At one time, they were the faces on our screens and the names trending across Nigerian pop culture. Then, they packed up and japa’d, chasing new lives in faraway countries.
From movie stars who have given up acting to wear medical scrubs to musicians who have dropped the mic and traded Nigeria for abroad, these Nigerian celebrities have reinvented themselves and charted new courses.
Here are 10 Nigerian celebrities who japa’d and what they do now abroad.
1. 2Shotz
Real name: William Orioha
Famous for: Raps
Relocated to: U.S.A
New occupation: Photographer and Filmmaker
2Shotz was one of the OG rappers from South-Eastern Nigeria, known for hits like “Oyoyo,” “Make Them Talk” featuring 9ice, and “I Am William” with M.I. Abaga. But at the height of his fame, personal struggles, including an assault allegation from his ex-wife and a battle with depression, pushed him to step back and rediscover himself.
In 2016, he traded the mic for the camera, diving into photography and filmmaking. Now based in the US, 2Shotz has found a new sense of purpose behind the lens.
2. Boy Alinco
Real name: Bayo Bankole
Famous for: Papa Ajasco
Relocated to: U.S.A
New occupation: Events and Artist Promoter
Bayo “Boy Alinco” Bankole became a household name for his unforgettable role as the flashy, eccentric playboy in Papa Ajasco & Company, the hit sitcom created by Wale Adenuga. His swaggering walk, tight trousers, and oversized glasses made Boy Alinco one of the most iconic comedy characters of the 2000s.
In 2015, he relocated to the United States in search of better opportunities. But the move wasn’t all smooth sailing — in an interview with Teju Babyface, he opened up about the early struggles of his new life abroad, including a difficult first marriage and the challenges of starting over from scratch.
These days, Boy Alinco has rebuilt his life. He runs a transportation business, works in artist and event promotion, and occasionally takes on MC gigs.
3. Frank Donga
Real name: Kunle Idowu
Famous for: Comedy
Relocated to: Canada
New occupation: Multimedia Comms Specialist and Agriculture Expert
Frank Donga is a Nigerian actor and comedian best known for his deadpan humour in Ndani TV’s The Interview, where he played an awkward job seeker — a role that earned him a nomination for Best Actor in a Comedy at the 2015 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
In 2024, he relocated to Saskatchewan, Canada, where he now works as a Multimedia Communications Specialist with the Ministry of Agriculture. It’s a fitting full-circle moment for the comedian, blending his creative skills with his academic background in agriculture.
4. Funsho Adeolu
Relocated to: U.S.A
Famous for: Acting
New occupation: Events MC and brand influencer
Funsho Adeolu (Ondo State–born) is a veteran Nollywood actor, writer, producer, and founder of Fynest Media. Over the years, he’s starred in some of Nollywood’s most memorable Yoruba films, including Ile Alariwo and Idoti Oju.
After decades of entertaining Nigerians on screen, Funsho quietly relocated to the United States with his family, where he’s reinvented himself within the entertainment space. These days, he’s best known as “The Dancing MC” — a nickname he earned from the viral videos of him joyfully dancing at events.
General Pype was one of the standout voices infusing Reggae into Nigerian music in the late 2000s. In 2018, Pype paused his music career, choosing to step away from the spotlight to focus on family and explore life beyond the studio.
He moved to the U.S to start afresh, studying set design at the Georgia Film Academy. He has since remained dedicated to this new pivot and contributed his design skills to major productions like Black Panther (2018) and Samaritan (2022).
6. Helen Paul
Relocated to: U.S.A
Famous for: Comedy
New occupation: Professor and Head of Department
Helen Paul shot to fame in the late 2000s as Tatafo, the mischievous child-voiced character whose high-pitched tone and clever jokes made her a household name across Nigeria’s comedy scene. Her infectious energy and witty skits earned her spots on radio, TV, and film, cementing her as one of Nigeria’s most versatile entertainers.
In 2019, after earning a PhD in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos, she relocated to the United States with her family. The move marked a new chapter for Paul — one that saw her evolve from comedian to academic. She now serves as the Head of the Department of Arts, Music, and Entertainment at Heart Bible International University, where she’s affectionately called Dr Tatafo.
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7. Terror D’Archangel
Real name: McMorris Ndubueze
Famous for: Acting
Relocated to: U.S.A
New occupation: Medical Doctor
McMorris “Maurice” Ndubueze was one of Nollywood’s go-to “bad boys” in the early 2000s. He made his mark with memorable roles in films like Final Hour and Married Women on Campus, where his tough-guy persona became a fan favourite.
But these days, Maurice has traded film sets for hospital halls. He relocated to the United States and is now a medical doctor, marking one of Nollywood’s most inspiring career pivots.
