, Oyo State. He received another honorary degree on the same day, from Hillcity University, Benin Republic — a Doctor of Arts degree.
Tiwa Savage
On July 12, 2022, African Bag Gyal, Tiwa Savage, received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from her alma mater, the University of Kent in Canterbury, England.
In her acceptance speech at the institution’s congregation ceremonies at Canterbury and Rochester cathedrals, Tiwa told graduating students: “My prayer is that you one day will stand like this, addressing students because you too have gone out into the world… and you never gave up.”
Pete Edochie
Respected thespian, Pete Edochie, was awarded a Doctorate in Literature and a Doctorate in Arts by the ISTM University in Togo on September 4, 2023. Officials of the institution presented the awards to Edochie at his residence in Nigeria. According to an ISTM rep, he was awarded: “For all the work he has been doing, and pioneering everything that all the younger ones are copying.”
Adesua Etomi
Adesua Etomi-Wellington bagged an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from her alma mater, University of Wolverhampton, on September 6, 2022, for her immense contribution to arts and culture.
“I was taught that talent is great but you need to be hard working to achieve. This award is very humbling for me and I hope that it inspires prospective and current students to pursue careers in the creative industries,” she said while accepting the award.
Nancy Isime
Media personality, Nancy Isime, was conferred with an honorary doctorate in Arts and Philosophy by Prowess University, Delaware, USA, on April 29, 2023. She also received the Leadtime Africa Leadership Prize for Quality Service Delivery and Professionalism from the university on the same day.
In an Instagram post, she wrote: “I pray that God gives us the strength and wisdom to continually excel and be good examples in our respective fields and careers. To many more recognitions.”
[ad]
Omotola Jalade
Iconic actress, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, was awarded an honorary degree by Igbinedion University on November 30, 2019. The actress was recognised for her contributions to “human development and progress at national and international levels”.
Obi Cubana
The nightlife entrepreneur received an honorary degree from the Enugu State University on November 26, 2022. He was awarded a Doctor of Business Administration degree.
Tacha
The reality star and radio host was conferred with an honorary degree by Prowess University in Delaware, US, on July 29, 2023. She was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
“It’s such an honour to receive this honorary DOCTORATE. This is particularly special. A huge thank you to Titans and My Team for all your love & support over the years. We’ve got lots more work to do!!! Dr Tacha,” she wrote in an X post.
Members of K-pop groups take on specific roles and positions besides singing. Just imagine Ayra Starr as the face and centre of this monster rookie band or Itohan of Nigerian Idol 2022 as the “golden maknae”.
That’s why we created PURPLEWINE, a 4th-gen girl crush band made up of seven Nigerian Gen-Z stars. Let’s find out why each member would be in this Nigerian K-pop girl group, what the group would be known for, how well they’d do and how they’d eventually disband.
K-pop group leaders are either the oldest by age or years of training (RM in BTS, Red Velvet’s Irene).
This 24-year-old brand influencer, popularly known as White Melanin, would be the oldest member, making her the default leader. The K-pop company would select Sanchan unnie to be a “visual” (AKA fine girl of the group) because of her modelling background as the face of many beauty brands. Her half-Japanese ethnicity would also be a factor, but the company would constantly deny it. Most likely the last member to be picked, they would train her for about a year to pass as a vocalist, dancer and maybe even rapper. None of that would matter though because what they want are her visuals and existing popularity to promote the group. She’ll always look out for the other members, but like BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, very few people will know she’s the leader as she’ll be completely overshadowed by the “centre” (AKA most popular member).
Positions: leader, visual, sub-vocalist
SANCHAN [@thewhitemelanin]. (2020, August 15). “Every single hairstyle gives me a different look 😌…anyways after this picture I took my wig off and kept [Photograph]. Instagram.
Fave: The Vocalist
The official vocalist position is usually given to the member with the best vocal range or technique (Aespa’s Ningning, EXO’s Baekhyun). That doesn’t mean the other members aren’t technically vocalists too.
