2020 was supposed to be the year Nigeria ended police brutality. But almost five years after the #EndSARS protests, young Nigerians are still being profiled and mistreated by the police, proving that the fight is far from over.
We asked four Nigerian men to recount the worst encounters they’ve had with Nigerian security agents, and their responses were sad and traumatic.
“They found hair in my bag, accused me of being a ritualist, and locked me up for five days”
Like 8 million other young Nigerians, Gbenro* (25) registered as a first-time voter in hopes of voting for his preferred candidate during the 2023 elections, but he ended up in jail before he could get the chance to exercise his civic rights.
“I was travelling from Lagos to Ogun state, where I registered for my Permanent Voters Card (PVC). Suddenly, we saw some policemen signalling to the driver to park. When he parked, the policemen said they wanted to search all the passengers, but they searched only the men in the car. I didn’t think much of it and just wanted to get it over with, so I cooperated with them and gave them my backpack. One of the officers took the bag from me and searched it. He found a nylon bag where I kept the hair from the haircut earlier in the day.”
“The officer had this weird look as he walked away for a few minutes to consult with his boss. They both returned and started questioning, asking me whose hair I was carrying. I told them that it was my hair from the barber appointment I had earlier in the day and that I had it with me because I always take my hair home to dispose of it myself. They said I was lying. Before I could defend myself, they started calling me a ritualist and swearing that they’d make an example out of me.”
“The next thing I knew, I was already locked up in a cell. They didn’t allow me to call my parents until it was late. The next day was supposed to be the election I travelled for. I had promised myself that I would vote for Peter Obi. I called my mom and told her I was locked up. She started crying because there was a curfew that was going to limit movement during the election, meaning that whether I liked it or not, I would stay in that cell for at least two nights. I stayed there for five days because they asked my mom to bring ₦250,000. I got out and found out that Tinubu won the election. I swore that I would never vote in this country again, and I’ve been trying to relocate since then.”
“They saw Google Play store reviews on my friend’s phone and called us Yahoo boys”
Micheal* (24) has had one too many experiences of police profiling, but the one that left him in the worst state of helplessness happened when he was just 17.
“A friend wanted a laptop, so he told me and some of my guys to follow him to Ilorin. It was supposed to be a quick trip, so instead of travelling in my friend’s car, we decided to take a cab to the park. We were already a few minutes away from Ilorin when some policemen stopped us. They asked their usual questions, but we knew they didn’t plan to let us go that easily after they asked us to pay our driver and ask him to leave. We were in the middle of nowhere, so we had no choice but to obey.
After the driver left, they asked for our phones and searched what we had on each of them. They took longer with my friend’s phone because he had a Samsung, which they didn’t think we were old enough to own.
They found nothing on our phones, so one of them, for whatever reason, decided to open the Google Play store on my friend’s phone. They somehow decided that the people leaving reviews from different parts of the world were our clients, and we were Yahoo boys. Imagine being held without your consent for such a stupid reason.
They asked us to pay ₦200,000, but we convinced them we only had ₦10,000. Then they drove us to Ogbomosho-Ilorin express road, which looked very creepy. We were in their truck with some other guys they picked up. I remember feeling like these people could decide to pull the trigger, and nobody would ever know. This experience started around noon, and the policemen didn’t leave us until 6 pm, and they still collected that ₦10,000 from us. I’ve been avoiding Ilorin since then.”
“They pointed a gun at my head.”
Not many teenagers spend their free time imagining they would ever be held at gunpoint, especially not a teenager like Nimi * (19), who just wanted to spend time with his big brother.
“I had just visited my older brother at his school, and I was returning home when some police operatives under the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) stopped the bus I was in. They told me and some of the other young men to come down and accused us of being Yahoo boys. Then they searched us, and even though they didn’t find anything to defend their claim, they pointed guns at our heads and forced us to call our parents.
I remember them telling my dad that I was a yahoo boy and they were going to shoot me. My dad negotiated with them, and they eventually agreed to let me go after he had paid some amount of money. I’m not sure how much he sent because he was too traumatized to talk about it. He ended up writing about it and publishing the story in a newspaper.”
“As someone with dreadlocks, I honestly hate to see the police checkpoints.”
Dreadlocks are fashion statements in many parts of the world, but in Nigeria, it’s the hairstyle that makes policemen single you out in a bus full of people – that’s exactly what happened to Ben* (23).
“It happened two years ago, just around the time I locked my hair for my dreads to set in. I boarded a bus in Aguda, and the moment I sighted a police checkpoint, I suspected they would stop me.
True to my suspicion, they flagged the bus and singled me out. I had a tote bag containing my laptop and other work essentials, so they saw it and demanded to search through it. I honestly don’t know what they were expecting to find, but after wasting my time close to five minutes, they finally let me go.
As someone with dreadlocks, I honestly hate to see the police checkpoints. They have this twisted idea that anyone who wears dreadlocks is either into cybercrime or walks around with drugs. Now, when I book a private cab, I always direct the drivers to go through routes where we stand zero to no chance of running into policemen.
What Can You Do If You’re a Victim of Police Brutality in Nigeria?
The Nigerian law is clear about many things, and police brutality is one of them. The police have no right to detain, assault, or extort you unlawfully. If you ever find yourself in a situation where officers abuse their power, here’s what you can do:
1. Know your rights: Sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian constitution guarantee your right to dignity and personal liberty. Police officers cannot harass, unlawfully detain, or torture you. Additionally, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 states that arrests must be legal (and violence-free), and suspects must be charged to court within 24–48 hours.
2. Ask for legal representation: If arrested, immediately request a lawyer and avoid saying anything till your lawyer arrives. The Legal Aid Council of Nigeria offers free legal assistance if you can’t afford one. You can call them on this number – +234 7031915990
3. Report the officers: File a complaint with the Police Complaint Response Unit (CRU) via Call/SMS/WhatsApp: 08057000001, Twitter: @PoliceNG_CRU, Email: complaint@npf.gov.ng
5. Use social media for awareness: If safe, document everything—photos, videos, names, and badge numbers—and share it with the public. You can also tag activists or organizations that work with victims of police brutality.
