2024 | Zikoko!

2024 is that drama-filled reality show that is our dear country Nigeria and didn’t need a script. From economic woes to political tension, it’s been a wild ride. But amidst all the Nigerian turmoil and complaints here and there, global pop culture also served as our trusty distraction — a much-needed escape from the chaos.

We’re counting down 15 pop culture moments that stole our attention, sparked joy, and started conversations locally and worldwide. Here are some 2024 pop culture highlights that defined this stressful year.

Films and TV Shows

Shōgun

When Shōgun, a historical TV show, came out, it became viral due to its samurai details and other Japanese culture elements. The show became so popular, viewers made and posted memes weekly in anticipation for new episodes. It ended up bagging Emmy Awards nominations.

Baby Reindeer

The tea is, Baby Reindeer‘s success was largely due to its unflinching honesty and unconventional storytelling approach. Richard Gadd, the mastermind behind the series, bared his soul, drawing heavily from his personal experiences with stalking and abuse. This raw authenticity resonated deeply with audiences, making the show feel more like a mirror reflection of real life than a scripted drama.

Wicked

If you’ve seen recent media coverage of Cynthia Erivo and Arianna Grande, they’re currently on a media tour for a musical film titled Wicked. They co-starred in this film about friendship. It’s an all-round excitement. From its colour and lighting being debated to internet memes, the Glinda/Elphaba fandom, and return to theatre and musical production.

John Boyega and Skepta at AFRIFF 2024

The African International Film Festival held in Lagos had big hitters like international actor John Boyega and international rapper Skepta in attendance at its 2024 edition. Skepta’s short film, Tribal Marks, screened at the event. Boyega had a panel conversation about the challenges new actors face and also hinted he’s working on a new project with Genevieve Nnaji.

Music

Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake

Kendrick Lamar and Drake, two of the biggest rappers in the world finally went at each other after years of sneaking dissing (mostly from Drake) and beef rumours. Their back-and-forth this year gave us nine scathing and earth-scorching diss tracks, four from Drake and five from Kendrick. It’s considered the biggest rap beef ever and Kendrick won, based on public opinion.

“Cowboy Carter”

Last year, Beyoncé released a 27-track country album, paying homage to her Houston and Louisiana roots and showcasing her range as a musician and concept writer. Bey = MOTHER.

The Mavin-UMG deal

In February 2024, an investor and company called TGP exited Nigerian music label and company Mavin Records and sold its majority stake to Universal Music Group (UMG). It was acquired by UMG for nothing less than $125 million in sales price and $150 million to $200 million in valuation. Mavin is still running with Don Jazzy as CEO and Tega Oghenejobo, the newly appointed president and COO. This deal is considered the biggest exit ever in African entertainment.

Big Smoke and Tobacco

Nigerian singer Portable and Nigerian-British rapper and producer Skepta released their song “Tony Montana” in March 2024. The surprising fire song became so huge that it peaked at number one on Apple Music Nigeria and Spotify Music Nigeria charts. The music video also bagged a million views in four days. It remains one of the biggest Nigerian songs of 2024.

Wizkid vs Davido

This year, Afrobeats A-listers Wizkid and Davido went from subtly dissing each other to publicly throwing jabs on social media. The singers resurrected their longtime beef in April after unprovoked clapbacks and rants at his fans and colleagues. Since then, months after months, it’s been a dick swing between them. Wizkid resumed the online beef in October, calling Davido “wack” and “talentless.”

READ: 5 Top Nigerian Creators of 2024

Entertainment

The WAG Movement

The popular movement of Wives and Girlfriends (WAG) of sports celebrities was revived this year in a solo effort by Tolani Benson, the girlfriend of Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka. She was one of the unforgettable moments of the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Face card >>>>

Celebrities lookalike contests

A Timothée Chamalets lookalike competition drew such a large crowd that the police eventually had to break up. But it didn’t stop at Timothée. Doppelganger contests of Drake and Justin Bieber have happened since then.

Nollywood veterans’ call-to-glory

In March 2024, after an amputation and a long battle with his health, Nigerian comedic actor Mr Ibu passed away at 64. In less than 24 hours, another actor, Quadri Oyebamiji (AKA Sisi Quadri) died too.

In less than four months, we lost another Nigerian actress, singer, broadcaster — Onyeka Onwenu. According to the confirmed news report, the singer-songwriter and actress slumped and died after a performance at a birthday party.

Hawk Tuah

In a street interview that went viral in 2024, Hailey Welch, an interviewee, used the slang “Hawk tuah” to describe spitting on it during oral sex. Hawk Tuah >>> Gawk Gawk 3000.

