• A few years ago, TikTok was primarily used for dancing, trends, and lip-syncing. Now, it’s one of the biggest money-making platforms in the world. Creators are cashing out from brand deals, affiliate sales, and even gifts from live streams, and you don’t need millions of followers to join them.

    If you’ve ever wondered how people make money on TikTok, this 2025 guide breaks it down with tips you can start using today.

    5 Legit Ways to Make Money on TikTok in Nigeria

    TikTok pays creators in multiple ways: through live gifts, affiliate links, brand partnerships, and more. The best part? You don’t need millions of followers to earn. What really matters is engagement — how many people genuinely interact with your content. A micro-creator with 10,000 loyal followers who trust their product reviews can earn more than a big creator with 200,000 ghost followers.

    TikTok’s algorithm also gives new creators a fair shot at visibility, so even if you’re just starting, one well-crafted post can reach thousands of people. With the right niche, consistency, and a smart strategy, you can absolutely make money on TikTok in 2025.

    Whether you’re a content creator, business owner, or just someone looking for a side hustle, here are five proven ways to make money on TikTok in 2025.

    1. Use TikTok to Promote and Grow Your Business

    TikTok can be your biggest free marketing tool. Whether you’re selling thrift fashion, food, skincare products, or digital services, TikTok gives you a stage to showcase your work and reach new customers without paying for ads.

    It’s one of the fastest ways to build visibility. Think of it as your digital shopfront: every video is a chance to pull someone new into your business.

    “TikTok is the new storefront,” says digital marketer and creator, Ifeanyi*. “I get 80% of my clients from the platform.”

    When Ifeanyi* first joined TikTok in 2022, he posted short videos explaining simple marketing hacks and ad strategies for small businesses. Within a few years, his follower count grew from 300 to 15,000, and those views began to translate into paying consultations. “People would comment, ‘Can you help me set this up?’ or click the link in my bio to book sessions,” he says.

    For Mia, a handmade jewellery seller, TikTok became her biggest sales channel. She started by posting behind-the-scenes videos of her crafting and packaging processes. One video showing how she customises wired necklaces hit 15,000 views, and she sold out her stock that week. “Before TikTok, I only sold through WhatsApp,” she says. “Now, most of my customers come straight from the app.”

    “If you know how to teach or share value, TikTok will find your audience,” adds freelance designer Zainab. “I post design tutorials and freelancing tips, and I’ve landed client projects through my work on TikTok.”

    The strategy is simple: Let people see the value. Show what you do and how you do it. TikTok rewards transparency and personality. People love to see authenticity, and that’s what drives real engagement and sales on TikTok.  Your content can double as your marketing funnel. Every post is an opportunity to turn views into clients.

    »More: 55 Ways To Make Money Online, Offline and from Home as a Nigerian

    2. Partner with Brands and Create Sponsored Content

    One of the most common ways people make money on TikTok is through brand partnerships. Companies pay creators to promote their products or services.

    If your TikTok content consistently focuses on one niche, say fashion, food, tech, or lifestyle. Brands that serve that audience may want to collaborate with you. For example, a skincare creator might partner with a beauty brand, or a finance creator might get sponsored by a digital bank.

    Partnerships can come in different forms. Sometimes, a brand sends you free products to review or feature in a video. Other times, they pay for a dedicated post or a short series of videos. The bigger and more engaged your audience, the higher your potential earnings will be.

    You don’t always have to wait for brands to find you. Many Nigerian creators start by reaching out to brands they already use, pitching collaboration ideas, or creating unpaid content that naturally attracts attention from brands.

    For instance, Kamsi*, a Nigerian lifestyle creator, earns most of her income through sponsorships. Travel and leisure brands began reaching out for collaborations once she reached 15,000 followers and started posting travel content consistently.

    Remember: TikTok requires you to turn on the “Branded Content” disclosure setting if you’re creating sponsored content. This setting is crucial for transparency and helps you establish trust with your audience, which, in the long run, fosters a steady stream of revenue.

    3. Go Live and Earn Through Gifts

    If you love connecting with your audience in real time, TikTok Live can be an easy way to earn money. No brand deals or big following are required.

    Here’s how it works: viewers send virtual gifts during your livestreams or even in the comments of your short videos. These gifts appear as fun stickers or animations, but behind the scenes, they translate to something called Diamonds. Each Diamond has a real-world cash value that you can redeem once you’ve accumulated enough.

    According to TikTok, “Once you collect Diamonds, you may obtain a reward payment from us, such as money or virtual items.”

    Think of it as a virtual tip jar: people send gifts when they enjoy your content or simply want to support your creativity.

    To start receiving gifts, you must be at least 18 years old and have a TikTok account in good standing. While there’s no strict follower threshold, TikTok usually requires you to have at least 1,000 followers to go live.

    Creators in Nigeria have increasingly used this feature to earn extra income, especially those who create lifestyle chats, beauty tutorials, or gaming content. 

    In recent years, many creators have discovered just how rewarding live streams can be. For example, when Nigerian social media personality Peller told Ebuka that he once made $10,000 from a single livestream, it highlighted the real earning potential that comes with a loyal, engaged audience. While not everyone will hit that kind of number, it shows what’s possible with consistent engagement.

    For instance, some Nigerian streamers host live Q&A sessions, cooking demonstrations, or storytelling nights. They engage their audience, keep the energy high, and sometimes walk away with enough gifts to cash out a few thousand naira after a good session.

    The more engaging your live content, the more likely people are to send gifts. And if you’re not ready to go live yet, TikTok now allows viewers to send video gifts on regular posts: a feature that’s opened up another small but growing income stream for creators.

    It may not make you rich overnight, but if you build a loyal audience, those virtual gifts can quickly add up.

    4. Become an Affiliate Marketer

    Affiliate marketing is one of the easiest ways to earn money on TikTok, and it doesn’t require brand deals or a massive following.

    You promote other people’s products and earn a commission whenever someone buys through your unique link or referral code.

    Here’s how it works:

    1. You join an affiliate programme, such as Jumia, Konga, Selar, or international ones like Amazon Associates or ClickBank.
    2. You get a unique tracking link or discount code.
    3. You create TikTok videos that demonstrate how the product works or explain its usefulness.
    4. When someone makes a purchase using your link, you earn a percentage of the sale.

    Commissions vary depending on the brand, typically ranging from 5% to 25% per sale.

    Unlike brand sponsorships, where a company pays you upfront to promote a product, affiliate marketing rewards you based on the results you achieve. So even smaller creators with under 10,000 followers can still make money if their content converts viewers.

    You can’t currently post clickable links directly in TikTok captions. Still, you can add affiliate links in your bio once you switch to a business account (which usually requires at least 1,000 followers) or use link-in-bio tools like Beacons, Linktree, or Koji.

    Many Nigerian creators already do this: tech reviewers, skincare influencers, and lifestyle creators share honest product recommendations and drop affiliate links in their bios or pinned comments.

    If you don’t want to wait for brands to find you, pitch yourself. Reach out directly to local businesses or join affiliate networks that allow Nigerian creators. The key is to choose products your audience actually needs or trusts; that way, your content feels helpful, not pushy.

    With consistency, good storytelling, and the right partnerships, affiliate marketing can quietly become one of the most profitable ways to earn from TikTok in Nigeria.

    »More: These 10 Money Market Mutual Funds Are Making Nigerians Rich in 2025

    5. Drive Traffic to Other Platforms 

    TikTok doesn’t always have to be the final destination; it can be your traffic engine. Many Nigerian creators use TikTok as the top of their funnel, driving followers to other platforms where they can monetise more directly.

    If you have a YouTube channel, Instagram page, or WhatsApp business, TikTok can help you grow it faster than any other app. Short, engaging videos can attract a new audience, while your bio or pinned comment directs them to where the real conversions occur: your online store, newsletter, course, or booking link.

    For example, a Nigerian food creator might share 30-second recipe clips on TikTok and tell followers to “watch the full recipe on YouTube.” A fitness coach can post short workout tips and drop their WhatsApp link for paid one-on-one training. A skincare influencer might do before-and-after videos and guide followers to Instagram for product details.

    This cross-platform strategy works exceptionally well in Nigeria because it doesn’t rely on TikTok’s limited monetisation tools. Instead, you’re using TikTok’s massive reach to build visibility and trust, then converting that attention into real sales or income elsewhere.