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Lagos, Nigeria – February 4, 2025 – Virgin Music Group announced today a new partnership with Rain Labs, a boutique distribution and integrated label services company founded in 2020, in Accra, Ghana. Rain Labs is dedicated to propelling African talent onto the global stage. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive support for African artists through digital distribution, marketing, creative production, and brand partnerships, ensuring that their music reaches global audiences and achieves lasting success.
Left to Right: Mercy Agbai, RainLabs; Barbara Debre, Virgin Music Group Nigeria; Motolani Alake, Virgin Music Group Nigeria; Olukorede ‘Kay’ Ikazoboh, Virgin Music Group Nigeria; Albert Donkor, RainLabs; Lindford Amankwaah, RainLabs; Michael Ashkar, RainLabs; Kwame Owusu Ansah, RainLabs.
Virgin Music Group, a global independent music distribution and services company, has a history of championing artists worldwide. With the establishment of Virgin Music Group Nigeria in 2023, the company expanded its commitment to the African music industry. Its services include global distribution, streaming strategy, marketing, and artist development, designed to elevate both emerging and established acts.
With offices in Accra and London, Rain Labs is committed to empowering independent and emerging African artists and enabling them to thrive. Its tailored services include digital distribution, PR, streaming strategy, and creative production. With its expertise in the African music landscape, the partnership with Virgin Music Group enhances Rain Labs’ ability to reach over 128 digital streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, YouTube Music, and Audiomack.
Rain Labs’ roster includes Joey B, Cina Soul, Baaba J, MAUIMØON, Kofee Bean, Ess the Legend, and AD DJ, all of whom will benefit from Virgin Music’s global network. Together, the partnership aims to deliver impactful campaigns and sustainable pathways for artists to reach their full potential.
Albert Donkor, the co-founder and lead of Rain Labs, expressed his enthusiasm: “This partnership marks an exciting chapter for African music. Virgin Music Group’s proven track record and global reach align perfectly with our mission at Rain Labs. We trust this is the right time to elevate African talent to new heights and are eager to see the impact this collaboration will bring.”
Olukorede ‘Kay’ Ikazoboh, Managing Director of Virgin Music Nigeria, shared her perspective: “Rain Labs is a well-established entity with a deep understanding of Africa’s music landscape. At Virgin Music Group, we are proud to collaborate with a company of this calibre. Together, we aim to harness Rain Labs’ full potential and continue to develop innovative pathways for African artists to shine globally.”
Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and the streets will soon be flooded with sickening displays of love —oversized teddy bears, annoying flower bouquets, and couples taking up all the good restaurant reservations. If you’re single, you have two options: wallow in self-pity or take matters into your own hands and reclaim the day. We vote for chaos.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to pulling off a successful Valentine’s Day heist and getting away with it.
1. Hijack a Valentine’s Day delivery
The streets of Lagos are about to be filled with dispatch riders carrying everything from designer perfumes to trays of Shawarma & Red Velvet cake combos. Do you see where I’m going with this?
How to execute:
Find a busy junction where delivery bikes tend to stop — maybe they’re checking their Google Maps, or maybe they’re stuck in traffic. Approach the rider and say, “Oh, you’re from XYZ Logistics? Are you the one delivering Sandra’s package?”
The key is confidence. If he hesitates, throw in, “She said I should help her collect it. She’s inside the restaurant already.” Take the package, walk away like you own the street, and enjoy whatever Sandra’s loving boyfriend bought for her.
Risk level: 8/10. Nigerian delivery riders don’t joke with their jobs. If he suspects foul play, he may chase you down with the speed of an angry NURTW roadman.
2. Crash a romantic picnic
Valentine’s Day is the one-time couples forget about security. Love has entered their eyes, and they’re too busy staring into each other’s souls to notice a stranger casually stealing their extra cupcakes.
How to execute:
Wear your best “I belong here” outfit. Casually stroll into a park where lovebirds are picnicking. Pretend you’re looking for your “friend.” Spot a picnic setup that looks promising. Slowly migrate towards it, nodding and smiling like you belong.
At the right moment, strike up a conversation. “Hey, are you guys here for Chidera’s thing too?” No one wants to admit they don’t know who Chidera is. Before they realise, you’re already on the blanket, eating strawberries and sipping Chapman.
Risk level: 6/10. If they suspect you’re an intruder, you may need an emergency fake phone call and a dramatic exit.
3. Take advantage of a wrong number
People text the wrong numbers all the time, and on Valentine’s Day, the chances triple. Someone, somewhere, is texting the wrong person: “Hey baby, meet me at 7 p.m.”
How to execute:
If you get a wrong text, PLAY ALONG. Respond with, “Babe, I’ve missed you too! Where are we meeting again?” Once they confirm the location, show up looking your best. If it’s a restaurant, arrive first and say, “He’s on his way, but he said I should order for both of us.” Eat, drink, and disappear before the real “babe” arrives.
Risk level: 9/10. If you get caught, be ready to perform “I just arrived” convincingly.
4. “Borrow” flowers from a romantic setup
Restaurants and lounges will be decorated with roses, balloons, and cute little love notes. Who said these are just for couples?
How to execute:
Walk in like you own the place, admire the setup, and casually pick a bouquet when no one is looking. Make sure you get the f*ck outta there and don’t look back even if a thousand voices call out to you. Boom! You got yourself an instant Valentine’s Day gift.
Risk level: 7/10. If you get caught, just say “ “Oh, I thought these were complimentary,” and you might walk away unscathed.
5. Fake a Valentine’s Day giveaway win
Brands love Valentine’s Day giveaways and the one thing they hate? Bad PR.
How to execute:
Find a giveaway post that’s picking winners manually (not a random generator). DM the brand with something dramatic but polite.
“Hey, I saw I wasn’t picked, but this giveaway meant so much to me. Valentine’s is really tough this year, and I was hoping for even the smallest joy.”
Most brands would rather give you something small than be accused of dishonesty. Even if it’s just a discount code, it’s still a win.
Risk level: 3/10. The worst thing that can happen is being ignored.
6. Hijack corporate Valentine hampers
Offices love sending out Valentine’s hampers, but let’s be real—not all of them will reach the intended recipient.
How to execute:
Befriend your office receptionist and be on the lookout for unclaimed gifts. If your name is remotely close to the recipient’s, congratulations—you just got a mystery admirer.
Risk level: 5/10. If your bosses find out, your February salary might be a couple thousand short.