Demure

A TikToker named Jools Lebron went viral in a TikTok video in 2024 where used the word “demure” to explain what it means to keep it “cutesy”. If “Very demure, very mindful” is not the most used statement in 2024, it’s in the top three.

The incarceration of Mummy of Laygurz

In April 2024, Bobrisky was sentenced to six months in prison after she was found guilty of mutilating the Nigerian currency. The saga provoked outrage from concerned Nigerians due to the unusually fast proceedings of the court and the sentencing.

After Bobrisky got released in August, a rumour that she didn’t spend the whole of her sentence in jail sparked controversy about corruption in the Nigerian prison and justice system. Anyway, Bobrisky came back home to a lot of cheers, money donations and boos from admirers and haters alike.

ALSO READ: 10 Nigerians Share their New Year’s Resolutions for 2025
The majority of the conversations around Afrobeats music this year have evolved around producing smash hits and breaking-out superstars. Most agree that we’ve had none in 2024, but some would argue and mention a couple of songs and new artists.

Though the year isn’t overflowing with anthems, as the industry knows it, many gems and excellent music came out this year, and they’re undeniable. Whether they flew under your radar, weren’t the biggest hits, or just weren’t your cup of tea, they locked it down this year.

In no particular order.

OZEBA — Rema

As playful and disruptive as OZEBA may sound and present itself, what separates it from an ordinary noise amp is its protector-of-the-realm lyricism. Rema scales over boundaries, exerts flexibility, slips past gatekeepers, recognises himself as the leader of his era, and he’s assured that he has the smart to keep finessing and breaking the industry rules. “You wan gatekeep who sabi jump fence?” is a stopper statement.

Risk — Victony

One of this year’s Afrobeats novel releases is Victony’s Risk. He sings of superficial frivolities: showers of funds, fresh clothes, baddies with big bums — he wants them by any means. The song is simple, yet he brings substance to it. The beat is bouncy and unorthodox and vibrates deeper at every chant of “Risk, risk, risk.” Victony pushed his limits in multi-dimensional flows and unsubscribed from the usual uniform approach of Afrobeats.

Bad Vibez — Ayra Starr feat. Seyi Vibez

Ayra Starr grabs Seyi Vibez for a feature on this song about avoiding people with bad spirits and channels her energy to what pays her: money. The baseline snatches waists, and the defiant lyrics, with sprinkles of good time and protective energy, are the mantra of living life from stress.

Iseoluwa — Fireboy DML

This is the album opener of Fireboy DML’s new album, “adedamola”. Iseoluwa, meaning “the work of God” in Yoruba, sees Fireboy humble and filled with gratitude for numerous things that surpass his knowledge, albeit divine: the gift of existence, a high-flying career (six years deep in the mainstream), and an affluent lifestyle. Whether it’s at a church, mosque, club, or a pensioner’s party, this song has an audience everywhere.

Morowore — Olamide

On one hand, Olamide throws gratitude to his creator in the air. On the other, he interpolates the 2002-released Play Paul Dairo song titled Mo Wa Dupe (meaning “I came to give thanks”). This Olamide song reflects his state of mind and the believer part of him. YBNL has recorded success this year, from Asake’s global domination to Fireboy’s acclaimed new album and Olamide’s reign as a music executive.

I Go Nowhere — Dwin, the Stoic

Not many people can be simple and calm in their language and tone yet be intensely captivating with every vocal release. In this song, Dwin promises unrelenting and ever-present love to his lover. In a year with numerous hyper-fast and hard-hitting produced music, Dwin orchestrates a ballad that muses more passionately and intentionally about love when the noises are down and the head in one place.

Are You There — Ayo Maff

The woes of loneliness and walking the road of greatness or despair alone is enough reason for anyone to muster up and humbly ask, “Are you there?” Rising star Ayo Maff pours his life story and experiences from the street into a minimalist but bouncy production that holds the song from slipping into total melancholy.

Active — Asake feat. Travis Scott

Asake is active, which in urban interpretation means he’s lit, ready to go, or focused. He samples Jazzman Olofin’s Raise the Roof, featuring Fuji maestro Adewale Ayuba, whose voice is taped around Active. Asake sings of having a good time, while Travis Scott’s verse expands on that with a rap star pizzazz. It’s for the city boys and girls. Turn up!