8. Okunnu
Real name: Wale Akorede
Famous for: Acting
Relocated to: Canada
New job: Content Creator
If you’re familiar with the OG Yoruba comic actors, then you definitely know Okunnu — the hilarious, over-the-top funnyman who brought chaotic energy and slapstick brilliance to countless Yoruba films.
Two years after publicly lamenting the state of things in Nigeria back in 2023, it seems the country finally pushed him to make a move. Okunnu has now relocated to Canada, where he’s living a quieter life but still finding ways to make people laugh. These days, he creates lighthearted, dress-up comedy skits with his kids — a wholesome extension of the comic energy we all loved him for.
9. Pepenazi
Real name: Opeyemi Gbenga Kayode
Famous for: Singing
Relocated to: U.K
New occupation: Gospel Minister
Between 2018 and 2019, Pepenazi had hit songs like “One For the Road” and “Illegal”, blasting out of club speakers.
In 2022, after a brief disappearance from social media and music space, he returned as a preacher and immigrant in the U.K.
10. Regina Askia-Williams
Relocated to: U.S.A
Famous for: Acting
New occupation: Health Care Practitioner
Regina Askia-Williams is a former Nollywood actress who relocated to the United States from Nigeria in the early 2000s. Having transitioned out of the film industry, she has built a successful second career in healthcare, becoming a family nurse and health practitioner based in New York.
Askia-Williams has also established her own medical practice in the U.S., where she provides medical services and is involved in community outreach efforts.
As much as weddings are about the couple, it can also be about the outfits. And as seen lately, nobody “understands this assignment” quite like Nigerian celebrities. From show-stopping aso-ebi to custom corsets snatched tighter than the economy, these celeb outfit styles for weddings turn every ceremony into a full-blown fashion showdown disguised as a celebration of love.
If you’ve ever found yourself deep in an Instagram spiral, zooming in on a sleeve or screenshotting a dress to send to your tailor or mentally saving a gele style for future reference, you’re not alone. We’ve all seen one look that made us whisper, “Can my tailor make a dress like this?”
That’s why I’ve gathered 40 of the best celebrity wedding guest outfits and styles you can recreate. Get your new inspo here.
Female Nigerian Celebrity Traditional Wedding Guest Dress Styles
If there’s one thing Nigerian female celebrities do with flair, it’s turning traditional wedding guest outfits into runway moments. Whether it’s the rich textures of aso oke, dazzling lace, or bold brocade brought to life with flawless tailoring, these queens know how to blend culture and couture effortlessly.
10. Shaffy Bello
This is a simple but creative owambe dress made out of lace material, adorned with beads and a flowing skirt. It doesn’t matter the age of whoever wears this style, it brings out the youthfulness in them.
9. Jemima Osunde
This is a sleeveless design over a shiny skirt, matched with a bold gele style that you can try when you want to slay and the sun isn’t out. Though the design looks simple, the aura is elegant.
8. Sharon Ooja-Nwoke
This is aso-oke with an uncomplicated owambe design. This strapless top with an inflated waist and a long skirt is for the woman who chooses comfort over anything.
7. Stephanie Coker
If you want a style that shows off your curves, gives you full sleeves and combines a modern twist of iro (wrapper) and buba fashion, this is for you. The corset may be tight, but your body will look snatched.
6. Ini Edo
Iro (wrapper) and buba come in different styles these days, including this. There’s something distinctive about an Owambe that bridges the old and modern designs. It’s one of the few classy African George fabric Owambe styles that gives structure and commands the room.
5. Ini Dima-Okojie
Regal style and contemporary flair meet in this rich mustard-gold traditional dress. It’s silky and structured, giving drama with every fold and ripple. The outer layer is a voluminous agbada-inspired robe, tailored with precise draping and a slit that teases a fringe mini-dress underneath. This is for the woman who loves to mix tradition with hot girl energy.
4. Osas Ighodaro
The bodice is a sculpted corset with a dramatic, leaf-like bust design that gives art gallery and red carpet at the same time. It hugs her waist and hips, then flows into a fitted mermaid-style skirt with a lace train. You can spin this traditional wear into a timeless fashion royalty moment.
3. Chioma Goodhair
The off-shoulder gown has a deep neckline that serves the face, chest, and elegance. The bodice is expertly embellished with floral appliqués and sequin embroidery, giving it a luxury feel. If you like your gown fitting like a second skin, cinching your waist and flowing smoothly into a sleek, fitted skirt, this is for you. It’s proper rich aunty fashion.
2. Diana Russet
It has a halter neckline with intricate beading along the bust and collar. It features an almost sculptural hip volume, giving it a corseted, peplum-like silhouette that flares out before cinching in. If you like your fashion with a little bit of drama to it, this is what you’re looking for.