Popular media and culture are saturated with images of heterosexual, monogamous relationships as the ideal set-up for “true romance”, especially around Valentine’s Day. But love exists in many forms, and unconventional relationship structures navigate the love holiday in unique ways.
Curious, Zikoko sat with six non-monogamous Nigerians to explore how they celebrate Valentine’s, their past experiences, and what the day means to them.
Navigating love beyond monogamy
For those in non-monogamous relationships, Valentine’s Day can be a delicate balancing act of time, attention, and resources. Some find ways to celebrate each partner individually, while others embrace group activities or choose to celebrate on different days.
Here’s how six Nigerians in non-monogamous relationships approach the holiday of love.
“I can’t spend Valentine’s Day with multiple people” — Tomi*(23)
I had my first Valentine’s experience in a polyamorous relationship, and it taught me some hard lessons. First, I can’t spend Valentine’s Day with multiple people. I like to treat each of my partners as specially as possible (and within my budget), so trying to schedule multiple dates on the same day isn’t ideal for me.
I prefer to designate time between my partners to make sure I spend quality time with each of them because that’s one of my primary love languages.
I love Valentine’s Day because I’m a romantic, and it allows me to do things that will appeal to each of my partners specifically. This year, I have one partner and I’m making her a scrapbook of some of our favourite memories since we’ve been together.
My favourite part about Valentine’s is that I get to do something special and romantic for my partner. My least favourite thing about the holiday is the cost — doing something cute for the person you love can really drain your account, but it’s worth it.
“If you choose to spend Valentine’s Day with one person, it may seem like you’re placing that partner above your other partners”— Junior*(27)
Personally, Valentine’s Day is always chaotic. I wouldn’t say I have traditions, but sometimes I plan multiple dates with different time slots on that day, which is mostly impractical. Other times, I just spend it alone since scheduling can be tricky, and sometimes, I plan stuff for other days because everyone can be busy on Valentine’s Day.
My favourite part about Valentine’s is that there’s more love to celebrate. My least favourite bit is that it depends on how you choose to spend the day. If you spend it alone, you’re good. But if you choose to spend it with one person, it may seem like you’re placing that partner above any other person you’re sharing your love with, and that just leads to wahala.
“It’s my dream to make more money so I can totally bankroll my wives and all their desires.” — Mila*(24)
Valentine’s Day is looking like plenty debit alerts, kai. I have three partners, and between curating gift boxes and the exchange rate, I’m leaking money everywhere. I show love with gift giving, so it’s very important to me that I come correct when I send gifts. It’s my dream to make more money so I can totally bankroll my wives and all their desires.
“I’m currently writing each of my friends a heartfelt love letter, which they will receive on Valentine’s Day.” — Tiolu*(25)
I’m aroace, non-monogamous and single this Valentine’s. So I don’t have much planned, but I’m currently writing each of my friends a heartfelt love letter, which they will receive on Valentine’s Day. I’m also considering a physical celebration with my friends — the possibilities are endless.
“This year because the economy is not smiling, we’re doing a weekend staycation at my apartment.” — Yemisi* (27)
I don’t really care for Valentine’s Day, but one of my partners really loves it, so I try to go the extra mile. This year, because the economy is not smiling, we’re doing a weekend staycation at my apartment. We’re going to watch all his favourite shows and play games and cuddle. Then next week I’ll go on a nice dinner date with my other partner just to keep things balanced.
My favourite thing about Valentine’s is that everyone is so lovey-dovey — it’s adorable. My least favourite thing, though, is that the social media pressure can be a bit stifling.
Do you want to plan a romantic Valentine’s dinner experience for ₦100,000 and under? We’ve got a list of options for you in Lagos and Abuja to check out.
Young, Famous & African is Netflix’s first African reality series, offering an exclusive look into the lives of some of the continent’s most famous and influential celebrities. The show blends luxury, fame, and drama as a group of high-profile African stars navigate friendships, rivalries, and romance — all under the glare of the spotlight.
Season 3 has shaken things up with new cast members, surprise exits, and explosive storylines that have left fans talking. Some familiar faces have returned, while others have stepped away, making this season one of the most unpredictable yet.
Curious about who’s still in the game, who’s made their exit, and what drama is unfolding onscreen? This guide has everything you need to know about the Young, Famous & African cast — your ultimate breakdown of the stars, scandals, and what’s coming next.
Full Name: Naseeb Abdul Juma Issack Age: 35 (born October 2, 1989) Country: Tanzania Why He’s Famous: Diamond Platnumz is one of Africa’s biggest music stars, known for his hit songs, high-energy performances, and influence in the Afropop and Bongo Flava scene. He is the founder of Wasafi Classic Baby (WCB), a major label in East Africa.
Background
Diamond rose to fame in the early 2010s with his breakout song “Kamwambie” and has since dominated the African music industry. He has collaborated with global artists like Davido, Ne-Yo, and Rick Ross, solidifying his international reach. Beyond music, he’s known for his extravagant lifestyle, multiple business ventures, and high-profile relationships.
Major Storylines
Season 1: His complicated relationship with Zari Hassan, the mother of two of his children, was a major plotline. Their unresolved feelings and Zari’s tension with his new love interests kept fans engaged. Season 2: His flirtation and romance with Fantana became one of the season’s biggest talking points. This led to tension between Fantana and Zari, as the two women clashed over Diamond’s affections. Season 3: Diamond continued flirting with Fantana, fueling ongoing tension with Zari. His romantic entanglements remained central to the drama, as his interactions with both women stirred emotions and rivalries within the group.
Full Name: Annie Macaulay-Idibia Age: 40 (born November 13, 1984) Country: Nigeria Why She’s Famous: Annie is an actress, model, and businesswoman best known for her roles in Nollywood and her high-profile marriage to legendary Nigerian musician 2Baba (Innocent Idibia).
Background
Annie started her career as a model before transitioning into acting. She gained recognition in Nollywood for her role in Pleasure and Crime and later became a household name with appearances in several Nigerian films.