Crown Bounce — Leather Park & Odunsi (the Engine) feat. Minz & Elias Slay66r

This is a sexy record for early morning musings into your lover’s earlobes, sweet nothings in breezy evenings and sultry confessions in the seductive darkness of the night. The artists sing about all they’d do to keep their desire burning. While they leave a reminder that they have girls around the world, there’s a focus on that one gorgeous lady.

mo de ma — Minz

Looking back at his impressive journey and recognising that this is only the beginning of what he’s set out to achieve, Minz locks in more than before. He’ll try to push out his dreams rather than rot in his comfort zone. Minz is focused on breaking down barriers and leaving marks on the game when all is said and done.
Detty December szn is upon us. While many are braving the traffic, high prices, and crowds, some of us are opting for a cozier festive season. We’re talking binge-watching great movies, ordering takeouts, and enjoying the indoors.

If you’re looking for the perfect watchlist this season, we’ve got you covered. Catch all the exciting content on M-Net Movies, available on DStv.

Whether you’re a fan of superhero flicks, gripping actions and dramas, or epics, there’ something for you to watch on M-Net Movies this month.

John Wick: Chapter 2

If you’ve seen the first John Wick, you already know that the death of his dog triggered all the chaos. In this sequel, Wick, a retired professional killer and the stuff of nightmares, is forced back into action to settle a blood debt. With a bounty on his head, the action is relentless. Catch this thriller on M-Net at 4:15 PM on December 22, 2024. Note: This movie contains violent content and is unsuitable for viewers under 16.

Empire State

In this gripping crime drama, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Liam Hemsworth star in a story about two friends planning a robbery that goes awry when a determined cop steps in. If you’re in the mood for a tense, police-versus-criminals showdown this holiday, don’t miss Empire State on M-Net at 12:40 PM on December 23, 2024. Viewer discretion is advised due to violent scenes and language.

Retribution

This intense thriller follows a successful financial trader and father whose car, with his two children inside, is rigged with a bomb. Forced to follow the assailant’s instructions, he fights for his family’s survival. Watch the tension unfold on M-Net at 2:00 PM on December 24, 2024. Suitable for viewers aged 16 and above.

Aquaman

Dive into the visually stunning world of Atlantis with Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry, AKA Aquaman. This demigod embarks on a mission to claim his place as King of Atlantis while saving the world from his ruthless brother, Orm. Experience the underwater adventure on M-Net at 12:50 PM on December 25, 2024. Recommended for viewers aged 13 and above.

Blacklight

This action-packed film follows the story of a government operative with a very particular skill set that the FBI sometimes asks for. When he discovers a dark conspiracy that threatens to destroy everything, he must use his expertise to take down the bad guys and protect the innocent. Viewers from age 16 and above can catch it at 4:45 on the evening of December 26, 2024.

Marlowe

Set in the gritty streets of 1930s Los Angeles, this neo-noir crime thriller follows private investigator Philip Marlowe as he tackles a case filled with danger, corruption, and femme fatales. Catch this smooth and atmospheric story on M-Net at 11:00 AM on December 27, 2024. For viewers aged 16 and above.

Flash

Join Barry Allen, the fastest man alive, on a thrilling journey as he faces the consequences of tampering with the past. Packed with warmth, humour, and excitement, this superhero adventure is perfect for viewers aged 13 and above. Watch it on M-Net at 1:25 PM on December 28, 2024.

Green Hornet

Skip your Sunday morning plans to enjoy this superhero classic. Watch a spoiled rich kid and his trusted friend Kato fight crime with cutting-edge gadgets. Action-packed and comic-inspired, it’s ideal for viewers aged 13 and above. Showing on M-Net at 8:40 AM on December 29, 2024.

Scorpion King

Step into an epic tale of swords, sandals, and heroism. Follow a powerful warrior’s journey to become the legendary Scorpion King as he battles an evil warlord. Catch this timeless clash between good and evil on M-Net at 8:35 AM on December 30, 2024. Recommended for viewers aged 13 and above.

Monkey Man

In this action-packed revenge thriller, a recently released prisoner returns to Mumbai to confront a corrupt system. As he battles his own demons, he transforms into the “Monkey Man” to bring justice to his enemies. Don’t miss this gripping story on M-Net at 11:25 PM on December 31, 2024, as you usher in the New Year. Viewer discretion is advised.

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2024 was the year of “una,” “type shit,” and a whole lot of other slang that made our conversations more lively, more hilarious, more trendy and more Nigerian. But, let’s be real, with new slang popping up every five minutes, it’s hard to keep track of what’s hot and what’s not.