    To make this work:

    • Add your other platforms to your TikTok bio.
    • Include clear CTAs (calls to action) in your videos,  e.g., “check my YouTube for the full video,” or “DM me on WhatsApp to order.”
    • Keep your branding consistent across all your pages so followers can easily recognise you.

    In short, think of TikTok as the spark and your other platforms as the fire. Use it to attract people, then nurture and monetise them where you have full control.

    »More: I’m 22, and This Is How I Grew My Money by 29% in 2024

    TikTok Monetising Features Not Available in Nigeria

    Sadly, many of TikTok’s built-in monetisation features aren’t available to creators in Nigeria. Here are some of the biggest ones missing:

    1. Creator Rewards Program (formerly Creator Fund)

    TikTok’s Creator Rewards Program pays users based on the performance, engagement, and originality of their videos. In eligible countries like the US and UK, creators earn between $0.40 and $1.00 per 1,000 views, meaning a viral video with 1 million views could bring in $400 to $1,000 directly from TikTok. Unfortunately, Nigeria isn’t yet part of this program, so local creators with similar reach earn zero from the same engagement.

    2. Creator Marketplace

    This is TikTok’s official platform that connects brands with creators for paid collaborations. Creators can showcase their audience insights, demographics, and performance metrics, making it easier for brands to find influencers that fit their campaigns. Without access to this feature, Nigerian creators often have to pitch brands manually or rely on third-party influencer agencies, missing out on streamlined opportunities for global partnerships.

    3. TikTok Shop

    TikTok Shop allows creators to sell products directly through their videos and live streams. Users can tag products in their videos, and followers can make instant purchases without leaving the app. For Nigerian creators, this feature would be a game-changer, especially for small business owners and lifestyle influencers. But since it’s not yet available in Nigeria, they have to redirect followers to external websites or DMs, which reduces conversion rates.

    4. TikTok Influencer Affiliate Program

    Through the influencer affiliate feature, creators in supported regions can earn commissions by promoting products from TikTok Shop, similar to Amazon’s affiliate program. They don’t need direct brand deals; they simply post content featuring shop products, earning every time someone buys through their links. Nigerian creators currently can’t access this, meaning they miss out on passive income opportunities tied to the TikTok ecosystem.

    5. Monetise with the Series Feature

    The Series feature enables creators to put premium content behind a paywall, such as tutorials, mini-courses, or exclusive storytime videos and charge viewers to access it. It’s a way for creators to monetise their expertise directly, but it’s currently unavailable in Nigeria.

    6. Collect Tips from Viewers (Tipping)

    TikTok’s tipping feature allows fans to directly send money to creators as a token of appreciation for their content. It’s particularly useful for small creators building a loyal audience. Sadly, this feature hasn’t rolled out in Nigeria either, leaving creators dependent on third-party payment links or platforms like BuyMeACoffee.

    Top TikTok Tips to Make Money in 2025

    Making money on TikTok goes beyond just posting videos; it’s about strategy, consistency, and building a brand people trust. Here are the top ways to stand out and monetise smarter in 2025:

    1. Focus on a Niche and Build a Loyal Audience

    Random posts don’t cut it anymore. Stick to a niche that reflects your personality and attracts a specific audience. TikTok’s algorithm rewards creators who post consistently within a theme. A loyal community is what makes brands pay attention, not just follower count.

    2. Diversify Your Income Streams

    Don’t rely on one method. Combine sponsorships, affiliate links, cross-platform promotions, and live gifts. Many successful Nigerian creators build parallel income streams by running a YouTube channel, selling merch, or offering paid tutorials outside TikTok.

    3. Engage Consistently 

    The algorithm loves engagement: reply to comments, ask questions, and join trending challenges in your own style. The more you engage, the higher your chances of appearing on the “For You” page, which directly impacts visibility and brand opportunities.

    4. Keep Up With Global Trends and Updates

    Since some monetisation tools are not yet available in Nigeria, stay ahead by following global creator updates. Use VPNs (ethically and safely) only for research to see how international creators structure partnerships, ad integrations, and shop links. This helps you pitch more effectively when opportunities open up locally.

    5. Pitch to Brands — Don’t Wait to Be Discovered

    You don’t need to wait for the Creator Marketplace. Reach out to Nigerian brands whose values align with your content. Send them a short pitch deck with your audience demographics, engagement rate, and video examples. Brands love creators who understand their own worth.

    6. Track Your Analytics

    TikTok’s analytics dashboard provides insights into your reach, engagement, and audience demographics. Use this data to refine your content strategy and justify your rates to brands. Numbers speak louder than follower counts when negotiating deals.

    7. Stay Consistent and Experiment

    TikTok changes fast — trends, formats, and features evolve constantly. Test new content styles, post consistently, and learn what resonates with your audience. Growth is slow at first, but the creators who adapt quickly are the ones who turn views into money.

    8. Be Authentic — It’s Your Real Currency

    Audiences can sense when you’re forcing a trend or selling something you don’t believe in. The more genuine you are, in your tone, humour, and storytelling, the more trust (and eventually sales or collaborations) you’ll earn.

    Being authentic doesn’t mean oversharing; it means being real enough that people believe you, like you, and want to support what you do.

    »More: 5 Nigerians Break Down the Side Hustles That Pay More Than Their Salaries

    Common Mistakes to Avoid to Make Money on TikTok

    Even the most creative TikTokers can lose money or opportunities if they don’t play it smart. Here are the pitfalls to watch out for:

    1. Chasing Virality Over Value

    Not every viral video leads to income. Going viral for a random skit doesn’t guarantee brand deals or loyal followers. Focus on creating content that aligns with your niche and potential partners’ audiences, not just what’s trending.

    2. Ignoring Your Analytics

    If you’re not tracking what works, you’re shooting in the dark. Many creators post blindly without checking which videos drive engagement or conversions. Analytics help you spot patterns, refine your content, and prove your value to brands.

    3. Overpricing or Undervaluing Yourself

    New creators often accept low deals just to get brand experience — or quote unrealistic prices that scare clients away. Research what similar creators charge and negotiate based on engagement, not follower count.

    4. Failing to Disclose Paid Partnerships

    Transparency builds trust. Always tag your branded content as “sponsored” or “paid partnership.” It’s not only ethical but also prevents brands from blacklisting you for non-disclosure.

    5. Copying Instead of Creating

    It’s tempting to mimic trending creators, but originality is what keeps people watching. Adapt trends to your own personality and voice. TikTok’s algorithm also rewards originality and penalises reposted or recycled content.

    6. Falling for Scams

    Fake brand emails and DMs are everywhere, especially ones asking you to download files or pay for “verification.” Only collaborate through verified company emails or official brand websites. No legit brand will ask you to pay to work with them.

    The Bottom Line

    TikTok may not have all its monetisation tools available in Nigeria yet, but this doesn’t mean you can’t cash out. Creators who understand their audience, post with intention, and build strong personal brands are already making real income through sponsorships, affiliate links, and cross-platform growth.

    The key is to treat your content like a business, not a pastime. Be strategic, stay consistent, and build relationships that extend beyond likes and follows.


    Read Next: How to Make Money Online as a Student in Nigeria, According to Students Actually Doing It 


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  • When the world first began watching Rodney on TikTok, he was a different person.

    Born in Anambra and raised in Abuja, he was a student and a dancer with dreams of becoming a star. But life, as he quickly learned, isn’t as easy to choreograph. While his passion for dance propelled him to viral fame, it also plunged him into a whirlwind of overnight celebrity, financial exploitation, and hard-earned lessons in trust and resilience.

    This is the story of Rodney’s evolution — from a shy, aspiring student to a digital superstar with over 7.3 million followers — and his fight to keep his voice and credibility intact.

    This is Rodney’s story as told to Marv.

    The first time I realised my life was changing was back in 2021. I was walking through my neighbourhood on my way to buy bread for my family when, out of nowhere, a group of children recognised me. 

    “Rodney! Rodney! Ehh. He’s the one! Rodney!” they shouted. I froze, caught off guard, as their voices echoed down the street.

    I was in old, faded clothes and slippers, completely unprepared for that kind of attention. They wanted pictures, and I had no choice but to pose. That moment, as overwhelming as it was, planted a seed: people were noticing me, not just online, but in real life. It was exhilarating, but it also made me start paying attention to how I looked when going out, even if it was just to school.

    Before TikTok, my life had been… just there. I was studying International Relations, coasting through classes I didn’t fully understand. Dance was mostly a hobby. I started back in secondary school and eventually joined a group called Dark Illusion, which, looking back, is a crazy name, but I thought it was cool at the time.