Her relationship with 2Baba has kept her in the public eye, as the couple’s love story has been both celebrated and controversial due to his past relationships and multiple children from other women.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Annie’s storyline was dominated by her emotional struggles with 2Baba’s past infidelities and the presence of his other children. She opened up about the pain she endured in their marriage, which led to some tense moments with the cast. Season 2: Annie’s close friendship with Swanky Jerry took a dramatic turn when he accused her of speaking negatively about him on a call — without realizing he was listening in. This betrayal led to one of the season’s most unexpected fallouts, leaving their friendship strained. Season 3: The unresolved tension between Annie and Swanky resurfaced as they revisited the Season 2 phone call drama, making it clear that their friendship was still on shaky ground. Annie also clashed with Zari Hassan at Zari’s wedding, criticizing her for marrying a much younger man, Shakib. This comment sparked backlash, adding another layer to the season’s drama.
Full Name: Zarinah Hassan Age: 44 (born September 23, 1980) Country: Uganda Why She’s Famous: Zari, known as “The Boss Lady,” is a Ugandan socialite, musician, and businesswoman. She gained prominence through her entrepreneurial ventures, music career, and high-profile relationships, particularly with Tanzanian musician Diamond Platnumz.
Background
Born in Jinja, Uganda, Zari pursued a diploma in cosmetology in London before returning to Uganda in 2004. She later moved to South Africa, where she co-founded Brooklyn City College with her late husband, Ivan Semwanga. The college has its headquarters in Pretoria and several satellite campuses across South Africa.
Zari has released several singles, including “0liwange,” but her music career didn’t go far. She has been a prominent figure in East African entertainment. Her personal life, including her relationships and family dynamics, has kept her in the public eye.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Zari’s arrival stirred emotions, especially with her ex-partner, Diamond Platnumz, being part of the cast. Their past relationship and co-parenting dynamics were central themes. Season 2: Zari found herself in a love triangle involving Diamond and Andile Ncube. Andile’s interest in Zari led to tensions, especially given his friendship with Diamond. Season 3: Zari introduced her new partner, Shakib Lutaaya, who is 32, to the group, leading to scrutiny about their age difference — especially from Annie Macaulay-Idibia, who commented that Shakib was too young for her. Additionally, Zari had a heated clash with Kefilwe Mabote, accusing her of staging a fake marriage just for social media content.
Full Name: Nadia Nakai Kandava Age: 34 (born May 18, 1990) Country: South Africa Why She’s Famous: Nadia Nakai first gained recognition on the e.tv hip-hop show, Shiz Niz, where she became the first female to win the Mixtape 101 competition. She rose to prominence in 2013 with her debut single, “Like Me,” followed by collaborations with top South African rappers, including Riky Rick (“Amantombazane” Remix) and Cassper Nyovest (“The Man, Naaa Meaan”).
Background
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nadia Nakai was raised by her Zimbabwean mother and South African father. Her 2019 debut album, Nadia Naked, solidified her as a major force in African hip-hop. The album’s success led to a documentary on Showmax and a deal with Def Jam Africa in 2020. She has also received multiple accolades, including the ‘Best Female Artist’ award at AFRIMA and a ‘Most Stylish Performing Artist’ award at the SA Style Awards.
Beyond music, Nadia has built a TV career, co-hosting Yo! MTV Raps South Africa and Gen-Z South Africa on Channel O.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Nadia’s presence brought a fresh perspective to the show, with her focus on her career and personal life. Nadia’s interactions with other cast members, especially Zari Hassan, started to shape the group dynamics. Season 2: Nadia’s relationship with the late South African rapper, AKA took center stage, adding emotional depth to her storyline. Her interactions with the other cast members, including Zari, continued to build as she grew more comfortable with her place in the group. Season 3: Nadia’s storyline became more emotional after the passing of AKA. Her grief was heavily featured in the season, highlighting her vulnerability and personal strength. She also had a huge fight with Annie, accusing her of being awful to other people in the group and claiming to be the victim.
Full Name: Jeremiah Ogbodo Age: 33 (born July 4, 1990) Country: Nigeria Why He’s Famous: Swanky Jerry is a Nigerian celebrity stylist. He has styled numerous celebrities and gained fame for his bold, eye-catching looks.
Background
Born in Nigeria, Swanky Jerry has become one of Africa’s top celebrity stylists. He works with high-profile personalities in music, film, and television and has gained a large following both online and offline.
Swanky Jerry’s personal life, including his appearances on Young, Famous & African, has kept him in the spotlight. He is known for his extravagant lifestyle, love for fashion, and his sometimes complicated relationships with the other cast members.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Swanky Jerry was introduced as a stylish and well-connected individual, known for his unique approach to fashion and lifestyle. He had a close friendship with Khanyi Mbau, and the season explored their deep bond and shared experiences in the entertainment industry. Season 2: Swanky continued to play a prominent role, but tensions arose between him and Annie Macaulay-Idibia after she accused him of speaking negatively about her behind her back. The fallout created an ongoing conflict between the two, becoming one of the season’s central storylines. Season 3: Swanky returned for Season 3, and his continued conflict with Annie was a focal point, especially as they revisited their issues from Season 2. His friendships with other cast members, like Fantana and Nadia, were central to his storyline, but he remained a figure who added both flair and drama to the show.
Full Name: Quinton Masina Age: 44 (born August 13, 1980) Country: South Africa Why He’s Famous: Naked DJ is a South African radio personality and DJ known for his presence in the South African entertainment scene. He is famous for his work on various radio stations and his role as a DJ in the music industry.
Background
Naked DJ was born in South Africa and has worked across several radio stations, building a loyal following with his charismatic personality and love for music. He is known for his ability to connect with listeners and for hosting major events across the country.
His role on Young, Famous & African introduced viewers to his personal life, including his relationships with Kayleigh Schwark. He is often seen as a calm presence amid the drama but has his moments of intensity, especially when dealing with complicated dynamics.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Naked DJ was introduced as a charming, level-headed DJ who provided a balance to the drama surrounding other cast members. His storylines mostly centred on his career and romantic life with Kayleigh Schwark. Season 2: Naked DJ continued to be a stabilizing presence in the group, but his relationships with other cast members like Diamond Platnumz and Swanky Jerry began to be explored more. He was seen trying to avoid the drama while maintaining his career. Season 3: Naked DJ remained a part of the group, staying out of most of the conflicts, but he faced pressure from the other cast to propose to Kayleigh, his longtime girlfriend. He had been married before and didn’t want to do it again. However, after the show, he announced their engagement on Instagram.