That’s why we asked 14 Nigerians to tell us their most used slang of 2024. From the classics to the newcomers, we got some of the phrases that made it to their everyday vocabulary.

Dave

“OHHH BROTHEERRR”

I picked this slang from a Twitter mutual in 2022, and it stuck. It’s basically saying “Omo.” It works for context when you’re trying to express happiness, sadness, disappointment, or whatever.

Gafar*

“Una”

It’s a word I picked from Twitter (now X or whatever Elon calls his app), and I’ve been obsessed with it. I typically use it for sarcastic tweets and when I’m trying to look for someone’s trouble. Even my girlfriend has picked it up. I hope she doesn’t get into trouble with it. LOL.

Lolu*

It’ll have to be “Allow” and “Bring/Gbewa.”

I can’t remember when it became a thing, but it must have been during the earlier months of the year. X influencers and banger boys made both slangs popular. “Allow” is mostly used when someone is making an obvious goof or telling a lie but people want the said individual to go on regardless. Bring (Gbewa) is also used in a similar way.

They both mean or represent nothing to me. They’re just social media lingo. You can’t latch on to them for too long because they constantly evolve. They’ll get replicas in a matter of weeks or months.

Dee*

Mine is quite a poem. A five-line nursery rhyme that I learned from watching a video of a street guy in Lagos on IG. The rhymes go like this:

“2 x 1 = 2 ni, asiri wa o ni tu o

2 x 2 = 4 ni, ori wa o ni fo o

2 x 3 = 6 ni, ibi tati n rowo wa o ni cease o

2 x 4 = 8 ni, awon to nifewa ko ni hate wa

2 x 5 = 10 ni, o ni te loju aye.”

It’s a play on the arithmetic table in a ploy to get people impressed so that they’d drop money. Everything about the streets is dropping money. I see this as something people far removed from the streets would jack for themselves. As with the music and slang, Lekki jacks every original thing that comes out of Mushin and this slang is sitting duck. We need to protect it with our lives.

Eunice

“Na me get you”

I can’t remember the specific place I heard it or picked it up. I say it to my very close folks. Whether we’re talking or gisting, I’d say “Na me get you.” It basically means “You’re my person and anything you want to do, you have me, and I’ll do the same for you.” I tell my family members, my boyfriend and close friends. Most times, they’d retort with “No be you get me o. Na God get me.”

Philemon

“Omoooooo”

I use the “F word” a lot, but “Omooooo” takes the cake. It expresses whatever I’m feeling. I can use it to express joy, frustration, any emotions. Plus, this year has been a more frustrating one. So, “Omooooooo.”

Betty

“NGMI (Not Gonna Make It)”

It’s NGMI (Not Gonna Make It) for me. I picked it up on tech Twitter threads. It’s a reminder every time I see Nigeria(ns) involved in prime fooling: How can you make it when you aren’t serious about anything? “Not Gonna Make It” creates a fearful reaction.

Francis

“Type Shit”

It’s a song from Future and Metro Boomin’s We Don’t Trust You album. “Type Shit” is my default response to anything I agree with. One can interpret the slang as “Dat kai tin.”

Daniel

“Go warm Eba”

I heard the slang this year on Twitter. I just like the way it’s used to tell people off when they have unrealistic ideas.

Muna

“No wam”

I can’t place this slang to a certain time, place or person, but I began using it this year. It simply means “No problem.” Even when someone disappoints me, and I have nothing else to say or add, it’s “No wam.” It can be sarcastic too, like: “Nice one” when there’s nothing that’s in fact nice.

Chikez*

“Wamless”

You know “Wam” means problems or having issues. The “less” signifies that there’s less or no problems. “Wamless” is an upgrade of “No wam”.

Chigor

My most used slang has to be “E be things” (“That’s quite something” or “Things are happening”). I learnt it from a friend. We noticed we weren’t keeping in touch as much because adulthood was kicking our asses so we came up with a plan to schedule calls every Sunday. The calls are pretty lengthy so we talk about anything and everything. She usually sprinkles “E be things” to our gist, so I sort of picked it up from there. It feels special and I picked it up the way you subconsciously pick the mannerisms of people you love and stuff.

Kunle

“Washere”

In Yoruba, it literally means “You’ll do great things.” But in the popular context, it translates to “You’re doing well,” “Well-done,” and “Good job.”

Dipo

“Oya nau”

It simply means “Alright” or “Let’s go”, depending on the situation.

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Calling on all the chocolates, caramels and ego oyibos to paint their December dirty by pulling up to Afrovibes Festival, on the 15th of December 2024.