1. Veekee James
This is Veekee James. Of course, her style is dramatic. It’s a corseted look featuring sheer panels embellished with bronze beading and embroidery. The dress’s skirt is form-fitting through the hips and thighs, then puffs out dramatically at the bottom into a sculptural, bow-like shape. If your overall aesthetic is opulent and theatrical, you’ll eat this and leave no crumbs.
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Male Nigerian Celebrity Traditional Wedding Guest Outfit Styles
From regal agbadas with intricate embroidery to sleek senator wears, isi agu tunics, and rich aso oke combinations, these men are familiar with what it means to dress to impress.
10. Do2DTun
This look is a modern take on specifically the buba (top), sokoto (trousers) and fila (cap) ensemble. It’s a two-piece outfit: the buba is loose-fitting with a wide kimono-style sleeve. The sokoto is wide-legged and flowing, matching the top. It’s a simple style that gives focus to the outfit and a confident look to the wearer.
9. Timini Egbuson
This is an Alhaji style. A flowing agbada with wide sleeves and intricate embroidery on the chest to add an elegant touch. The look is accessorised by a hausa cap, some jewelry and a large purse to compliment his azaman look.
8. Akah Nnani
If you’re going to go full traditional swagger, you come correct. This style is free-flowing off-white danshiki with subtle stripes, matching trousers underneath and fila on top. Looking for culturally-rich fashion that gives a refined look? Here it is.
7. Davido
This ceremonial and traditional attire, given the headwear style and beads. The style is a crisp white two-piece, which includes a top with wide sleeves and matching wide-legged trousers that stop above the ankles. Davido makes the swag complete with his jewelry. Are you going for something royal and commanding? Try this style.
6. Uti Nwachukwu
This unique design has vertical rows. The overall is Agbada-style, with wide sleeves, a long-sleeved top, and matching trousers. Whether the occasion is celebratory or formal, this dress is suitable. Traditional, bold, and fashionable are the words to describe it.
5. Ebuka Obi-Uchendu
This is a two-piece short-sleeved suit with an unequal hemline, longer on one side. The clothing has multiple lion figures, a design which can be tied to the Igbo traditional clothing material. The fashion gets cultural here without losing modern interpretation. As a fashion-aware person looking to make a statement always, this is how to stand out.
4. Enioluwa Adeoluwa
This is a loose-fitting tunic with detailed embroidery on the chest and shoulders. The embroidery features geometric patterns and motifs that are characteristic of traditional designs. The marching trousers are wide and comfortable, fitting the tunic. The look is complemented by a cap and a walking stick. What defines a culturally-rich fashion better than this?
3. Pretty Mike
The inner garment, which appears to be sheer, makes this multi-layered agbada hotter and more creative. The gold embroidery and patterns on the chest and lower parts of the agbada add a luxurious touch. The look is complete with a matching abitiaja cap. It’s giving man of valour fashion.
2. Chike
Senator style goes extreme. It has an outer hooded short-sleeved top draped over a longer, straight-cut tunic that reaches below the knee. The trousers match the colour and have a relaxed fit. The panama cap is in a class of its own. This is how to stand out.
1. Enioluwa Adeoluwa
This is a modern take on the Agbada style. The outer garment looks like a tunic or a shorter agbada and it’s woven with intricate patterns. Its neckline has a shirt design, demonstrating a sophisticated blend of traditional fashion with contemporary elements. Again, the old and new blend is the style that keeps giving.
Female Nigerian Celebrity White Wedding Guest Dress Styles
From structured jumpsuits to dreamy lace gowns, crisp satin dresses, and dramatic sleeves that steal the spotlight, Nigerian ladies know how to dress without breaking the wedding guest code. This is for the baddies with taste, ready to break the rules and still look like a dream.
10. Nancy Isime
This is an off-shoulder dress with a flowing back and a front that’s a short skirt, though it looks slit. It features a tight corset and a chest design that hugs the bust area. If the fashion statement you want is “Monalisa is a baddie,” this is pretty much how to write.
9. Funke Akindele
This dress has a tailored blazer with minimalist design, paired with matching wide-legged trousers. Over the blazer is a pleated skirt in similar colour as the rest of the attire. The bowtie-like headgear and clutch bag give a luxe look. Suitable for high-fashion events, formal gatherings or stylish social occasions like a wedding.
8. Ini Dima-Okojie
The gown has a unique design element at the bust, with swirling, sculptural details. The dress has sheer, long sleeves made of a delicate, translucent fabric that adds an ethereal quality to the look. There’s a subtle cut-out just below the bust that doesn’t compromise the style. The thin, cute chain around the waist adds a touch of sparkle and accentuates the figure.