Fave (21) is understated but talented and passionate about music. She would’ve joined the company very early on, say ten years before PURPLEWINE’s debut. She would’ve known since she was a kid that she wanted to sing, auditioned to join the company and been the only one of thousands to be picked that year. She would then spend ten years as a trainee, learning to play every instrument (and dance every choreo) in the book while perfecting her vocals, only to be given one position and barely any parts in songs once they debut. Any part she does get would be the most difficult one. But she would kill it, so her stans would dedicate their lives to attacking the company for not giving her more.
The most popular one who’s also usually the one with the most skills. Sometimes, the centre is a different person from the face of the group (In ITZY, Ryujin is the centre and Yeji is the face, while BLACKPINK’s Jennie is both).
It would be love at first sight between the company and the self-assured 19-year-old Ayra. She joined after Fave, but still very early on, as an IJGB, and has been crowned the company’s princess/secret weapon ever since. Considered an ace because of her singing, dancing and visual skills (they’ll probably train her to hold her own as a rapper too) and charisma, the company would start promoting her some months before the debut, as the face of the group. Then, once PURPLEWINE debuts, she would literally be at the centre of the group in everything — photo shoots, music videos, live performances — the person who sings first on all their songs, gets the most lines to sing, and generally be the Beyonce. There’s one in every group TBH.
Positions: centre, face, lead vocalist, lead dancer
Celestial being 👼🏾🤍⭐️ [@ayrastarr]. (2022, May 22). “Stanford gave me all the energy I needed 🤍👼🏾 [Photograph]. Instagram.
The official visual of any K-pop group is the most attractive member or the closest to local beauty standards(IVE’s Wonyoung, Jisoo of BLACKPINK).
Also 19, Diana would’ve been scouted four years earlier, by one of many company reps who roam the streets, for a group they hadn’t formed yet at the time they noticed her. Since her looks more closely represent the Nigerian standard of beauty than Sanchan’s, they would want her to be the main visual of the group. She’d probably want to be a model or actress, but they’d convince her she was made for pop superstardom despite never actually hearing her sing. She would accept and spend the next four years training for it. The company would use her and Ayra to promote the group pre-debut so that by the time PURPLEWINE debuts, they would already be it-girls. However, it won’t take long for stans to accuse her of not having any talent. But hey, Posh Spice didn’t care, so why should she?
Positions: visual, face, sub vocalist
Diana Eneje [@diana_eneje]. (2022, March 24). “Attention 📌 At Ease Dress : @kryptstore [Photograph]. Instagram.Actual evidence of Diana and Ayra promoting PURPLEWINE pre-debut. Photo Credit: BN TV
Susan Pwajok: The Rapper
The cool kid with the best rapping skills (BIGBANG’s G-Dragon, Soyeon of (G)I-DLE).
There’s no evidence that Susan can actually rap. But the actress has major rapper vibes, and I honestly think she should consider it, just in case she’s looking for a side hustle. Anyway, that’s what the company would be thinking when they recruit her for this Nigerian K-pop girl group. After watching one of her many Instagram videos in which she’s being cool as usual, someone in the company would have a vision of her as a pop star and reach out to her. She’d then become a trainee for three to four years, during which time her swag would evolve into great rapping and dancing skills. She’ll end up being the most popular member some years after their debut because everyone loves a good rapper. Side note: Nigeria needs female rappers!
Positions: lead rapper, lead dancer, sub vocalist
Susan Laraba Ganchung Pwajok [@susanpwajok]. (2021, August 22). “main character in his dreams. [Photograph]. Instagram.
Amarachi: The Dancer
The most impressive dancer in terms of technique (LISA of BLACKPINK, Red Velvet’s Seulgi, TWICE’s Momo).
Do you remember Amarachi Dance by Nigerian Willow Smith and winner of the first Airtel Nigeria’s Got Talent, Amarachi Uyanne? Well, Amarachi went viral in 2012 after winning and dropping the song (and another one featuring Phyno). She’s 17 now and has spent the last few years she was out of the spotlight swooped up by the company to train rigorously for a grand comeback as a member of PURPLEWINE. The company would be banking on people’s surprise at her return and transformation to promote the group even more. Not to mention that her obvious dancing talent would’ve been refined to its fullest power level through almost ten years of training, so she would get mad dance breaks during live performances. The devil works hard, but the head of this company works harder.