If there’s something Lagos knows how to do properly, it is party. It doesn’t matter if it’s to DJ YK Mule, or vibes and chill music like those by Chiké and Mannywellz. This is why we are looking forward to this show, to be headlined by the two latter artists.

If a chill concert that has you screaming the lyrics of ‘Oulala’ back to Mannywellz, or hiding your tears like the hard guy/babe that you are when Chiké sings “some people in your life…” is something your brain has been eager to do, then all roads lead to Ecobank Pan-African Center, Victoria Island, Lagos for you.

Afrovibes Festival is more than just music; it is a cultural movement. Its goal has always been to pour the world’s attention on the rich diversity of music, art and creativity that exist on the African continent through properly and intentionally curated events.

Ahead of the December 15th concert, tickets are already fast-selling. This is why you need to get yours now for a chance to spend an evening of your Detty December with Chiké and Mannywellz.

Hurry to https://tix.africa/chikelive https://tix.africa/mannywellz to cop yours and anticipate a night of guaranteed fun, magic and enjoyment.

For more information on Afrovibes Festival, please click here.
The Nigerian entertainment industry luminaries who attended Wizkid’s mother’s burial in October 2023 reinforced a reality obvious to even the most casual observers: He’s what he called himself on his 2011 debut album, “a superstar.”

After enticing the audience with the genre-bending EP S2 last December, the 34-year-old singer promised to immortalise his mother with a follow-up album, Morayo, his mother’s name, which means “I found joy.”

A year later, Wizkid delivered his sixth studio album, which has 16 tracks. P2J produced fourteen tracks, and P.Priime and DAMEDAME* produced the other two. Wasiu K1 Ayinde’s performance at Wiz’s mum’s burial kicks off the album on the track “Troubled Mind.” It vibrates with gangan and djembe.

For those who aren’t in tune with Yoruba culture, the album might come off as less of an introspection on his mother’s life and the bond that they shared and more of his usual commentary on lust and life in the fast lane. But among Yorubas, death is a time for huge celebration if the deceased was elderly. This is his current state of mind: the existential crisis of how he can make merry in the face of deferred mourning.

Late Morayo Balogun (Wizkid’s mum)

Morayo is upbeat, party-ready, less experimental and influenced by 2010 Afrobeat sounds. “Karamo” and “Kese” celebrate the rich spenders, igbeaux smokers and the gorgeous women who can twist and turn. They’re turn-up, feel-good jams, filled with the familiar hallmarks of Afrobeats music—percussion, up-tempo melodies and surface lyricism—that disagree with Wizkid’s infamous statement that he isn’t an Afrobeats artist last year.

In these songs, Wizkid leans into the escapist ethos of Afrobeats. Afrobeats as a genre is a distraction that eases the troubled mind. Whether you’ve lost a loved one or lost your job, with Afrobeats, you must retire to your lounge, set eyes on a love interest, smoke something and dance.

The album continues with “Bad Girl,” featuring Asake. In this their second collaboration, the duo shouts out Monaco and Caribbean babes. The song, sounding more like an Asake record, shows that they share a chemistry that burns beyond their shared love for cannabis.

Morayo gets laid-back and breezy in “Time,” as Wizkid continues his romantic yearning with assistance from Alté music savants Tay Iwar and AYLØ. Their collaborative effort strengthens Wizkid’s branch into the alternative music scene. He still holds tight to his obsession for his lover, the music crossbreeds R&B on “Pieces of My Heart” featuring Brent Faiyaz and dancehall on “Break Me Down.”

“Bend” calls for dancing; throw your hands in the air, feel good. “A Million Blessings” plays next and adjusts the pace. It’s not too fast to make your dance rump up dust, and it’s not too slow either. The themes and talking points of the songs hardly shift from loving up, taking the lead, flying out baddies, cloud nine trips, staying young, fresh, and living like a superstar.

France’s Tiakola makes an impressive guest appearance in “Après Minuit”—not Wiz’s first rodeo with French artists. Remember MHD’s “Bella”? Wiz’s continuous exploration into American R&B manifests in “Bad For You” with Jazmine Sullivan.

“Soji” and “Slow” featuring Anaïs Cardot further express love and bedroom rompers.

Late into the album, “Don’t Care” provides a pompous and confident Wizkid—he proudly looks back at his longevity. He’s reminded again that his spot isn’t really up for taking. He’s carefree.