    My friends always hailed me as a good dancer, and while I didn’t overthink it, I did have this Step Up-inspired fantasy where I’d show up at university, show off my dance skills, and somehow become famous. 

    But when I got to uni, I quickly realised how delusional I’d been. Adulthood hit me hard, and I had to hustle just to survive.

    I kept dancing, but mostly as a way to pay small bills. I’d earn maybe ₦3,000 for a performance at a departmental pageant, a fresher’s party or some faculty event — just enough to cover some basic expenses. 

    I danced through 100 and 200 level, until COVID hit in the second semester of my 200 level, bringing everything to a standstill.

    During the lockdown, I was stuck at my parents’ house on the outskirts of Abuja. With no events or parties happening, my focus shifted. Instead of performing live, I started pouring my energy into social media, posting more dance videos on Instagram and TikTok.


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    By the time I was returning to school, I already had some online recognition — around 300 thousand followers on Instagram and TikTok, though the latter had the biggest following. Back then, TikTok was still new, creators were few, and having a following made people assume you were a big deal.

    But for me, it still felt small. I was posting out of boredom, mostly repurposing the same dance content I’d been sharing on Instagram. The growth was slow at first. My TikTok views were low compared to my following, and that’s when I realised that being on the app wasn’t enough. I needed to hop on trends and make quality content.

    Then one skit changed everything. It was a funny take on African parents who don’t show romance despite having up to 10 children. It exploded to around 100,000 views. I was shocked and excited.

    Before TikTok, I didn’t see myself as a funny person beyond my friend group. We’d troll and joke about situations, but it was all casual. TikTok gave me the confidence to really try comedy. 

    So, I started mixing in skits with my dance videos, and the audience responded more to the skits. So, I let my dance evolve and mix with comedy. I was still dancing, just in a goofy, funny way that fit my audience and even allowed me to reach more people.


    READ NEXT: My Mother Is a CAC Prophetess. But After My Sister Died From a Spiritual Attack, I Left the Church


    But shooting videos back then was rough for a while. We didn’t have Jamboxes, so the sound came straight from the phone as we recorded. I even had to borrow a friend’s phone just to make content.

    Data was another struggle. I relied on night plans to upload videos and check engagement. Slowly, the effort started to pay off — I was gaining traction, making a bit of money online, and settling bills myself.

    Still, growth was slower than I would have liked, mostly due to my camera quality. It matters more than people think. So, I saved up from the content and brand advertising gigs I got and borrowed a little from friends to get an iPhone 6. 

    The difference was almost immediate.

    The first month using it, one of my videos blew up, hitting a million views in a week. Followers started growing exponentially, sometimes 100k a week, other times 100k in a day. 

    That’s when I knew this was not just fun anymore. This was now a business.

    My popularity in school also exploded. Soon, I couldn’t walk around campus without someone secretly recording me to post on TikTok or freshers going crazy. 

    So, I started showing up only when I had strict lectures or exams. Thankfully, my classmates already knew me, so I could navigate without too much fuss. My friend group remained small and loyal, unaffected by my growing popularity. Others became acquaintances, riding the wave of my fame, but willing to help when needed.

    Despite all that, I started questioning if I still needed school at all. But I had to push through. My parents never allowed me to rest, and that constant pressure, combined with my own determination, meant I couldn’t stop. I didn’t take breaks in the traditional sense, though I wasn’t present for all my lectures, especially in 400 level, where it was mostly project work.

    The thought of quitting school never left my head, but I chose to see it through to the end. I got my degree. 

    Around this time, I began charging more for gigs. I furnished my space, bought better equipment and improved my content quality. My parents, especially my dad, were sceptical at first. But over time, he saw the money coming in, heard people talking about me, and even started watching my videos.

    He eventually gave me his blessing, with one condition: that I chase my dream without compromising my morals. That blessing lit a fire in me. I went harder with my content, posting more, taking on bigger opportunities and getting recognition. 

    That was when I met my supposed manager. At first, he was just a loyal client who brought multiple gigs. Eventually, he positioned himself as someone who could help me grow. 

    When we met for the first time in Lagos in 2021, the only time we ever met, he claimed to have industry connections. At first, he seemed helpful. He secured a couple of gigs, and I thought, maybe this will be my big break.

    But soon, the red flags emerged.

    He was a free agent with no structure, so he started manipulating payments. If a brand paid him ₦2,000 naira for my service, he would tell me I only earned ₦100. And it was from that same ₦100, he would collect his 30% manager fee.

    He was a manipulative gaslighter who pretended to care about my career while exploiting me. He presented himself almost as a big brother, giving me a false sense of security. There was one brand that supposedly hadn’t paid, yet I found out months later that they had. I had to reach out to them directly, only to be shown receipts. Over time, I realised I’d lost tens of millions of naira to his schemes.


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    During this period, I tried to branch into music. My first song, “Wisdom Drill,” started as a parody video, but fans loved it, so I put it on streaming platforms. In early 2023, I considered releasing another track. My manager convinced me to host a listening party, promising it would boost streams.

    I was hesitant about the cost, but he assured me it would be worth it. I ended up spending nearly ten million naira on the event. People showed up, but the experience exposed how disorganised everything was, and how badly I needed a proper team.

    By first the quarter of 2023, I was broke, struggling to survive on the little I had left. I even had to reach out to brands myself, realising that he had been sabotaging my career. The revelation was devastating, but it pushed me to reclaim control. I confronted him, threatened to call him out publicly, and the next day, he blocked me. When I tried to travel to Lagos to see him, I found out that he had even left the country, leaving me completely on my own. Last time I heard about him, he was in China.

    His actions didn’t just rob me financially, they threatened my credibility. Brands began reaching out with legal threats, and his explanations were vague, often non-existent. I had no choice but to clean up the mess he created. It was exhausting and infuriating. Yet, it also forced me to recognise my value and the importance of taking control of my career.

    Recovering from that betrayal meant starting fresh. I posted online to declare that I was no longer affiliated with him. Transparency became my guiding principle. I joined a new team that was honest, professional, and structured, giving me the support I needed to rebuild. That fresh start helped me regain credibility, attract brands again, and focus on my craft without interference.

    Looking back, the journey taught me resilience. It taught me to trust my instincts, to value my work, and to understand that even in moments of overwhelming visibility, control over your own career is paramount.

    By the time I had my father’s blessing and started creating with confidence, I realised something crucial: the money, the followers, and the fame were just tools. The real victory was taking charge, refusing to be manipulated, and ensuring my creativity and hustle were respected and protected.


    ALSO READ: 10 Nigerian Comedy Skits that Perfectly Describe Lagos Life


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  • This week in Johannesburg, South Africa, TikTok held its first-ever Digital Well-being Summit in Africa. Policymakers, mental health experts, creators, and NGOs from across the continent (Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana) came together to talk about how to make the internet less overwhelming and more helpful, especially for young people.

    “People come to TikTok to learn, share their experiences, and connect with communities around the world. That is why we work collaboratively with our partners to build a digital space that reflects our collective commitment to safety, innovation, and positive social impact,” says Fortune Mgwili-Sibanda, Director of Public Policy and Government Relations, TikTok.

    TikTok also came prepared with some major updates and features aimed at helping Africans manage their digital lives better. From mental health support to meditation features, here’s everything they’re rolling out:

    1. Meditation Is Now Built Into TikTok

    TikTok is now offering a guided meditation feature within the app. It’s part of a tool called Sleep Hours, which automatically kicks in at 10pm for users under 18 (older users can opt in too). The idea? Help people, especially teens, wind down, breathe easier, and stop scrolling endlessly when they should be getting some rest.

    Mindful meditation is proven to help with sleep and emotional balance, and TikTok wants to help young users develop healthier nighttime habits without shaming them for being online.

    2. A $2.3 Million Mental Health Fund—Now Open to African Organisations

    TikTok’s Mental Health Education Fund, which launched in 2023, just expanded to include Sub-Saharan Africa. For the first time, African mental health organisations will get funding and support to create content that tackles stigma and spreads mental health awareness.

    The first three African partners are:

    • South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
    • Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI)
    • Kenya’s Mental360

    Expect to see more local, relatable, and culturally relevant mental health content from these organisations, with the help of TikTok’s ad power and platform reach.

    3. In-App Helplines for When You Need Real Support

    In the coming weeks, African users will start seeing local mental health helplines directly inside the TikTok app, especially when they’re reporting content related to suicide, self-harm, bullying, hate, or harassment.