Position: main dancer, sub vocalist, sub rapper
Amarachi Dance [@amarachidance8]. (2022, May 2). “Today✨🙂 [Video]. Instagram.
Itohan: The Maknae
The youngest one (NewJeans’s Hyein, Mamamoo’s Hwasa)
The company would snatch Itohan right after she’s made a name for herself as the Baby Dragon of the just concluded Nigerian Idol (2022). The 17-year-old would be the voice they’d been searching for to round up the group as the youngest member or “maknae”, with a huge fanbase hungry to support her harder after she failed to win the popular talent competition. They would expect her to unfurl, performing alongside the older, bolder members, so that when the band tragically goes on indefinite hiatus five years in, she would still be young — but experienced and famous — enough to have a long solo career ahead of her. Would they be conniving devils if they put all their eggs in the Ayra Starr “solo takeover” basket? I think not. She’ll sing all dem special bridges, and the stans will tag her “golden maknae” because of her big vocals, a la BTS’ Jungkook.
Positions: main vocalist, maknae
Itohan Agbator [@itohan_agbator]. (2022, May 20). “Short Storytime!!💃🏽💃🏽 A couple of days ago, I got a surprise gift from @shopmakiee_ 🥺. I was completely [Photograph]. Instagram.
Introducing PURPLEWINE
The ult 4th-gen group, PURPLEWINE’s badassery would catch everyone’s attention right away. Their visuals would be unmatched, and since there aren’t that many local female acts, they would be an instant hit, dropping fast and catchy songs with a mostly afro-trap, amapiano sound. Their choreos would be tight; they would invent new moves that would go viral, and put their spin on old popular ones as well. Like every K-pop music video, theirs would smell of Hollywood blockbuster-worthy budgets that would get them huge numbers on YouTube. That would be the beginning of the Nigerian K-pop girl group global invasion. You’re welcome, Don Jazzy.
The Break-Up of an Iconic Girl Group
Unfortunately, the company would mismanage their finances, everyone would vex over the preferential treatment of Ayra, and as soon as their five-year contract is up, only three out of seven would renew. Most would want to return to their actual careers; they’ve acquired the status of global pop icons, so they can now run the acting, modelling or influencer industries too. But don’t worry, OT7 forever!
There you have it. What do you think their fandom name should be? Tweet us or let us know in the comments section below.
We Nigerians are known for our ability to thrive both at home and abroad and that’s what the people on this list have done. They’ve gone on to become household names and create legacies for themselves regardless of their home country.
1. Olly Sholatan
Olly Sholatan is gracing our screens with his beauty and talent in the Bel Air reboot and it’s no doubt he’s heading for the top. We look forward to seeing him on more projects. Olly Sholatan is of Yoruba descent.
2. Jimmy Akingbola
Jimmy is currently playing the character Geoffery on the Bel Air reboot. He’s made a name for himself on British television and doing an amazing job playing Geoffery. Jimmy is a force to be reckoned with and we’re happy to famz him and his Nigerianness.
3. Little Simz (Simbiatu “Simbi” Abisola Abiola Ajikawo)
Little Simz is an actor and rapper. If you need a reason to fall in love with her, watch her on Netflix’s Top Boy and listen to her albumSometimes I Might Be Introvert. Simbiatu is proud of her Nigerian origin and infuses it into her music.
4. Dave (David Orobosa Omoregie)
Dave’s character Modie was an annoyance in Top Boy, but that doesn’t matter, what matters is him being Nigerian and we being proud of him. Dave is from Edo even though he identifies as a British rapper.
5. Rotimi (Olurotimi Akinosho)
Most of us got introduced to Rotimi when he played Dre in the hit tv show Power. Rotimi’s name was a dead giveaway to the fact that he’s one of us. Asides from being an amazing actor, Rotimi is also a musician with the hit song In My Bed.