Full Name: Kayleigh Schwark Age: 32 (born December 4, 1992) Country: South Africa Why She’s Famous: Kayleigh Schwark is a South African influencer known for her lifestyle and fitness content. She is best known for her role on Young, Famous & African, where she became a fan favourite as Naked DJ’s girlfriend.
Background
Kayleigh Schwark is originally from South Africa and has worked in various sectors, including fashion, business, and social media. She gained popularity as a content creator and influencer and is known as a reality show star.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Kayleigh was introduced as a relatively calm and positive presence in the group. She quickly became a fan favourite for her kind nature and straightforward approach to life. Her storyline is mainly focused on her relationship with Naked DJ. Season 2: Kayleigh remained a stabilizing force within the group, often staying out of the drama and offering advice to others. Her friendships with Zari and Nadia were highlighted, and her balanced approach to life stood out. Season 3: Kayleigh remained a key part of the group, offering a more grounded perspective. Her friendships continued to grow, but she stayed mostly away from the conflict, calming the group. This season, she spoke a lot about her relationship with Naked DJ to the women and threatened to leave him.
Full Name: Khanyisile Mbau Age: 40 (born October 15, 1984) Country: South Africa Why She’s Famous: Khanyi Mbau is a South African actress, television personality, socialite, and entrepreneur known for her glamorous lifestyle, and controversial public persona. She has been a staple in South African entertainment, making her mark in the TV and film industry, as well as becoming a widely recognised social media influencer.
Background
Khanyi Mbau was born and raised in South Africa. She rose to fame in the mid-2000s with her acting roles in South African soap operas, such as Muvhango, and later became a sought-after personality for reality TV shows and brand endorsements.
Known for her bold fashion choices, luxury lifestyle, and sometimes controversial opinions, Khanyi has captivated both fans and critics alike.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Khanyi Mbau’s arrival in Young, Famous & African immediately made waves. Her vibrant personality and unapologetic confidence were a central feature of the show. She had a rocky dynamic with some of the other cast members, particularly Zari Hassan. Season 2: Khanyi returned for Season 2, continuing to add her unapologetically bold presence to the show. However, tensions began to rise, especially with Diamond Platnumz and Zari Hassan. When Bonang Matheba joined the cast, she said she didn’t trust her. Season 3: Khanyi’s presence in Season 3 was limited, as she appeared as a guest in a few scenes. Despite her reduced screen time, her legacy from earlier seasons continued to echo in the group dynamic, and her absence was felt.
Full Name: Innocent Ujah Idibia Age: 49 (born September 18, 1975) Country: Nigeria Why He’s Famous: 2Baba, formerly known as 2Face Idibia, is a Nigerian music legend and one of Africa’s most iconic musicians. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Afrobeat artists of all time and is known for hit songs like “African Queen,” “Amaka,” and “Only Me.” Beyond music, 2Baba is also a well-known public figure and philanthropist.
Background
2Baba began his career as part of the Nigerian music group, Plantashun Boiz, which was hugely successful in the early 2000s. He went on to have an immensely successful solo career, winning multiple awards, including an MTV Africa Music Award and a BET Award. His influence extends beyond music, as he is involved in various charity and advocacy work.
He has maintained a highly publicized personal life, especially his relationships, including his long-time marriage to Nigerian actress Annie Macaulay-Idibia.
Major Storylines
Season 1: 2Baba first appeared as a recurring character, giving viewers a glimpse into his relationship with Annie Macaulay-Idibia. Though his presence wasn’t as dominant, his support for Annie was evident. Season 2: 2Baba was more involved this season, especially as he and Annie renewed their wedding vows. This emotional moment was a key part of their storyline. However, 2Baba became embroiled in drama when he clashed with Nadia Nakai. Nadia was upset after 2Baba made a comment about men being able to cheat if they wanted to, which sparked a heated exchange between them. Season 3: 2Baba briefly appeared as a guest this season, once on a video call with Annie. His role was largely passive.
Cast Members Introduced in Season 2 (Returned for Season 3)
Full Name: Francine Koffie Age: 27 (born July 3, 1997) Country: Ghana Why She’s Famous: Fantana is a Ghanaian singer and television personality known for her appearance on Young, Famous & African.
Background
Fantana was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, and has roots in Ghana. She started her music career in 2019 with her single “So What.” In addition to her music career, Fantana’s personal life has kept her in the public eye, with her candid conversations about her relationships, especially with Diamond Platnumz, taking centre stage on the show.
Major Storylines
Season 2: Fantana joined the cast in Season 2, where her flirtation with Diamond Platnumz became a central storyline. Her attraction to Diamond led to tension with his baby mama, Zari Hassan, creating an ongoing conflict throughout the season. Season 3: Fantana returned for Season 3, and her storyline continued to revolve around her dynamic with Diamond. Despite their flirtations, Fantana was caught in the crossfire of Zari’s tension with her, leading to several dramatic moments.
Full Name: Luis Tshita Munana Age: 33 (born July 23, 1991) Country: Namibia Why He’s Famous: Luis Munana is a Namibian designer, model and television personality who gained fame for his appearance on Big Brother Africa. He is the founder of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week.
Background
Luis was born in Namibia and started his career as a model in the entertainment industry. He is estranged from his devout Christian family after a clip of him having sex in the Big Brother house went viral.
Major Storylines
Season 2: Luis Munana joined the cast in Season 2, where his charm and good looks immediately made him a notable figure in the group. His role was relatively lowkey, as he avoided much of the drama but had a noticeable flirtation with some of the women, especially Fantana. Season 3: Luis returned for Season 3. A major conflict arose when Luis asked Ini Edo to help him select a surrogate for his baby, which angered her. Ini Edo, who had her daughter through surrogacy, was upset by the request, feeling that Luis was parading women to decide who was worthy to be his surrogate. This disagreement led to a major fight between Luis, Ini Edo, and Swanky Jerry, adding a dramatic moment to the season.
Full Name: Shakib Lutaaya Chum Age: 32 (born in 1992) Country: Uganda Why He’s Famous: Shakib Lutaaya is a Ugandan boxer who gained attention after being introduced as Zari Hassan’s husband on Young, Famous & African. His relationship with Zari, marked by an age difference and public scrutiny, became a focal point of the season.