    It’s like TikTok saying, “Hey, we’re taking this seriously,” and offering real-time access to counselling and mental health resources, not just content removals. These helplines have already been tested in Europe and are now making their way to the continent.

    “TikTok is committed to user safety and community well-being and provides tools and protections to help our community enjoy their experience on the platform. But to achieve this, we all need to play a very vital role in fostering a secure and respectful environment,” says Mercy Kimaku, Regional Risk Prevention Lead (Sub-Saharan Africa).

    4. Mental Health Ambassadors Are Here to Talk You Through the Tough Stuff

    TikTok is also teaming up with the World Health Organization to introduce its first-ever Mental Health Ambassadors from across Africa. These are verified medical professionals who’ll be sharing expert advice and relatable content on mental health, emotional well-being, and how to deal with online stress.

    Meet the first African ambassadors:

    • Sanam Naran (South Africa)
    • Dr Claire Kinuthia (Kenya)
    • Doctor Wales (Nigeria)
    • Doctor Siya (South Africa)

    They’ll be popping up more in your feed. Think of them as your TikTok-friendly therapists in your pocket.

    5. #MentalHealthMatters Is Getting Bigger

    If you’ve seen the hashtag #MentalHealthMatters around TikTok, you’re not alone. TikTok says it’s doubling down on this campaign to keep pushing conversations about self-care, therapy, anxiety, and mental health into the mainstream.

    So next time you see a TikTok reminding you to take a break or breathe, don’t scroll past too quickly.

    Why This Matters

    TikTok knows it’s a huge part of many people’s daily lives, especially young Africans. These updates show that the platform is paying attention to how being online affects mental health, and it’s trying to create tools that actually help, not just keep people scrolling.

    It’s not perfect, but it’s a step forward. And with African organisations now getting direct support, the conversation around mental health is finally becoming a lot more local, and a lot more real.

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  • You’re trying to post a fire Reel on Instagram or a video on TikTok, but your song choice isn’t giving. What you need is the right hit song to upgrade your content and get people’s attention.

    To do that, you need a track that makes people stop scrolling and say, “Wait—I need this sound.”

    Whether you’re soft-launching your boo, serving face and outfit, or just dancing in your room like nobody’s watching, the right song is the cheat code. Lucky for you, I’ve gathered and ranked 15 of the best Nigerian songs that’ll make your content slap. Thank me later.

    15. “Na Scra” — Famous Pluto

    “Na Scra” is a street anthem that captures the chaotic lifestyle of the young and reckless—from having multiple women on speed dial to wild sexcapades. On his debut single, Famous Pluto glorifies crime, fast money, and unfiltered youthful energy.

    He’s not just any new artist—he’s the younger brother of street-pop stars Shallipopi and Zerry DL.

    If you’re looking for a fresh street-pop banger for your next Reel, this is it.

    14. “Cana Remix” — Haystixx feat. Portable & Haytee

    Producer Haystixx teams up with Portable and Haytee on the remix of “Cana,” a vibey track that pays homage to Canadian Loud—a popular and pricey cannabis strain in Nigeria.

    You don’t have to be a stoner to vibe to this one. It’s a cruise-heavy, catchy track that’s perfect for fun, carefree Reels and TikToks.

    13. “Omo Lile” — Danny S

    In English, “Omo Lile” loosely translates to a stubborn or rebellious child. But in Nigerian pop culture, the phrase has taken on a more empowering meaning—someone who’s determined, persistent, and unstoppable.

    With its addictive beat and repetitive chorus, this track sticks instantly. And it’s not just for the streets—if you’re someone who pushes through adversity and refuses to back down, this song will hit home.

    12. “Ma Fi Sia Pa Won” — Segun Johnson

    Popular Owambe performer Segun Johnson went viral after performing what appears to be a new composition titled “Ma Fi Sia Pa Won” at a wedding four months ago. The title roughly translates to “I’ll kill them with show-off.”

    It’s a high-energy, danceable track for enjoyment seekers—or anyone with a message for their haters and gossipers. Instead of killing them with kindness, why not kill them with confidence?

    If that’s your vibe, this is the soundtrack your video needs.

    11. “My Darling” — Chella

    Chella blends Afrobeats with Amapiano to pour his heart out in this love-soaked anthem. With soft falsettos and irresistible melodies, he sings about being under the spell of his lover’s charm—and he’s not even mad about it.

    Whether you’re soft-launching your boo or showing off your dance moves, this track sets the perfect romantic vibe.

    10. “Hey Jago” — Pocolee, Shoday & Rahman Jago

    In the spirit of street-pop anthems like 9ice’s “Living Things”, “Hey Jago” is part eulogy, part motivation. It celebrates Rahman Jago—a Nigerian fashion and lifestyle influencer known for his High Fashion brand—and uses him as a symbol of ghetto-to-glam success.

    Shoday’s vocals carry aspirations of rising above struggle, with Jago as the blueprint. If you’re looking for a track that motivates, energises, or just makes your legwork hit harder, this is it.

    9. “Fuji Flavour” — Pasuma

    Fuji legend Wasiu Alabi Pasuma taps into the timeless narrative of rest after labour with his latest release, “Fuji Flavour.” In true weekend spirit, he delivers a 30-minute sonic celebration of enjoyment and well-earned relaxation.

    If you’re a Fuji lover—or you proudly identify as a Minister of Enjoyment—this one belongs in your Reels rotation.


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    8. “See Me, See God (SMSG)” — Barry Jhay

    The ninth track on Barrystar Vol. 1, “SMSG” deepens Barry Jhay’s signature Afro-Adura sound—a blend of spiritual praise, self-affirmation, and street-rooted motivation. The song opens with a sample from one of his father, Sikiru “Barrister” Ayinde’s early tracks, adding a nostalgic layer to the emotion.

    Whether you’re in a gratitude mood or need a reminder that you’re on the right path, this track delivers the motivation and melody.

    7. “Ginger Me (Alum)” — Niniola

    Niniola continues her streak of bold, sensual storytelling on “Ginger Me (Alum).” The song dives into themes of sexual appetite, consent, and education. She candidly recounts a partner suggesting a threesome and uses the track to encourage safe sex—reminding listeners not to skip those STI checkups.

    But the track takes a controversial turn when she references alum as a method for vaginal tightening—a harmful and outdated myth rooted in patriarchal standards of sexual pleasure. While that line deserves criticism, the rest of the song stands strong as a vibrant, catchy jam.

    If you want a beat that’s provocative and percussive, this is it.

    6. “Venus” — Faceless feat. Serøtonin

    If you’ve spent any time on TikTok recently, chances are you’ve heard this song at least once. “Venus” by producer Faceless and vocalist Serøtonin has been everywhere, and for good reason.

    Built around themes of love and emotional reassurance, the track features a soothing falsetto and dreamy production that’s perfect for slow-motion edits, lip-syncs, or soft-launch moments. It’s the kind of sound that calms the heart and gets the fingers tapping “use this audio.”

    5. “Is It A Crime” — Rema

    Rema reimagines Sade Adu’s iconic 1986 R&B ballad “Is It a Crime” as a smooth Afrobeats track, flipping its soulful longing into a tale of unrequited love—Rema style. While Sade sings about loving someone more than they love her, Rema comes with confidence (and a little pressure), reminding his love interest of his money, fame, swag, and aura.

    He’s persistent, but makes it clear: “I no dey for too much whining.” It’s flirtation with a hint of ego—and it works. Whether you’re in your feelings, flirting in your captions, or just feeling yourself, this one sets the mood.

    4. “Bana” — Niniola

    If you know Niniola, you know she never holds back. Her 2018 Afro-house hit “Bana” is a bold, sensual anthem that delivers unfiltered feminine expression around sex, desire, and pleasure. In it, she paints a vivid, almost celebratory picture of male sexual appeal—yes, “Bana” is essentially a love letter to the schlong, and we’re not mad at it.

    Seven years after its release, the song is enjoying a second life on Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat Reels—proof that good music (and good vibes) are timeless. If you’re a certified freak or just in your “IDGAF” era, this one’s for you.


    READ NEXT: The 40 Greatest Davido Songs of All Time, Ranked by Fans


    3. “MMS” — Asake & Wizkid

    “MMS,” short for “Mr. Money Sound,” goes deeper than its flashy title suggests. At its core, the song is a reflection on the vanity of life and the reality that, no matter our status, we all return to dust. Featured on Asake’s Lungu Boy album, the track sees him revisit his humble beginnings with a battle-hardened, almost militant perspective.