There’s been no stopping for Uzo Aduba since she showed up on our screen playing Crazy Eyes on Orange is the New Black. She’s proud of her Igbo heritage and also speaks her native language with pride.
7. Araloyin Oshunremi
Araloyin plays Stephan on Top Boy. We look forward to seeing him in more projects and we’ve got to say, we’re really proud of his performance.
8. Sophie Okonedo
Sophie is a biracial woman with a Nigerian father and a white British mother. And damn, she can act pieces!. There’s no character she’s taken on and not aced. Look out for her.
9. Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo delivered an excellent vocal performance in Harriet and also in the movie’s soundtrack Stand Up. She’s an exceptional actress and singer of Edo descent.
10. Yvonne Orji
You’ve got to be living under a rock if you don’t know Yvonne Orji is Nigerian. A day doesn’t go by when she doesn’t remind us of how proud she is to be from the country of delicious Jollof.
Ever looked at your TV and thought to yourself, “Damn, I’ve seen this face before”? Some celebrities look so much alike, there’s a strong chance even their parents might get confused. And for some, you can’t really tell what it is, you just get a feeling that somebody’s father must have played away match in the 1980s. Either way, it’s time to put on your glasses and help us solve this mystery.
Oge Okoye and Future
Nollywood campus bad girl, Oge Okoye, and the father of many nations, Future are two celebrities who look alike in a very weird way. Their case qualifies as one of those where you just can’t put a finger on what the facial connection is, but you just know it’s there. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.
May-D and Adekunle Gold (Pre-AG Baby Glow Up)
Before manifesting DILF energy, Adekunle Gold could’ve easily passed for May-D’s younger brother. Take a close look; you see it, right? There’s just something there. Maybe it’s the lips. Maybe it’s the struggle on their faces. We’ll let you decide.
Funke Akindele and Taraji P Henson
Talented, successful and funny as hell, there’s no denying the fact that Funke Akindele and Taraji P. Henson have a lot in common. But have you noticed that they also look alike? The resemblance is lowkey unsettling.
2Face and Joe El
It’s one thing to look like someone (it was probably a photocopier issue in heaven), but to sound like the same person? No, we think it’s time to interrogate somebody’s dad. Joe El not only looks and sounds like 2face, he was also signed to Kennis Music, the same label that helped 2face breakout post-Plantashun Boiz.
The biggest women-only festival in Lagos is BACK. Get your tickets here for a day of fun, networking and partayyyyy
MI and Kendrick Lamar
One is a short black boy from Jos who came heavy into the Nigerian music scene and changed the rap game forever. The other is a Tupac-inspired rapper from Compton with flows that have won him multiple Grammys. Apart from being goats in their respective industries, MI and Kendrick Lamar also share the same face. Are we hoping for a joint album based on our busy body discovery? Hell yes!
Peter Okoye and Usher
We all saw this one the minute the video for Senorita dropped back in the day. Paul would’ve been on this list, but he decided to switch up his hairstyle and we don’t make the rules.
Nneka and Di’ja
Di’ja and Nneka are not related. We felt the need to say this out loud in the hopes that it would become real to us too. Looking at this picture, it’s easy to assume it’s the same person, but with different backdrops. The universe is playing tricks and it’s not funny at all.
Porsha Williams and Chioma Goodhair
You only need to stare at them for ten seconds to come to the conclusion that they’re related. Not only do they look alike, they’re also reality TV queens and are well-versed in the art of entertaining chaos.
Saucy Santana and Davido
We don’t know if Davido will ever cross-dress, but thanks to Saucy Santana, we know what Baba Imade will look like if he does. Just negodu their beard.
Naomi Campbell and Kika Osunde
The lips, the jawlines, the face, the cheekbones and the hair on these ladies? This is too much. If Queen Naomi hasn’t already gotten her relatives to take a lie-detector test and open up about her estranged relatives, now’s the time.
Naomi Campbell and Vee Iye
We’re still standing on business and maintaining that a lie-detector test is necessary cause ain’t no way. The uncanny resemblance between two Nigerian hotties is more than a mere coincidence. Anyway, Hollywood should better come for Vee or Kika when it’s time to roll that Naomi biopic.