Background
Shakib is a boxer, but little is known about his professional ventures outside of his relationship with Zari. He became a subject of media interest due to their public relationship, particularly when they faced criticisms surrounding their significant age gap. Shakib has since continued to maintain a relatively private life away from the limelight, though his role on Young, Famous & African has boosted his public recognition.
Major Storylines
Season 3: Shakib was introduced as Zari Hassan’s husband. Their relationship became a point of contention, especially with Annie Macaulay-Idibia, who openly commented that Shakib was too young for Zari. This created tension within the group, adding drama to the season. Despite the scrutiny, Shakib’s relationship with Zari remained strong, and his presence on the show remained mostly calm.
Full Name: Iniobong Edo Ekim Age: 42 (born April 23, 1982) Country: Nigeria Why She’s Famous: Ini Edo is a renowned Nigerian actress and film producer, recognized as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures. With a career spanning over two decades, she has captivated audiences with her performances in a wide variety of Nollywood films. Ini Edo also has a strong presence on social media, where she shares insights into her lifestyle, career, and personal life.
Background
Ini Edo’s career began in Nollywood in the early 2000s, and she quickly rose to prominence due to her dramatic chops. She has since built a significant filmography, with roles in over 100 films. In addition to acting, Ini Edo is also a film producer and brand ambassador for various companies.
Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.
Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.Ini Edo’s personal life has garnered public attention, particularly her marriage and divorce. However, her professional success has kept her in the public eye as a powerful and influential figure in African entertainment.Background
Major Storylines
Season 3: Ini Edo joined the cast in Season 3, and her interactions with Luis Munana and Swanky Jerry were pivotal to the drama. She became involved in a major conflict with Luis after he asked her to help him select a surrogate for his baby. Ini Edo, who had used a surrogate to have her daughter, was offended by the request and accused Luis of parading women to decide who would be his surrogate. This sparked a heated argument and tension with the other cast members.
Full Name: Kefilwe Mabote Age: 35 (born April 10, 1989) Country: South Africa Why She’s Famous: Kefilwe Mabote is a South African luxury influencer, fashionista, and businesswoman. She is known for her luxurious lifestyle, high-end fashion choices, and massive following on social media platforms.
Background
Kefilwe Mabote rose to fame primarily through her social media presence, where she built an enormous following. As a fashion and beauty influencer, Kefilwe has collaborated with top brands and featured in various media outlets. In addition to her work as an influencer, she is a businesswoman, with her own ventures in fashion and cosmetics.
Kefilwe’s rise to fame came through her online presence and her ability to market herself as a luxury lifestyle influencer.
Major Storylines
Season 3: Kefilwe was introduced in Season 3, where she became embroiled in a heated confrontation with Zari Hassan. Zari accused Kefilwe of staging a fake marriage for social media content, which led to a dramatic clash between the two.
Full Name: Bonang Dorothy Matheba Age: 37 (born June 25, 1987) Country: South Africa Seasons Appeared In: Season 2 Why She’s Famous: Bonang Matheba is a South African TV presenter, radio host, businesswoman, and fashion entrepreneur. She is celebrated for her glamorous lifestyle, significant presence in the entertainment industry, and business ventures, which include her own line of champagne and clothing.
Background
Bonang’s career began in television in the early 2000s, and she quickly rose to fame for her hosting skills on shows such as Top Billing and The Front Row. Her radiance and charisma led her to other major media projects, including radio shows, and she became known as one of South Africa’s most influential celebrities.
Bonang has expanded her brand into various sectors, notably as a businesswoman, and has accumulated a large following on social media.
Major Storylines
Season 2: Bonang Matheba was introduced in Season 2. She became involved in a heated conflict with Luis Munana over an event that he invited her to in Namibia. Bonang accused Luis of mistreating her at the event and claimed he had lied about her online.
Why She Left
Bonang left the show before the second season was over. Swanky Jerry, who had introduced her to the group, said that she told him she felt attacked and ganged up on by the group. Khanyi said that she was surprised by Bonang’s decision to come on the show, calling it “not her style.” There was also tension between Bonag and Nadia who used to be friends, but have long had a fall out.
Full Name: Andile Ncube Age: 43 (born October 4, 1981) Country: South Africa Seasons Appeared In: Seasons 1 and 2 Why He’s Famous: Andile Ncube is a South African television and radio presenter. He gained popularity through his work as a host on various TV shows, including the South African version of Big Brother Africa and The Real Goboza.
Background
Andile Ncube’s career began in the early 2000s, when he transitioned from being a footballer to a television personality. He made a name for himself as a charismatic host on several South African shows. Beyond television, Andile has built a solid career as a businessman, having established multiple ventures in entertainment and media. His fame is also boosted by his high-profile relationships and his significant social media following.
Major Storylines
Season 1: Andile Ncube was part of the original cast in Season 1, where he showed off his interview chops, mostly asking the cast personal questions about their private lives. Season 2: In Season 2, Andile continued his interviews, asking Nadia why she fell out with Bonang on the show. He also interviewed Annie, where she spoke about her marriage with 2Baba.
Why He Left
Andile Ncube’s exit from Young, Famous & African after Season 2 was largely attributed to him not returning as a main cast member for Season 3. The show did not offer a clear public statement about his departure.
Cast Breakdown by Country
South Africa
Khanyi Mbau
Naked DJ
Kayleigh Schwark
Bonang Matheba
Kefilwe Mabote
Andile Ncube
Nadia Nakai
Nigeria
Annie Macaulay-Idibia
2Baba
Ini Edo
Swanky Jerry
Tanzania
Diamond Platnumz
Uganda
Zari Hassan
Shakib Lutaaya
Ghana
Fantana
Namibia
Luis Munana
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is the most famous person on Young, Famous & African?
The most famous cast member depends on social media influence, industry success, and regional popularity. Some of the biggest names include:
Ini Edo – A veteran Nigerian actress 2Baba – A legendary Nigerian musician with decades of success in the industry. Diamond Platnumz – One of Africa’s biggest musicians, with a massive following in East Africa and beyond. Bonang Matheba – A media personality and businesswoman with a strong fanbase in South Africa. Zari Hassan – A Ugandan socialite and entrepreneur known across Africa. Khanyi Mbau – A South African actress and television personality.