    Wizkid brings a meditative tone, opening up about loss, purpose, and the passing of his mother. Together, they deliver a soul-stirring anthem that has also given birth to a new social lingo—“MMS,” now shorthand for God knows best on Nigerian internet.

    If you’re in your feelings—about life, money, love, or the weight of adulthood—this is the track that says it all for you.

    2. “No Turning Back II” — Gaise Baba feat. Lawrence Oyor

    Gaise Baba and Lawrence Oyor breathe new life into the classic 19th-century hymn “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” with an infectious blend of Afro-gospel and Amapiano. The result? A danceable declaration of faith that’s already making waves on TikTok and Instagram.

    Lawrence Oyor’s standout line—“I can never turn back o / It’s already too late o / It won’t make sense o”—is quickly becoming a viral sound. If you want a track that celebrates your devotion to Jesus while still letting you move your body, this is the one to add to your Reels.

    1. “With You” — Davido feat. Omah Lay

    Davido teams up with Omah Lay for “With You”, a sensual, melodic banger that oozes obsession and desire. This marks Davido’s first-ever collaboration with Omah Lay and the chemistry is undeniable.

    The track closes Davido’s 5IVE album and blends nostalgia with innovation. It samples Skinny Fabulous’ “Watch Thing” (2016) and nods to Bright Chimezie’s “Because of English”—creating a rich sonic throwback that still feels fresh in 2025.

    Whether you’re showing off your soft life, boo’d up moments, or just vibing in the glow of good love, “With You” is the perfect soundtrack.


    ALSO READ: 15 of the Funniest Nigerians to Follow on TikTok Right Now

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  • In just one year and 10 months, Sefunmi Alabi worked from six countries across three continents — all while employed at TikTok as part of their global cybersecurity team. From London to Singapore to his final stop in Japan, each trip was fully covered by the company.

    How did he pull it off? And more importantly, how can you do the same?

    This is his story, As Told To Dennis

    2025: Working from Japan

    I nestled into my room in Japan in a breeze. It was my first time in the country. By now, I was no stranger to settling in quickly in strange new lands. I had done it before.

    In the past year and ten months, working as a Cyber Security Engineer at TikTok, I have done it five times — in Dublin, London, the US, Singapore, China, and Japan. This was the sixth time, and it would also be my last, that is, as a work trip for TikTok.

    You see, I have resigned from TikTok. In May, I started a new role at Amazon Web Services as a Senior Security Engineer. So, I decided I will not be leaving Japan immediately after my work for TikTok is complete in the country. I will stay a bit longer and call it a vacation. I am so blessed. God has been good. Life has been good.

    2000s: Growing up in Kaduna

    I have been a nomad all my life. I was born in northern Kaduna, the youngest of three siblings, and lived my formative years in the state. But when the Sharia riots started, my family moved to southern Kaduna, where more Christians lived. Later, my father was transferred to Lagos, and we moved with him. 

    We attended the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. I went to Babcock High School. My siblings all went to university. 

    When it came time for me to go to Babcock University, I told my father I wanted to go to aviation school. I passed the exam, but I was not yet eighteen, so I couldn’t resume. Later, he asked me to consider Valley View University in Ghana, where I studied Computer Science. I knew nobody in the country, but I knew my fate was sealed. I would be a computer scientist. After I graduated, I got a job as an engineer in Ghana and started life.


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    ALSO READ: How Anchi Vibes Grew From 15k to 780k Followers on TikTok


    2017: NYSC in Abuja

    Later, my father said I should return to Nigeria for NYSC. Returning to Lagos felt like returning to the nest. So I went to Abuja and served at the Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI). After four years, I started thinking about my life. Nigeria wouldn’t give me what I wanted, what I deserved.

    So I saved up, sold my car, and told my parents I had decided to leave the country. 

    Two days to Christmas in 2021, I wore a shirt and jeans, threw my laptop in a tote bag, wore a face cap, got on a plane and moved to Dublin for a Master’s in Cybersecurity at the National College of Ireland. I just wanted to leave that country and start to live my dream. I took nothing from my life in Nigeria with me.

    2022: Life in Dublin

    Failure was not an option. I knew I had to get a job before graduating. I took tons of courses online. I did a 100 Days of Hacking challenge. I tried really hard to upscale myself. Even though I was in a senior role at CCSI in Nigeria, I applied for internships in cybersecurity in Dublin.

    When I saw that the Central Bank of Ireland was looking for two interns in the whole of the EU, I sent a cold email to the hiring manager and made my case. They hired me. After I graduated, they offered me a full-time position as an information security analyst.

    2023: Starting at TikTok

    I had applied to TikTok multiple times but didn’t hear back from them. But on a random day, I got a message from a headhunter who worked at TikTok on LinkedIn asking if I was interested in a role that had opened up. I thought it was a spam message. I was a cybersecurity expert — why wouldn’t I think that? I was wrong. I did six interviews. Only one was about culture fit. The rest were on coding. In August 2023, I joined them as a Security Analyst. I worked on Project Clover, a €12 billion data security initiative. In March 2024, I became a Security Engineer.

    At TikTok, I enrolled in Stanford for an advanced cybersecurity degree, and later at University College Dublin for an advanced Artificial Intelligence program. Both were one-year programs. I completed both in nine months while working full-time at TikTok.

    Life at TikTok

    When you work at a place like TikTok, there are only a few Nigerians there, which can be daunting. But I never felt alienated; I never allowed myself to. I always focused on the work.

    My approach to working in big tech is that I am solely responsible for blending in. My colleagues are also trying to fit in and do their jobs. They don’t have the time to make me feel as welcome as I might like. I just focus on my work.

    Sometimes, people feel that speaking at meetings is work because they will be seen. But what I found is that work is work. Getting things done is work. Your output will speak for you, not how well you ride on other people’s waves. Just do things in a timely manner, aligned with the company’s goals. Document everything you do and make sure it’s available for appraisal.

    Travelling for TikTok

    TikTok is a global company with teams around the world. The cybersecurity team is also global, and we need to meet from time to time to sync on work. So, the company takes us to different outposts, where we spend weeks, sometimes months, working on projects as a team.

    At first, they took me to London, which is close to Dublin. Later the US, then Singapore, China, and finally Japan. These were work trips, and they felt just the way you might imagine a work trip would feel. This is one of the perks that comes with working for a tech giant.

    In the past year and ten months that I worked at TikTok, when these work trips ended, I returned to Dublin, where I worked from. But things were changing for me. I was heading to Amazon Web Services, so after my last work trip, I decided to stay a bit longer. It was a much-needed vacation after years of working hard.

    Leaving TikTok for Amazon Web Services (AWS)

    I didn’t know that AWS was hiring. I am not even sure they posted the role. But someone reached out to me again on LinkedIn and asked if I was interested in a role at Amazon. I work as a Senior Security Engineer there now. I started in May. This is also a security role, but it is different from what I was doing at TikTok. I am working with a Shield Infrastructure/Response team. 

    My next five years

    I am also so grateful that I get to send my parents money. Who wouldn’t want to flex their parents when life has been so good to them? They’ve also been dropping subtle hints about marriage. They haven’t been very vocal, but they’ve been making comments about women. I’m not interested in a relationship right now. I just want to focus on my work and life. One of my siblings is married and has children, so they can play with them.

    In five years, I see myself in 2030. I find that projections can be limiting. So let’s leave it at this: in 2030, I’ll still be learning new skills. In January, I started a Certificate Program in Digital Transformation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. I want to spend my life learning new things. It has helped me come this far, and I never want to stop.

    I want to make interview guides available for people like me who want to pursue careers in cybersecurity. So this year, I am trying to write a book. I know I’m a very resilient person. If I say I will do a thing, unless Jesus comes to stop me, I will. I started an academy for people looking to learn tech skills: Shefs Labs Cybersecurity Academy. That is my focus right now.


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    ALSO READ: Remember This Meme? The Man Behind It Became a Pastor and Moved to Ghana

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  • Years after TikTok took us through the pandemic, we still find ourselves doomscrolling on the platform, looking for content to while away the time. But with the sheer number of creators — some 1.3 million of them, according to Social Blade — figuring out which accounts will actually crack you up can be a hassle.