Emeka Ike and Derek Luke
We don’t know what Derek Luke charges these days but if Nollywood needs to cast an identical twin for Emeka Ike, this is the man for the job.
Sam Dede and Ving Rhames
If their post and body buildup isn’t enough to convince you that these two are doppelgangers, look out for these three things: The smirk on their faces, their moustaches and noses.
[ad]
Wole Soyinka and Morgan Freeman
These iconic stars are both in their 80s. Soyinka is older with a three-year gap but looking at these pictures, one could easily assume that they were twin brothers in another life. Whoever plays Soyinka in a biopic might as well do a decent job in a Freeman biopic.
Kanayo O Kanayo and Meek Mills
One is a veteran in Nollywood notoriously loved for his movie roles as a ritualist. The other one is an American rapper who loves causing chaos on the internet. If you ask us what they share in common, it’s the fact that they can play the younger and older versions of each other thanks to their resemblance.
Sambasa Nzeribe and Chadwick Boseman
Rest in peace to the iconic Hollywood actor, Chadwick Boseman, but we need Marvel to cut our Nigerian brother a fat cheque for another Wakanda Forever instalment.
Once money enters, especially celebrity-level money, your life changes in many ways. One of the most obvious being your looks. Let’s see if you can identify these 17 Nigerian celebrities from their pre-fame throwback pictures.
Unless you’re a super fan, you probably don’t know the birthdays of most Nigerian celebrities. Still, you should be able to guess how old they are based on how they look, how they behave and how long they’ve been famous for.
I don’t know what it is about this lockdown period but it seems like Nigerian celebrities made the joint decision to behave anyhow. From Funke Akindele throwing a party in the middle of a pandemic (that requires social distancing to fight) to Burna Boy saying Nigerians deserve to suffer, I’ve come to the realization that Nigerian celebrities will embarrass you every chance they get.
With that in mind, I made this guide on what to do when your fave whose work you really love disappoints you by confidently yarning okoto.
1) Understand that just because a person is famous, doesn’t mean they have sense.
Yes, they’re rich, famous, and talented. Because of this, you put them on a pedestal. Then they fall your hand by promoting the corona/5G collab hoax. Don’t despair. Come to terms with the fact that even with all that talent, their heads might be hollow.
2) Feel free to drag them on social media for it.
Take out your anger by tweeting directly at your fave and telling them that they look like a drug-addicted, acne-riddled foot with dreadlocks. You’ll be surprised at how much inner peace this will bring you.
3) Understand that you can separate the art from the artist.
Does your fave lack the self-awareness necessary to tell when they’re being problematic or yarning premium okoto? Have they done this so much that consuming their craft leaves you feeling like you’re in an abusive relationship? Then ignore the artist and just enjoy the art. And if you can’t do that, then…
4) Mentally cancel them and look for someone else to stan.
Remember not to get too attached, though, because if this period has taught us anything it’s that:
What’s up, Zikoko Fam? It would mean the world to us if you spared a few minutes to fill this Reader Survey. It’s so we can bring you the content you really want!
The 2016 edition of the Toronto Film Festival is gradually coming to an end but not without Nigerians being incredibly proud of our very own Nollywood.
For one, the Nigerian industry made its way to the City to City programme of the festival. Also, some Nigerian celebrities dished out an unbelievable dose of slayage that made us totally love-struck.
1. When Zainab Balogun, gave us just the right amount of slay.
2. Adesua Etomi’s fierce look in her stunning yellow dress.
3. Banky W just keeps it dapper all the time!
4. Mummy Genevieve being her usual fashionably classy self.
5. That time Somkele Idhlama, served legs in this pretty black dress.
6. When RMD showed us he is the definition of fine wine.
7. Beverly Naya totally killed it with her red dress.
8. That time Zainab Balogun proved she was born to slay.
9. When Chidi Mokeme showed he is still a hottie.
10. Somkele Idhlama looked even better in this two piece set.
After making Nigerians throw the hottest Shoki on the dance floor with his hit Single, Woju, Kiss Daniel only saw it fit to drop his debut album in May 2016.