He’s introspective on “Lose” and “Pray.” The closing track particularly pours a relief on the troubled mind that opens this album. He finds succour in his music, his vices and his faith. He also has the assurance that his late mum prays for him from above—nothing screams, “She remembers me,” than this.

If we take out the grief and memorial factor of the album, the end result is a close perfection of his recent projects: SoundMan Vol. 1, Made in Lagos, and More Love Less Ego. Morayo gleams with joy. There are romantic yearnings and sexual innuendos here and there. There are more sweet hooks and lyrics rooted in marijuana smoke, hustle and ballers yarns, smug brags, and experimental Afrobeats production. Though the music gets monotonous, it isn’t complicated.

He didn’t need to mention his mother or make the song titles morose, but there are hints of intense sadness and his voice baked with grief. Wizkid focuses on his job, leaves almost no chances for vulnerability for the audience—his ego and masculinity won’t let him. He tries not to trip while he continues to step in the shoes of a man who wears his heart on his sleeve. Invoking Morayo, Wizkid celebrates the dead, offers an update on the life of an Afrobeats superstar, as he searches for his next guidance after his matriarch’s demise.

NEXT READ: “I See Us as Mercenaries”—Inside the Mind of a Wizkid Fan

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If you ask any Nigerian living in Nigeria to describe 2024 for you, they’ll probably give you the same response: “Shege pro max”. But despite the shege Emilokan’s government and inflation dealt Nigerians this year, real lovers still found ways to go all out for their partners.

From spending over ₦600k on fuel to flying across borders for food and surprise birthdays, these individuals prove that our country people don’t hold back on love—even in the face of intense suffering.

Tunde*, 30

The wildest thing I did for love this year? That’ll be spending over ₦600k on fuel for my girlfriend. Before fuel prices skyrocketed, I used to handle the fuel for her car and generator. But this year, the amount tripled. I recently calculated how much I’ve spent, and it’s wild AF. Just fuel alone o! I love her, but at this rate, I might need to chill a little going into 2025.

Seyi*, 31

I pretended to enjoy the gym for my talking stage babe. She’s obsessed with the gym and bodybuilding, and I’m more of an “As long as you’re eating healthy” guy. But every other weekend this year, I’ve been joining her for long, excruciating gym sessions and pretending not to die. And she thinks I love the sessions because I’ve paid for subscriptions and even bought “sports gear” to keep the act alive. Love will make you do stupid things sha.

Joke*, 27

I moved to another state for love. My fiance got a job in Port Harcourt, and instead of doing long distance, I packed my life in Lagos and followed him. I found a remote job, moved in with him, and adjusted to a city I barely knew because I couldn’t imagine not being near him. But to be fair, I’ve always considered moving out of Lagos; this city is the absolute ghetto. And I thought, since the UK or US still seem farfetched, why not consider moving states? I’ve had absolutely zero regrets.

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Ishmael*, 29

I bought my girlfriend a puppy because she loves dogs, even though I’m terrified of them. The dog has taken over our lives—chewing everything in sight and barking at 3 a.m. And guess who takes care of it 90% of the time? Me. I’m the one buying the food, walking it, and cleaning up after it. The crazy thing is, I’m a Muslim, and we’re not supposed to associate with dogs. God, abeg.

Esther*, 31

I took a large sum from my savings to plan a surprise 50th birthday party for my husband’s mum in this Tinubu’s economy. She’s a single mum who worked hard to raise him, and I wanted to show her how much she means to us. I gathered her friends and family, picked out asoebi for her, and even got her church choir to sing. My husband cried when she walked into the party. It was a lot of stress, but totally worth it. What makes it wild is that I’ve never done something as grand for my parents. But then again, that’s because my parents have about eight of us, and sometimes it feels like we’re competing against each other to do stuff for them. My mother-in-law doesn’t enjoy all that.

Jerry*, 41

Earlier this year, during my wife’s pregnancy, she became obsessed with food from a particular vendor in Ibadan. Anytime the vendor posted a new menu, she’d forward it to me or go on and on about how it was the only thing she wanted to eat. I tried ordering from vendors in Lagos who sold similar meals, but she wasn’t satisfied.

One random weekend, I drove to Ibadan to get enough food to last a month. The funny part? When I got back, she said, “Ehn, I’m not feeling it again.” I was so mad, but I packed everything into the freezer. After ignoring it for a week, she finally started eating it—and it became the only thing she wanted till the end of her pregnancy. I made four more trips to Ibadan before she went to bed. Anytime I remind her of what she put me through, she laughs and says, “Don’t worry, next pregnancy, we’ll send you further.”