    That’s where we come in. On this list, we’ve curated the funniest Nigerian TikTokers you should be following right now. We tried to make the list as varied as possible, to match any sense of humour. Not to brag, but our picks can stand toe to toe with your favourite comedians. 

    Here are the 15 funniest Nigerian TikTokers you should follow now.

    1. Gilmore

    Gilmore tells wild and ridiculous stories about everyday life as an adult living in Lagos. Watching Gilmore’s videos is like experiencing an unending POV video of your reactions to life. Everything from life in boarding school to buying bread on credit has been the subject of his videos.

    2. Zic Aloma

    Zic Aloma finds his humour in archetypes of African parents, which he uses to create full-fletched skits that would not have been out of place in an early-aught Nollywood flick. His story of life in a “face me I face you” compound, which the actress Patience Ozokwor features in, has been viewed over 7.5 million times. If you love old Nollywood, you will love his content.

    @zicsaloma

    Face me I Face You Be Like 😂😂😂

    ♬ original sound – Aloma Isaac Junior

    3. Hauwa Lawal

    Hauwa Lawal has perfected the act of making social commentary in a way that cracks you up while also forcing you to think. The fall of the naira, life as a single woman in Nigeria, and the pressures young people face to get married have all been subjects of her content. If you’re looking for someone to help make sense of the world in the most ridiculous way, then she’s your girl.

    4. Two Glazzes

    With his content, Two Glazzes asks the public a simple question: what does it mean to be delulu all the time? He has the answers. If you want to know the POV of men who think they’re overly attractive or how low-budget tech bros see themselves, Two Glazzes’s TikTok is the account for you.

    @two_glazzes

    Omo na the economy abeg😔🥲🤲🏽💔💔 …. 😂😂😂 W/ @Jenni🎀 | Mobile Videographer @Paschal @Eke Eke-Orji @crazyjegeboi #comedyvideo #funny #relatable #brothers #fyp #goviral #twoglazzes

    ♬ original sound – Two glazzes

    5. r0dn3y_

    r0dn3y_ makes POV videos imagining what ordinary scenarios would look like from another perspective. A video where he reimagines what the tongue and teeth might be going through while chewing has been viewed 3.3 million times. He has made similar videos on being a primary school pupil, the feeling when a barber gets to the itchy spots on your head, and what secondary school students do during free periods. His content cleverly flips everyday moments into laugh-out-loud experiences.

    6. Meshkieyy

    Meshkieyy’s hard-to-watch TikToks are currently all the rage online. Although he has been making content for a while, in the last few months, his videos have been blowing up on TikTok — and for good reason. He makes hilariously cringe videos about life as a young man trying to survive in Lagos. His skits blend awkward everyday encounters with a sharp sense of observational humour that’s fast becoming his signature.

    @meshkieyy

    If you see me in ShopRite, please just buy your thing and pass🙏🏽 no need to cause a scene 😭 W// @MESOBLOW @joshua.ejim #meshkiey #pov #fyp #relatable #tiktokviral #explore

    ♬ Camouflage Day Meditation – Erica Mason

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    7. Layi Wasabi

    The law. Layi Wasabi has maintained relevance as one of the funniest Nigerians on TikTok. One of his signature characters is a charge-and-bail lawyer who has no idea, most times, what he’s talking about, but delivers it with so much impunity that it cracks people up. What’s funnier is how he continues to find new victims. He has already introduced other characters, including the Prof, the Coach, and the Gym Bro. His content leans into satirical legalese and exaggerated professionalism, giving courtroom chaos a whole new meaning.

    8. Simply Sayo

    Take Simply Sayo seriously at your own risk. When she’s not reading the news or making confessionals on TikTok, she’s delivering what she calls kpoems — spoken word-style takes on wild experiences — as a means to tackle everything from toxic masculinity to 50/50 bill splits among couples. Her content feels like a chaotic TED Talk wrapped in vibes and delivered with a side of dry humour.

    9. Beverly Adaeze

    Beverly makes viral “X be like” videos on TikTok. She has made videos about Black people hiking, gynaecologists at work, and what comes to mind when she sees a video of a person with long hair (how much it would cost as extensions). Her content is a running commentary on the random, hilarious thoughts that live rent-free in her head — and if you follow her, in yours too.

    @beverlyadaeze

    I’d make a great Gynecologist because they get in there and just start doing any ol thing 😂 #obgyn #gynecologist #parody #medicaltiktok

    ♬ original sound – Bev Ada| Lifestyle+Comedy

    10. Chisomdaveed

    Chisom has takes for days. How does one have beef with people that don’t know they exist? She has the answers. Her takedown of men who say they’d rather marry a man than a woman who doesn’t know how to cook is particularly epic. If you love sharp, sarcastic takes on gender discourse, this is where you’ll find them.

    11. Ini Cash

    Ini Cash makes POV videos on what it means to live on your phone. In his videos, he recreates the reactions of people who go online and realise that life has continued without them. He has made videos on everything from checking if the couples you stalk on social media are still together to reacting to comments after your partner posts cute pictures of you. His content taps into the paranoia, obsession, and the comedy of online relationships.

    @ini_cash

    And everyone better be at their assigned location 😭 #inicash

    ♬ original sound – Ini Cash

    12. Kenzy Udosen

    What if you could say what you feel about people to their faces? On Kenzy’s TikTok, you can live that — and also see their reactions. In a video he made about people who do “new year, new me,” he blasted what he perceived to be hypocrisy in the comments. As he calls it, “The only new thing about the new year is that you’re getting older.”

    @kenzy.udosen

    One word for Cassandra? 😭😂 #MadamT

    ♬ original sound – Kenzy Udosen

    13. sharon.ephraim_

    Sharon doesn’t shy away from criticising other creators on TikTok with her skits. In particular, a series she does called “Egungun and His Baddies” has been very popular on the platform. With the series, she makes a caricature of the content creator known as Egungun asking women weird questions about their sex lives. It’s fun to watch.

    14. Neekahs

    There are very few people as funny as Neekahs on TikTok these days. Her recreation of viral audio is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh. What makes her videos stand out, and very hilarious, is how perfectly she captions what might very well be the facial expressions of the people speaking in the audio. Even though we can’t see them, we trust Neekahs will always bring them to life.

    15. Xxximogen

    You only need to watch the video of Imogen trying to pronounce Moët Chandon to understand why he’s on this list — and why you should follow him ASAP on TikTok. In his videos, he makes funny reactions from the neighbour’s POV to everything from someone trying to charge their phone at the next house, to his savage response to people acting like Priscilla Ojo and her husband’s wedding wasn’t their cup of tea.


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    ALSO READ: How Anchi Vibes Grew From 15k to 780k Followers on TikTok

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  • In February 2025, Chioma Anyanwu, better known as AnChi Vibes, was named ‘TikTok Creator of the Year’ at the Sub-Saharan Africa TikTok Awards. Her quick, witty takes on film and TV culture  — like debating who the greatest wizard is between Merlin, Zeddicus Zu’l Zorander, and Dumbledore — have made her a go-to voice in Nigerian pop commentary.

    @anchi_vibes

    Who is the most powerful sorcerer/wizard of all time? 🎥🍿 A. Gandalf (Lordoftherings) B. Dumbledore (Harrypotter) C. Merlin #whattowatch #merlin #movietok #movierecommendation #harrypotter

    ♬ original sound – AnChi Vibes

    She went viral in 2022 with a slow-motion running video set to the “Kumama Yoruba Version” song, and has since grown her TikTok following from 15,000 to over 780,000. 

    Here’s how AnChi Vibes did it, as told to Dennis.

    The beginning: Starting during the pandemic

    Like many people, I started making videos during the 2020 lockdown. The first video I posted was a lip sync video. That was what was trending at the time, so I made a lot. Later, I started making dance videos, even though I was not a very good dancer. I have since made all those videos private on TikTok.

    I was working in a bank at the time, but I resigned in 2022 to focus on TikTok. Honestly, working in a bank was the ghetto. I was working as a customer care representative, and it was not allowing me to utilise my creativity. I felt stuck, and that’s why I quit. 

    During that time, I focused on making content, but the growth was slow. The engagement was low, and my follower count was not growing. Eventually, I got a job at Pulse Nigeria as a TikTok manager. It aligned perfectly with what I loved: making content. All the stars had aligned in my favour. So I focused on that.

    Hitting 15k followers: My first breakthrough

    The first video people really engaged with was me dueting with a man who was twerking — it was during COVID, and everyone just wanted to be entertained. I wasn’t even good at twerking, but I tried to mimic him, and people loved it. At the time, I had under 5,000 followers. This grew my followers to around 10,000.