Surprisingly, his new album, New Era, is charting at number 8 on the Billboard World Album Chart, less than 2 weeks after it dropped.
Pretty impressive! Considering the fact that he took the risk of not featuring any major artists on the album.
The chart, which is a weekly ranking of top-selling world music albums implies that Kiss Daniel’s album is doing very well within and outside the country.
Congratulations to Kiss Daniel on this achievement! We hope the album makes it to the big charts sha!
Celebrity interviews are usually interesting because we get to see them off the screen, talk about their careers and maybe their personal lives.
But these days, interviewers go overboard with the ridiculous questions they ask.
In an Interview with Zinnia from HFtv Africa, Omawumi talked about her growth as an artist and life as a mother.
The interview became ridiculous when the interviewer brought up a rumour about the paternity of Omawumi’s daughter. She asked if Omawumi truly bore her daughter for her manager or her husband.
Omawumi denied the accusations and said she chose to be polite because of the person asking.
To make things worse, Zinnia took things further and talked about another rumor. She asked how Omawumi keeps her alleged smoking and drinking habit away from her children.
Like a correct Nigerian woman, Omawumi clapped back at interviewer and asked if she had ever seen her smoking before.
And guess what? She walked out of the interview!
Watch the full interview here:
When people keep asking women how they manage their marriages and careers but will never ask Tuface or Davido how they cope with fatherhood and their careers.
When people ask the most ridiculous and unrelated questions during an interview.
When Zinnia said “You can’t run away from the truth especially when it’s looking at you in the face”.
When Omawumi asked her to still post the video while she was walking out.
We’re waiting for the reason Zinnia will give for this ridiculous interview sha.
Early in the morning of April 28, Tiwa Savage’s husband and former manager, TeeBillz, took to his Instagram page and poured his heart out.
He started by posting an old picture of Tiwa, sharing the first time they met.
“@tiwasavage this was you when I met you with 100% insecurity. I remember when Wale called me about a girl that’s got talent and u told him I wasn’t interested!”
How they fell in love and how much he had sacrificed for her career and success.
“Please just take care of JamJam. I sacrificed my life for you and put in work and my money to your success. You are Tiwa Savage the super star now right. You will never have peace with that fame. Your mother wants to turn me to what she turned your DAD to? I will rather Die. Ask her to confess what’s she’s done to me! All I did was look out for your success.”
He apologised to his children for letting them down…
“I’m sorry Olabisi, Gaetano. Onah and jamil. All daddy wanted to do is be a good father and take care all of you but they won’t let me. I have been fighting this spiritual battle since I was a kid my mother and father can testify. Went from family battle to mother inlaws battle. @tiwasavage ask your mother to confess what she’s done to me.”
And accused Tiwa Savage’s mother of witchcraft.
“Lord knows I tried. I can’t take it anymore. I decided that I wanted to take time out from music business so you and me will not be in the same basket of the music industry. You never supported me for day one every move I made and every project I layer my hands one was going all bad. Thanks to your mum witchcraft! Tell her to confess to you.”
It started to get really worrying when he began posting pictures about depression.
“Lord knows I tried. I have been mentally tortured by my the woman I gave everything to. I’m not perfect but I’m far away from being the best husband. Because when I dint have you paid bills and you took my man hood away.”“You have thrown my clothes out of the house more than 5 times because of the love I have for you I still take it and because of Jamil. I don’t want to go through divorce like my father that has been Married 4times. Your mother humiliated so much that I dint care.”
He thanked Omawunmi’s husband for being supportive and Annie Idibia for bringing him food when Tiwa threw him out.