2. Who has the most Instagram followers?
As of February 2025, the top cast members by Instagram followers are:
Diamond Platnumz – 18.1 million Ini Edo – 14.2 million Zari Hassan – 12.3 million 2Baba – 8 million Annie Macaulay-Idibia – 7.9 million
Follower counts may change over time.
3. Is Young, Famous & African scripted?
Like many reality TV shows, Young, Famous & African is not fully scripted but is likely structured for dramatic effect. Cast members are real people, but producers may influence storylines, conversations, and conflicts to keep things engaging.
4. How much do cast members get paid?
Netflix has not disclosed salaries, but considering how famous the cast is, they likely could be one of the highest paid casts of any reality show on the continent.
5. Which country has the most cast members?
South Africa with 8.
6. Who is the youngest person on Young, Famous & African?
Fantana: 27 (born July 3, 1997)
7. When does Young, Famous & African return?
Young, Famous & African is currently in production, with season 4 anticipated to be released around June 2026.
Valentine’s Day means different things at different stages of life. At one point, it was secret love notes and butterflies. Then it became grand romantic gestures and expensive dinner dates. And now? For some, it’s just another day. For others, it has evolved into something even bigger.
We spoke to seven Nigerians about how their Valentine’s Day celebrations have changed over the years — some for better, some for worse.
“It used to be about love; now, it’s just vibes”
In secondary school, *Chiamaka, 29, remembers the butterflies-in-my-tummy thrill of getting a Valentine’s gift for the first time from an anonymous crush. It wasn’t much — just a handwritten card and a chocolate bar — but the mystery of who sent it kept her smiling for weeks.
“My best friend’s boyfriend got her a massive teddy bear, and I was so jealous,” she recounts. “Then, just before lunch break, I found a handwritten card and a bar of chocolate in my bag. I still don’t know who put it there, but I held onto that card for months, imagining it was from my crush.”
By university, Valentine’s became a bigger affair. Fancy dates, Instagram-worthy moments, and carefully curated surprises became the norm. For her, it was less about love and more about making sure you were in a relationship that looked good online. “The pressure was insane in UNILAG,” she says. “If the gift didn’t have that wow factor, it was best to keep it hidden.”
Now? Single and struggling to survive Jagaban’s daily shege, she barely remembers the day unless she sees other people posting. If no one sends her a “Happy Valentine’s” text, she just moves on like it’s any other day.
“My husband used to go all out. Now, it’s just gifts”
*Tolu, 31, from Lagos, still vividly remembers how her husband — back when he was just her boyfriend — used to set the bar high.
“One year, he set up a candlelit dinner in his tiny self-contained apartment, handwrote a love letter, and cooked different meals for me,” she shares. “Another time, he planned a surprise picnic with all our favourite songs playing in the background.”
Now that they’re married, she still gets gifts, but the grand romantic gestures have trickled to a halt. “There’s hardly time for handwritten notes, carefully planned dates — just a wrapped present and a casual ‘Happy Valentine’s, babe’, and we keep it moving.”
She once asked him why he doesn’t do anything extra anymore, and he laughed, saying, “Babe, we’re already married. Every day is Valentine’s Day.”
Tolu doesn’t argue. She loves her husband, but sometimes, she misses the old him.
“From partying with the LOML to staying home”
*David, 32, from Lagos, used to throw Valentine’s parties with his boyfriend and their friends. Whether they were in relationships or not, it was always a night filled with drinks, loud music, and lots of flirting.
“My first Valentine with a partner was in 2019. We attended this underground queer party in Ilupeju, and it was honestly the best night. We spent 2021 and 2022 Valentine’s Day in the same place, but my BF relocated in 2023,” he shares.
Now? Valentine’s is still spent with his boyfriend, but mostly quiet. “The year he travelled, we didn’t even speak on Valentine’s Day because he was tied up with school and other stuff. Last year, we watched a movie together remotely, and he sent me money. This year? I don’t know what the plans are yet. The celebration never feels the same with a thousand miles between us.”
Does he miss the wild celebrations? Sometimes. But he’s also glad he doesn’t have to argue over splitting bills with his friends anymore.
“I proposed on Valentine’s Day. Now, it’s our anniversary and her baby shower”
*Ayo, 35, an Ibadan-based entrepreneur, never expected Valentine’s Day to become the most significant day of his life. He had planned the proposal in 2019 for weeks, making sure it wasn’t just a cliché dinner date. He got their families involved, booked a rooftop venue, and made sure it was a day his girlfriend (now wife) would never forget.
A year later, they got married on the same day. Now, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance — it’s their wedding anniversary. This year, it’s even bigger. His wife’s baby shower is happening on the same day.
“While people are planning dinner dates, I’m planning an anniversary dinner and a baby shower at the same time,” the expecting dad shares. “Valentine’s Day has always been a double celebration for me, and honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Don’t know what to gift the absolute LOYL this Valentine’s ? We’ve got the best Valentine’s Day gifting guide at the end of this article.
“Didn’t care then, don’t care now”
Some things change over time. But for *Ibrahim, 27, his feelings toward Valentine’s Day have remained the same.
Back in secondary school, he never got anything while the other boys in his class showed off the gifts their crushes had given them. “Cute notes, chocolate bars, perfumes…nothing ever came to me,” he recounts. “I was that one guy in class that no one was attracted to and I took it like that.”
By the time he got into a relationship later in university, his girlfriend was the one reminding him to plan something and make the day special. “My argument was always how I spoilt her with gifts on other random days, and why it shouldn’t mean anything if we spent the entire Valentine’s Day sleeping inside the house,” he shares. Plus, as a Muslim, he didn’t think he should be participating in the celebration anyway.
Now that he’s single again? Back to being unbothered.
“My wife used to cry if I didn’t plan something. Now, she just wants a break”
For *Dele, 28, from Ibadan, Valentine’s Day used to be a high-pressure event. His wife, back when they were dating in university, expected thoughtful gifts, flowers, surprises — and if he forgot? She would get emotional about it.
“My wife? She doesn’t joke with special celebrations. Anniversaries, birthdays, Valentine’s Day…she has all the dates marked out in her calendar and she expects to have a celebration. I definitely struggled with keeping up in those first years because I never remember shit.”
One year, he didn’t plan anything. The silence in the house lasted an entire week. “I ended up spending double on a weekend getaway just to make up for my wrongdoing,” he recounts.