    I jumped into other challenges that came. There was a challenge that Don Jazzy started when Simi’s “Duduke” dropped. I jumped on that, and it gave me lots of engagement as well. This took me to over 15,000 followers.

    I started doing a lot of dancing, slow-mo, and lip sync videos. That’s when I started focusing on what worked.

    From 15k to 200k followers: Going Viral with Kumama

    The video that changed everything was the Kumama Yoruba Version trend. I became the face of that trend. I wore a pink sweater and ran in slow motion — people felt the spirit! It got over a million views in a few days. Funke Akindele even reposted me.

    @anchi_vibes

    Reply to @snayomagopeni P.S I’m not Yoruba,who knows the proverb part? #fyp #viral #anchivibes #kumama

    ♬ KumamaYorubaVersion by Abosede – Abosede

    People started watching my old videos, too — some crossed a million views. I tried other things like interviews and hosting, but they didn’t take off at the time. People wanted slow-motion, makeup, dance, and fashion transition videos, so I made those videos, which got me to 200k followers.

    Hitting 700k followers: Finding my Niche

    When I joined Pulse, I was creating entertainment news content, which helped me understand the category better. I refined my approach to content on my page. I covered celebrity news, TikTok updates, and even birthday vlogs of other influencers. Whenever influencers on TikTok were celebrating their birthdays, I made vlogs of the parties, and people enjoyed them. When there was drama between influencers, I made videos about that too.

    I also posted “get ready with me” clips and behind-the-scenes content, and it worked — TikTok started pushing my videos to the For You Page (FYP).

    Later, I pivoted to recaps of Big Brother Naija and The Real Housewives of Lagos, and eventually, to movie reviews. That’s what really defined my niche on the platform.


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    ALSO READ: 10 Nigerian Creators To Look Out for in 2025


    The content tools I use as a TikTok Creator

    TikTok likes high-quality content — both in video and substance. I started with an Android, but when I got an iPhone, the growth was immediate. My videos looked better.

    Lighting mattered too. At first, I shot under a tree, far from home. I’d take an okada there just to catch good sunlight. Later, I bought an LED light and a colour light. I bought the coloured light not because I needed it, but to stand out visually.

    The tools I use to make my content are:

    • CapCut to edit. I use the free version and don’t pay 
    • Canva occasionally for visuals, which costs me ₦2,700 per month
    • LensGo wireless mic. This cost me ₦30,000
    • iPhone 12 Pro Max (This costs ₦880,000 on Jumia)

    I also wear makeup sometimes because brands like that clean aesthetic, but I still post barefaced when I have to catch a trend early. TikTok prioritises speed. Time to market is very important.

    How I make money as a Creator

    The story of how I first made money on TikTok is complicated because I didn’t negotiate a fee and didn’t expect to be paid. This was before the Kumama video went viral. Someone I knew asked if I could host a live stream of a football match on TikTok. I wasn’t even into football, but I did it. Then he gave me ₦30,000 after. That was the first time I was paid for my content.

    Later, I got ₦50k to promote a song. When I started doing film content, I got paid ₦50k – ₦100k to promote the movie, depending on the project and how I negotiated. Now, I mostly promote movies.

    How long does it take me to make a TikTok video?

    Green screen videos take about 2 hours — scriptwriting, filming, and editing. No effects or captions. In green screen videos, it’s just my head people see.

    Full-body videos take 5 hours. I have to get dressed, wear makeup, set up lights and my tripod, shoot multiple takes, add subtitles, and edit down to under 3 minutes. Just setting up alone can take up to 45 minutes.

    Event coverage is different. I go with someone to help me film. Like at the Headies — I posted live from the venue. A vlog I did of Priscilla Ojo and Juma Jux wedding did over 2 million views.

    @anchi_vibes

    Some clips the media won’t show you #jp2025 😍🎥🇳🇬 #tiktoknigeria #tiktoktanzania🇹🇿

    ♬ original sound – AnChi Vibes

    What I spend money on

    I don’t spend much. Uber, data, Netflix, Showmax. But generator costs — repairs and fuel — take the most. My biggest investment is learning: watching TikTok tutorials. I don’t use YouTube. TikTok is my school.

    How I manage burnout

    Right now, I haven’t posted in four days — partly because I’m house hunting. Creating content is exhausting. Sometimes I make multiple posts in one day, so I can take like three days to rest. Rest for me is sleep, movies, and anything offline.

    My regrets as a TikTok creator

    I don’t have many regrets. But I will say this: content creation in Nigeria is about networking. You need a clique. You need to show up at people’s houses, host people at yours, and be in the right spaces.

    I didn’t do that. And sometimes, it stings — seeing others get opportunities just because they belong to the right circle. But I am happy with how I chose to live my life.


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    ALSO READ: Meet Aida, the TikTok Gossip Whisperer With Nuance

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  • There is a concept for the type of videos that Amadou Elizabeth, who garnered a following on TikTok as @realjadrolita or just Jarvis, makes. Typically, she wears a suit not so dissimilar to a Marvel superhero. But hers, unlike Spiderman’s spider webs, is covered with a robot’s body parts. She walks up to random strangers and introduces herself as Jadrolita, a self-help artificial intelligence. She is an impression of Alita, the protagonist in the 2019 Hollywood sci-fi flick, Alita: Battle Angel.

    Jadrolita goes on spy missions and does security work for high-network individuals. She does adverts for itel’s Play Station copy RS4.

    @realjadrolita

    I finally rejected dollars 💵😂😂 let’s support the Nigeria Police Force 👮🏻‍♂️🫡. ft @EmmaLion @McFatkaze🤩🪴😂 #jadrolita #jarvis #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #viral #cruise

    ♬ original sound – Amadou Elizabeth

    As many TikTokers do, Jarvis also posts other kinds of content: dance videos with her friends, come-with-me videos, day-in-the-life videos, skits, collaborations. When she posts as Jadrolita, her followers call it AI content.

    A few months ago, she started collaborating with another TikTok user, Habeeb Hamzat, known as Peller. She joined one of his live streams, and they started talking.

    His content is sharply different from hers. In his videos, his braggadocio is palpable. Many times, he is dancing shirtless, starstruck by famous musicians who join his streams: Davido, Kizz Daniel, Tiwa Savage. When he met Olamide, he threw himself on the floor from excitement. When he hit 5 million followers, he wore a dress, lit a massive candle on baked garri and celebrated with his friends. He posted a video seeking a first-class graduate to be his personal assistant, partly trolling the idea that doing well at school guarantees success. That was his brand.

    In the videos Jarvis made with Peller, they remake love scenes from classic Nollywood movies. In some, Peller hypes her as he teaches her to dance. There are videos of him hugging her tight, holding her, trolling her, begging her to date him, trying to kiss her.

    How old is Peller and Jarvis?

    Jarvis, born June 15, 2002, is 22. Peller, born 10 May 2005, is slightly younger, at 19.

    In August, after he had started calling her baby and the internet had decided they were dating, a video of him dancing with another girl while she looked at her phone went viral. When he was done, he snatched her phone from her hand and asked her if she was crazy. “Am I your slave? Am I complaining?” she said, snatching her phone back from him.

    But as all of this happened, Jadrolita took a back seat. Critics have argued that Jarvis lost her way when she started hanging out with Peller. “One day, we will discuss how this lady reduced herself from a viral content creator who broke through a completely new and unique niche to a mere toy paraded by Peller up and down,” a user posted on X.

    “While their love story is complex, they are still young and figuring things out together, and that mutual understanding and happiness is what truly matters,” Chioma Anyanwu, the content creator AnChi Vibes, who is also Senior TikTok manager of the news aggregator Pulse, said. This year, she interviewed Peller and spoke to him about their relationship.

    As Peller and Jarvis have become an item, brands have rushed to them. Peller has promoted the new Alakada film coming out in December and many songs from upcoming musicians who he tagged. On TikTok, it is harder to know which content is sponsored or not, as the platform doesn’t incentivise creators to reveal this. But many TikTokers are paid to promote songs they use in dance videos. Both Peller and Jarvis posted about the new Kizz Daniel song “Marhaba,” but only Peller posted about the Alakada movie. Peller has 5.5 million followers. Jarvis has 3.4 million.