“Tosin Yosuf aka Omawunmi’s husband. I wish I met you earlier when I just moved to Nigeria. You have been a great friend and brother to me in throne month. I should have done this 2weeks a ago but the joy of being around dint let me.”“You have wife that he not let the music business take the best of her. I know how Mrs Yusuf treats us when we at your house. I feel very at home and praying that I wish my wife can get a life and be like this. All she cares about is next single, her make and hair, her brand and all that BS.”“Pls tell the world have you asked your husband in the last 3yrs if he has eaten. Thank you to Ani Idibia and Anita my Neigbor that provides home cooked meal for me when I needed. That! Yes you became the bread winner when I decided I’m not in business with you again take everything I just want my wife. Tiwa. You will never have peace except my spirits forgives you. Tell your mother to confess what she mounted in the house for you shine with my star. It’s deeper than what you think.”
And accused his wife Tiwa, of sleeping with Don Jazzy, Dr SID and Tuface.
“With in what period of time did you Fuck jazzy and Dr Sid. And I dint care because the love I have for you. I looked at it that we all have a past even when at this same fucking time you were fucking with 2face.”
He even blamed his father for his failed marriages.
“To you Mr Ibrahim Olatunji Balogun Snr………. I tried my best not to be like you but instead of focusing on being a Better person I was worried about not wanting to be like you. I reached out and cry to you as my father but all you care about his yourself and your money…….. I ended up having kids like you by multiple women and my first marriage and only marriage dint make make it to 2years just like the one you had with my mum. Why the Fuck did God Made you my father.”
The worst part was when he said he didn’t have the strength to fight anymore and asked God to accept his soul.
“I’m sorry i must have disappointed you guys . I just dint have the strength to fight this battle any more. May God Forgive me and accept my soul in peace”.
In the last post, he said Tiwa will never find peace in her career.
“I hope the fucking in Tiwa Savage brand brings you peace. I used my money, soul and everything I had for you and everyone knows how I hustled hard with passion for you to get to where you at today. You will never find peace with your career”.
While he was having this meltdown, his friend and best man, Banky W, tried to reach out to him via his Instagram comment section.
This is a real cause for concern considering the fact that their 2nd wedding anniversary was only 24 hours ago.
We hope he gets help soon and resolves whatever problems he and his wife may be facing.
We have crushed on him from the days of Diamond Ring till date. He has managed to remain hot and everyone’s MCM for days!
2. Junior and Pretty
They blessed us with Bolanle and other awesome Nigerian hip-hop style jams in the 90s. The way these men rocked their braided hair at that time, were just goals.
3. Onyeka Onwenu
When she wasn’t being a brilliant actress, she was moving Nigerians with her awesome voice. Her signature low-cut hairstyle just made her look too perfect.
4. Genevieve
She has refused to age and still looks as gorgeous as we can remember. We’re sure you watched movies just to see her pretty face in motion.
5. Daniel Wilson
His haircut, voice and bad boy style were just everything. His Mr Raggamuffin song won hearts and just placed him in the crush zone.
6. Plantashun boiz
Teenagers love boy bands and these guys were the ultimate Nigerian boy band. They had the perfect mix of the cute (Tuface), the one with the best voice (Faze) and the total bad boy (Black Face).
7. Shan George
She blessed Nigerians with her awesome acting and skin like “flawless milk”. To top things, she was the mummy in that Procold ad we all love so much.
8. Saint Obi
When Nollywood started making action movies, this man starred as the protagonist in many of the movies. We all know how people love protagonists and he played the roles too well.
9. Liz Benson
She has always been gorgeous and flawless in her acting of course. Even when she played the evil ghost in Diamond ring, she still managed to be too beautiful.
10. Agbani Darego
Who else deserves a spot on this list than the first African Miss World, Agbani Darego? She will always be the ultimate Nigerian crush with her chocolate skin and flawless smile.
11. Resonance
See, she just sang about God in the softest voice ever. People went to learn Igbo because of her. We wonder where she is now though.
12. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde
One of the hottest Nigerian celebrities of past and present. Even after having her babies, she still managed to keep that hot bod.
13. Ramsey Nouah
He was the ultimate Nigerian teenage crush. His usual onscreen romance with Genevieve was relationship goals of the early 2000s.
14. Jay-Jay Okocha
Simply because he was a beast on the pitch. He knew just how to dribble opponents and he defined rebel when he started rocking his cornrows.