Ayomipo*, 28

I paid off my ex-boyfriend’s ₦700k debt. We broke up on mutual grounds but stayed friends with benefits. And no, the benefits aren’t just sexual—we’ve come through for each other in other ways, too.

He’d taken a loan to fund a business that didn’t work out, and even though he tried to act like it wasn’t a big deal, I could tell it was breaking him. Anytime I asked for updates, he’d shy away from the topic. I couldn’t bear to see him like that, so I cleared the debt without telling him. Two weeks later, he found out when the loan sharks stopped calling.

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After over 13 years since Wizkid’s Superstar debut, Starboy has given us countless hits, collaborations and moments that won’t fade away in a long time. To stretch his music catalogue, he’s announced Morayo, his sixth studio album slated to be released on November 22, 2024.

While we wait for Morayo, we dive into Wizkid’s acclaimed music projects, ranking his works from the best to the least enjoyable. From Superstar to S2, we revisited the albums and EPs that have cemented Wiz’s status as one of Afrobeats’ legends.

6.

More Love, Less Ego (2022)

In November 2022, just a year after the debut of the deluxe Made in Lagos, Wiz released More Love, Less Ego —a mesh of pop, Afrobeats and R&B. This album feels like a drawn-out session of Made in Lagos, repeating similar sonic templates, flows and melodies. Quit honestly it is the last in this ranking because of was not daring, was boring. It didn’t try to go outside the comfort zone of previous successful albums from Wizkid.

5.

S2 (2023)

Although this dropped around the demise of his mum, Wizkid understood that variety is the spice of life on S2, a follow-up to his Starboy label’s Soundman Volume 1 project. In four tracks, Wizkid served diverse music styles that switched up his tempo from the laid-back Made in Lagos and More Love, Less Ego. S2 is very experimental and fun. As we said in our review of the project, it’s a prelude to Morayo.

4.

Ayo (2014)

This is Wizkid’s second album and can be called his album with the most hits, being home to Jaiye Jaiye, In My Bed, Show You the Money, On Top Your Matter. Though few songs in Ayo are as introspective as “Ojuelegba” and “Joy,” its general fast-tempo direction attracts party animals and young people looking for fun. We may never get this party version of Wizkid again, but the hits from Ayo will continue to turn up functions even decades from now.

3.

Sound from the Other Side (2017)

There have been arguments that this album didn’t strive or gain notoriety due to its mixtape tag, R&B sonic direction, and serious lyricism (a deviation from the usually playful Afrobeats lyrics). But these qualities are what distinguish Wizkid’s third album and first major label debut among his other offerings. “SFTOS” is soft, expressive, and bold.

2.

Made in Lagos (2020)

The fusion of R&B and Afropop shines bright on “Made In Lagos”, Wizkid’s special nod to his city of childhood.

Years before Wizkid released the critically acclaimed “Made In Lagos” album in 2020, his fans begged and asked him several times for a new album. Just nine days after its release, it crossed over 100 million streams across five streaming platforms, received praise from listeners and both local and foreign media, and became the best-selling African album of all time in the US.

1.

Superstar (2011)

Superstar is Wizkid’s first album, released under Empire Mates Entertainment (EME) in 2011. A year after his hit single Holla At Your Boy, his debut album came out to ground his feet as Nigeria’s contemporary music new pop star. Not only because he was the hottest kid on the block, had a sort of cool demeanour, or the star-studded features, he was at his most adventurous phase. The album explores different genres like Hip-Hop, R&B, Reggae and Fuji, and themes like romance, love, ghetto upbringing and his grass-to-grace story. A decade has passed since the release, but at least six songs on it still raise the roof anytime they’re played.

QUIZ: Only Wizkid’s OG Fans Will Ace this “Superstar” Album Quiz
A South African group has filed a petition with the organisers of the Miss Universe pageant demanding that Chidimma Adetshina, who is representing Nigeria in the competition, be disqualified.

On October 30, 2024, Progressive Forces of South Africa, in their petition, claimed that Chidimma and her mother were under investigation by the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa for identity theft. It further stated that the Nigerian government granting Chidimma diplomatic privileges is “non-compliant and arrogant.” So far, 954 signatures out of a thousand targets for the petition have been gathered.

Chidimma’s current standing in SA

This comes only days after the government rescinded Chidimma and her mother’s South African citizenship. On October 29, 2024, the Department of Home Affairs released a statement stating that Chidimma and her mom would be stripped of their citizenship and travel documents if they failed to provide evidence of being South African citizens by a specific deadline.