    @realjadrolita

    He asked peller if he could hold me 🤭 #jadrolita

    ♬ Marhaba – Kizz Daniel

    It is not uncommon for couples who are TikTokers to create content together. But Yinka Owate, who used to be very active on the platform but now works as a journalist with Okay Africa, said that for sustainable growth to happen, the content has to be the reason for engagement and not the relationship.

    “Right now, people are engaging with them, and brands are chasing them because they are the hot cake on TikTok at the moment,” Owate said. “I don’t know how long that will last. It is a ‘couple thing’ at the moment. It’s not a ‘content thing.’”

    Her observation is also similar to Anyanwu’s of the reason for their engagement. She said that the person who suffers if the relationship ends, many times is the one with the weaker individual brand. ⁠”I have seen couples come together to build relationships and grow, especially on TikTok. This fosters growth, mutual learning, and support but poses risks if the relationship falters, leaving the person without the stronger individual brand vulnerable,” she said.

    But Anyanwu added that reviving Jadrolita is a decision only Jarvis will make for herself. “If Jarvis feels the need to focus more on her personal brand, she should consider feedback, as she knows what’s best for her. Ultimately, other people’s opinions shouldn’t dictate her choices,” she said.

    In a BBC interview, Peller responded to backlash that Jarvis’s branding has changed since she started hanging out with him, saying that he is not “using Jarvis. We are not using each other.”

    Jarvis recently said that she stopped posting AI content because she has a tumour growing on her jawline.

    But in October, she made a video as Jadrolita. “It has come to my notice that you all are looking for me,” she said in the video. “I’m here. I’ve always been here. Just that my human self has been exploring so wild she forgot about me…I will be activating from now on. Are you ready for me? Because I am coming for all of you.”

    ALSO READ: 25 of the Most Ridiculous Videos on Nigerian TikTok Right Now

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  • For decades, The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries or just Lord’s Chosen has distinguished itself by its most ardent members, sporting reflective safety vests with, “THE ENEMIES SUBMITTED,” inscribed in all caps.

    Their viral testimonies — surviving armed robbers, escaping kidnappers, resurrecting from the dead twice, flying on lion’s back — of “The God of my Pastor Power” coming to the rescue after they declared “I am a chosen. Who are you?” have been a source of public fascination.

    For those with faith, they are perfect examples that God is real and capable of unthinkable miracles. For those without any faith, they are emblematic of the foolery that is modern Nigerian Pentecostalism, the bellwether of even more doom to come.

    But in the past few weeks, it is these paraphernalia that have made the church the trendiest soundtrack for everything, from makeup transition videos, food disappearing videos, and a myriad of skits from creators on TikTok. In one video, creator 1Lanky wrote, “You fit be chosen make your babe still choose me.”

    According to data from the Pew Research Centre in 2015, 50% of Nigerians claim to be Muslims, and 48.1% Christian. Only approximately 2% belong to other or no religious groups. How then did this ultra-religious society trade their reverence for God for laughs and giggles on TikTok in less than a decade?

    “There is something called viral marketing. Anything you post right now using ‘I am a Chosen,’ especially if you have the original audio in your content will trend,” Prince Abubakar, a digital marketing manager who works with brands looking to go global said. “If you want your content to go viral, part of the techniques available now is to key into the trend. On average, the result could be as high as a 50% increase in reach. People are desperate these days and anything that works, works.”

    Solape Adegbie, the head of social media at the content aggregator Pulse attributes the rise of the trend to the offline activities of members of the church for years. So when the videos began to trickle on social media, they were familiar.

    “Chosen as a religious body has created a lot of attention for itself, especially with the way they say ‘I am a chosen,’ three times. They are preaching when you take public transportation. They stop you on the road and their testimonies are always out of this world,” she said.

    She added that the nature of the production also plays a huge role in its virality. “The videos are short in a very natural way. They are not overly produced, and it’s almost as if the people recording them are sneaking to do it, which makes them more authentic,” she said.

    The days when Nigerians gathered to watch famous televangelists perform outlandish miracles on TV — an era when many of the creators who have jumped on the trend are too young to remember — are gone. In those days miracles were entertainment. Now a new generation unfamiliar with this scoff at the ridiculousness of the claims.

    “If you look at the demographic on TikTok, they are mostly young people. A lot of them are born in the 2000s and are not in tune with the time when miracles used to be a crazy thing,” Adegbie said.

    Coupled with documentaries and reports that expose corruption by religious leaders, the testimonies of these miracles could not stand a chance at a time of great distrust for the clergy. There has also been a recent debate on social media over defending God. This, Adegbie said, is one of the reasons Christians have not united against the creators who have jumped on the trend. “There is this whole thing of ‘You don’t need to defend God,’ happening on social media. But also the Chosens are doing it in a questionable way. Sometimes people exaggerate testimonies. Unfortunately, people lie,” she said.

    But it’s also, she added because clergies that have peaked on social media are not focused on performing miracles as the televangelists of the early aughts. “The kind of posts they make are centered on people, prosperity, and how to develop yourself. Many pastors are now being compared with motivational speakers.”

    Many brands move away from religion in their marketing strategies as it can be a divisive and controversial subject.  But in this case, Abubakar said that the debate around the chosen trend exists in safe waters, less about Christianity and more about individual belief in miracles. “The pushback has been more of people not taking their spiritual life seriously. It doesn’t trash the religion itself. Working with an influencer on the trend now, especially if they will make a collaborative post will be very good,” he said.

    Lazarus Muoka, the leader of Lord’s Chosen
    Lazarus Muoka (left), the leader of Lord’s Chosen

    For members of the church, the videos have not been received as the caricature that many of the influencers have intended. Lazarus Muoka the leader of the church has described them as the promise of God coming to pass.

    “Everywhere is chosen, chosen, chosen. I am so grateful that what I have been looking for, God gave it to us in a platter of gold,” he said during a recent sermon. “God is doing the publicity and we must give him the glory. They will know that we serve a living God.”

    ALSO READ HOW NIGERIANS DRAGGED THIS BRO TO BRO ALPHA MALE INFLUENCER

  • Two weeks ago, I watched a hilarious video that showed a group of Kenyan bridesmaids filing out of a room saying, “I’m not the bride” until the last person made her grand appearance and introduced herself as “the bride”.

    The video went viral on Nigerian social media as many people found it funny. What I didn’t see coming was a challenge that has now seen more than a thousand entries from Nigerian TikTok users.

    I’ve taken the pleasure to compile 17 of the most ridiculously hilarious “I’m not the bride” videos.

    I’m not the boyfriend

    Bombastic side-eye

    Not a dog bride

    @de_ouse

    I’m not the Bride Challenge 😂😂 who’s your favorite 🤷🏻‍♂️ #de_ouse #bridechallenge

    ♬ original sound – De_OUSE

    Layi gagged that man so bad

    @layiwasabi

    I think I have found my line of lawyering🤗

    ♬ original sound – Mr layi

    Yahoo boys made an entry

    So where’s the bride?

    Granny found love

    @iamdikeh

    Im not the blideeeee 🤣😂

    ♬ love nwantinti (ah ah ah) – CKay

    They let Yaba Left people participate?

    Justice for Android users

    @justt_chulo

    Sorry my man 😂😂😂💔💔 @zubby2f @Kandy golden @Yankee🥰💪🏻❤️ #fyp #trending #viral #goviral

    ♬ original sound – Just_Chulo😌📿

    “Na me be the thief”

    @mcfavourdo_

    😂😂😂 they caught him stealing and did this challenge 😂😂😂😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 #funnyvideos #funny #trending #fypシ #fyp #foryou @GossipMillNaija @KRAKS HEADQUARTERS @YabaLeftOnline Media @yabaleftonlinemedia @KraksTV

    ♬ original sound – Mc favourdo

    So many questions

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    Awwwww (I guess)

    When you actually deep it…

    @mayor.davis

    I’m not the bride! Money version 😛

    ♬ original sound – Mayowa David302

    This is cute

    @thedaradaniels

    can’t believe we got our 90 year old grandma to be a part of our tiktok 😂😭 #grandmaturns90 #thisvideobettergoviralorelse #capcut #thiswasfun

    ♬ original sound – Dara Daniels

    Who gave them the gowns?

    Delulu

    Is this the winner of this challenge?

    @mrmacaroni1

    I am not the blide 😂😂😂😂 #mrmacaroni1

    ♬ original sound – Mr Macaroni

    Burning Ram tickets are now available. Get your personal meat and many more at Zikoko’s meat festival coming up on November 11th. Tickets are available here.

    I’m Not the Bride