7. Osas Ighodaro
This high-fashion gown has a dramatic, asymmetrical design featuring a plunging neckline. It drapes over one shoulder and cascades down the back, looking like a large, sculptural ruffle. The long sleeve on one arm is sleek and fitted, while the gown’s train flows. If you’re looking for something artistic with commanding presence, it’s this one.
This dress features a form-fitting one-shoulder design, beautifully showcasing her shoulders and collarbone. It is made of a shimmery, textured fabric that catches the light. The gown has a cut-out detail at the waist while the long, floor-length skirt flows. You can be bougie and relaxed in this style.
5. Tomike Adeoye
The gown has a fitted, one-shoulder bodice with pleated fabric, while the off-the-shoulder design on the other side accentuates the neckline and collarbone. The skirt is a smooth, satin-like fabric flowing down to the floor. It’s subtly gathered at the waist to give a gentle ruching that brings out the figure. Aside from stealing attention at weddings with this, it’s a gorgeous evening dress too.
4. Liquorose
Velvet gowns always look bougie and classy. This gown has an off-shoulder neckline, long sleeves, and a detailed lace bodice that runs down the centre. The skirt hugs the waist all the way down to the floor. Poise and sleepiness? It ticks the boxes.
3. Juliet Ibrahim
This strapless, flowing satin gown has a fitted bodice and subtle drapes at the hip, adding an elegant touch to the overall look. An easy-on-the-eyes style like this is best accessorised with a matching glittery clutch in hand, a bracelet and a simple necklace. It can’t be more perfect!
2. Mercy Aigbe-Adeoti
You don’t have to be the bride before you show up at a wedding in a white dress. Look at this: a flowing gown with a cape at the back and a bodice designed with a puffed sleeve made of satin. It’s such a warm look accented by pearl and gold accessories. This dress is a hit.
1. Lilian Afegbai
This is a stunning, form-fitting off-shoulder gown made of shiny satin. The sleeves are long and decorated with vibrant red roses, adding a touch of romance to the look. While the dress is fantastic, we have this elegant look due to the additional sparkling accessories from the ears to the neck and fingers. This is a style for those aiming for a high-fashion appearance. Simple and sweet.
Male Nigerian Celebrity White Wedding Guest Outfit Styles
Whether it’s a wedding reception in Eko Hotel or a destination wedding in Tanzania, these stylish kings understand that rolling out their suits is a bold statement move.
10. Moses Bliss
This is a stylish tuxedo with patterns and embellishments featuring a mix of shiny stones and matte textures. It’s complemented by a white shirt, black bowtie and black shoes. Black suits will always rock. If you’re going for a design that isn’t boring, this will do.
9. Sheggz Olusemo
This is a black tuxedo with a satin shawl lapel paired with a white shirt, black bowtie, and black high-platform shoes. It’s simple and elegant.
8. Daniel Etim-Effiong
A light-coloured, textured blazer with a matching vest and a crisp, light-coloured shirt underneath. The trouser adds a twist to the look with a shade of cream. It’s a simple style but classy and reliable.
7. Enyinna Nwigwe
This is a simple double-breasted blazer and matching trousers tailored to his physique. It has a classic touch that perfectly complements any fashionable event.
6. Neo Akpofure
This is a sharp, pinstripe suit with a tailored blazer and matching wide-mouth trousers. It features a white shirt underneath and a black tie that complements the suit. A white pocket square is neatly tucked into his blazer’s breast pocket, adding a touch of elegance. The black shoes complete the polished look and are suitable for formal or casual events.
5. Timini Egbuson
Black tuxedos never go wrong. This glittery blazer is paired with a white shirt, a black bowtie, and a decorative brooch on the left lapel. Any man looking for a modern style that’s fancy for a wedding or a wine party, here you go.
4. Femi Dapson
This is a classic black suit with white shirt, matching wide-legged trousers and black tie that gives a formal and sophisticated appearance. The touch of stylish black sunglasses also adds coolness to it. Even when you don’t open your mouth, your fashion is speaking.
3. Stan Nze
This is a straight-up formal blazer with lapels and matching trousers with subtle stripe detail on the side. The shirt and bowtie give it a complementary boss look. This is a host fit as much as a wedding guest dress. It’s a bold style.
2. Akah Nnani
Light colours are a great material for suits if you know how to pull them off. This suit consists of a blazer and marching trousers and a simple white shirt underneath. The rest of the look is enhanced by a necklace, a few buttons undone and a low-bottom shoe with lace.
1. Efa Iwara
A white pinstripe blazer with a black shirt underneath, black wide-leg trousers and black shoes is a stylish wedding look. Pull up like this, and everyone will think you’re a sort of character from a Martin Scorsese movie. Too hard!
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.”
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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.
If you ever wished you had different parents, this is your chance. Get to the end of this quiz and we’ll match you to your Nollywood Parents.
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.