Chidimma is currently in Mexico for the Miss Universe pageant after she won the Miss Nigeria pageant where she represented Taraba this year. The grand finale is November 16, 2024.

How it all started

After she entered into the Miss South Africa competition, a video resurfaced of Chidimma at her wedding. Even though she is now divorced, only women who have never been married can compete in Miss South Africa.

Then the conversation switched to her nationality. Despite being a nationalised South African, critics refused to accept her as South African because she has a Nigerian dad and a Mozambique mom.

Despite being approved by the governing body of Miss South Africa who cleared her to remain in the competition, critics continued to demand her disqualification online. The noise finally got their government’s attention and kick-started an investigation into accusations that her mom was naturalised with forged documents. Chidimma eventually opted out of the Miss South Africa pageant due to the backlash and harsh criticisms directed at her, and her parents.

Amidst the rocky situation, the organisers of Miss Nigeria reached out to her, extending an invitation to participate in the Nigerian pageantry. She ended up winning the beauty contest, qualifying her to participate and represent Nigeria at Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico. What a twist of fate!

The backlash isn’t stopping Chidimma Adetshina. Her journey from being a Miss South Africa pageant drop-out to becoming Miss Universe Nigeria, and now competing at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in less than three months is breathtaking. She may even emerge the winner, who knows?

Her Instagram page continues to buzz with happenings and updates on how’s going at the Miss Universe Pageant in Mexico.
Following the “COMMUNE” theme of Lagos Fashion Week 2024, Nigerian and African fashion world got together in attendance and reverence of the 13th edition of the annual multi-day fashion event last week. From October 23 to October 27, 2024, collections from several designers and fashion houses such as Pettre Taylor, Ugo Monye, AJANÉÉ, Eki, Dust of Earth, Imad Eduso, Oshobor and more served looks left and right.

The Lagos Fashion Week continues to be a space for African fashion designers, models and creatives to showcase their works and creativity. These are the major things you missed at this year’s Lagos Fashion Week’s runway.

Chief Alex walked!

A month after photographer Chief Alex called out GTCO for excluding plus-sized models in their runways, she modelled and walked the runway for Oshobor’s SS25 collection on the fourth day of the Lagos Fashion Week.

The Oshobor collection celebrates the Edo-Benin culture, fashion and heritage.

Images culled from @fatshionistaa on X.

The shoelace clothes

Dust of Earth is a Nigerian slow fashion brand founded by Omolabake Temetan. In pursuit of sustainable fashion, its experiments range from socks collections and the reuse of second-hand clothing to shoelaces into wearable pieces that were also exhibited at the Lagos Fashion Week 2024.

The designer who makes clothes with shoelaces is up! I repeat Dust of the Earth is up. https://t.co/XpRKXc6koJ pic.twitter.com/80dNkrrzlL
— Shiera The Priestess (@chinvzvm) October 24, 2024

Davido closes the Ugo Monye show

Davido remains one of the most consistent celebrity appearances at the Lagos Fashion Week. He was on the runway for Ugo Monye on the day two of the Lagos Fashion Week 2024, looking regal in a large brown traditional wear. This marks his second time on the runway since his 2022 debut for Puma at New York Fashion Week.

Images culled from @Davido on X.

Nollywood actors, BBN stars and “influencers”

Davido isn’t the only popular entertainer that graced the runway of the LFW 2024. Nollywood actor Mike Folarin, Afropop singer Minz walked for Heineken 45’CL and Orange Culture. DJ TGarbs and Big Brother Naija star Dorathy walked in Hertunba’s “THE WOMEN BEFORE US”. Fashion producer and stylist Eniafe Momodu walked in the Fruché SS25 collection. Former BBN housemate Sheggz walked for Emmy Kasbit, and singer Lojay for Elfreda Dali.

Images culled from @lagosfashionweekofficial on IG.

Kids were live too

Ejiro Amos Tafiri didn’t forget about the kids in its “Symphony of Convergence” collection. They were adorned in gorgeous traditional and contemporary designs.

Images culled from @lagosfashionweekofficial on IG.

Lush Hair

The Day 4 of the runway got interesting. Among the several fashion houses that showcased, there was a standout brand — Lush Hair. The hair brand launched and displayed its new glamourous hair products at the LFW 2024. BBN housemate and media personality Natasha ‘Tacha’ Akide closed out the Lush Hair show at the runway.

Images culled from lagosfashionweek.ng and Pinterest.

Hey, We Found These Latest Casual Nigerian Male Fashion Trends Are for All Men