Now that they’re married with kids, things are different. When he asked what she wanted last year, she sighed and said, “Please, just take the kids out and let me have the house to myself for a few hours.”
That was the best Valentine’s gift he ever gave her. This year, there’s little to no motivation about doing anything extra. “We might go out for movies or a nice meal, but nothing extra.”
“I was broke AF, now I can afford to do anything”
*Jason’s love life during his early 20s was plagued with grand romantic ideas and gestures that never came to life due to limited financial resources. “Valentine’s was stressful AF because I was broke,” he shares.” It didn’t help that my babe was one of the prettiest in our department, and I always assumed she was one yahoo boy closer to dumping my ass. I had to get creative — handwritten notes, mixed CDs, small gifts. She always accepted them, but I never really thought I was giving her the best.”
Now, single in his 30s with a nice paying 9-5 job, the financial implications of Valentine’s Day are the least of his worries. “I can book staycations, buy expensive perfumes, and do the things I couldn’t back then. But then there’s the question of who am I doing these things for?”
Exactly six days to February 14, Jason’s yet to secure a val, and he’s not in the tiniest bit bothered. “I spend most of my Friday nights out with friends, so it’ll just be another Friday.”
Change is constant
For some people, the years have eaten into how they approach Valentine’s Day celebrations. The activities surrounding the day have gone from grand romantic gestures to just another day. However, for some others, it has become more meaningful over time.
Whether it’s a nostalgic memory, an anniversary, or a reminder that your partner used to try harder, one thing is clear — Valentine’s Day never stays the same forever.
And if you don’t care for romantic love and all its accoutrements, you should read our article on how aromantic Nigerians feel about the season of love.
Ladies, gather around because the hottest festival for hot babes is making a comeback. HERtitude 2025 is here, and this year, we’re turning up the heat with Retro Glam—think bold, timeless, and effortlessly chic. If you thought last year’s edition was iconic, wait till you see what we have planned this time.
A Quick Throwback to HERtitude 2024
HERtitude 2024 was nothing short of legendary. Over 1,500 women showed up, showed out, and partied like the queens they are. From music performances to the best vibes, the energy was unmatched. It was giving community, freedom, and a whole lot of hotness.
And now, we’re ready to do it all over again—but bigger, better, and bolder.
So, What’s New in HERtitude 2025?
This year’s theme, Retro Glam, is all about tapping into old-school elegance with a modern twist. We’re talking about:
Insane music performances —Expect a lineup of your faves bringing the energy. Fashion show —A runway moment where you get to serve your best retro glam look. More interactive experiences —Games, speed-friending, tattoos, and all the good stuff. Secret location reveal —Only ticket holders get the exclusive address. (We love a little mystery.)
Filmhouse called and i answered! Vintage Nollywood Inspired Makeup! Shoutout to my mummy for the black and blue lippies Also na tattoo de my chest no be wound This look was inspired by Domitila (1996) film and it’s pretty obvious i has fun filming it Domitila was a mad hit so im already looking forward to the reboot hitting cinemas April 7th! #DomitilaTheReboot#domitilamakeup
Basically, if HERtitude 2024 was the pregame, HERtitude 2025 is the main event.
Date, Time & Where to Get Tickets
Date: April 26th, 2025 Time: 12PM till we say so. Venue: Exclusive to ticket holders (we keep it safe & private, always). Tickets: Available now onTix Africa—so don’t slack!
HERtitude is all about you—the girls, the baddies, the queens, the babes who know they’re the moment. We want you to come as your most confident, vibrant, and unapologetic self. Because at HERtitude, every woman is a hot babe.
The Nigerian experience is physical, emotional, and sometimes international. No one knows it better than our features on #TheAbroadLife, a series where we detail and explore Nigerian experiences while living abroad.
Ella (21) left the loneliness in Germany to reconnect with friends and family in Nigeria. Two years after that decision, she regrets ever leaving Germany. In this episode of Abroad Life, she talks about relocating from Ukraine to Hungary, then Germany, and finally returning to Nigeria within three years.
Where do you currently live, and when did you leave Nigeria?
I lived in Germany, but I moved back to Nigeria in December 2023. I spent two years in Berlin, but before that, I was a student in Ukraine.
Why did you decide to move back to Nigeria?
At that point, I didn’t like a few things about Germany. One of them was that they had no sense of urgency. I also didn’t see the potential of having a good life there because of racism. I thought the colour of my skin would make it harder for me to have a good life and settle down in the country. Looking back at it, that wasn’t the case. I think I just had a more negative mindset at the time, so I decided to move back to Nigeria and try to relocate to North America from there.
You said you had a tough time getting things done. Can you explain what that means?
It was the most basic thing I struggled with. For instance, it took over a year to get a credit card to process online payments. Because of that experience, I concluded that the country was too backwards for me. If you want to register for your address or get your insurance card, you must either write a letter or go to a physical office. There are no online provisions for most of the processes there, and they take forever.
You also mentioned that racism was one of the reasons you moved. Could you tell me more about that?
The interesting thing is I don’t have a personal experience of racism in Germany, but a Nigerian friend of mine did. There was a day when he was trying to get into his apartment. Typically, you open the door with a key or ask someone to buzz you in, but at the time, two German ladies were already at the door. He thought he was going to go in right after they entered, but the German ladies cursed him in their language and slammed the door in his face after they noticed him. The apartment itself was full of racist people. He eventually had to move out before his rent was due, and the landlord refused to give him his deposit.
That’s insane. What did your life in Germany look like at the initial stage, and why did you leave Ukraine?
It wasn’t my decision to leave Ukraine. There was a war going on, and I had to leave for my safety. I was 18 at the time, and I had only spent 2 months there. When I left Ukraine, I moved to Hungary, where I stayed for a month. I had to leave because I couldn’t get a job there or afford their schools. So I decided to move to Germany to continue my education because if you can learn the German language, you can study for free in Germany. When I moved there, I got a job. I love to cook, so I decided to work in a professional kitchen. I was making decent money and could afford everything I wanted to afford. But it was lonely.
What made it lonely?
I don’t think I put any effort into making friends. There’s a difference between wanting to make friends and actually putting yourself out there. I didn’t put myself out there enough, so I didn’t make friends. I had a handful of acquaintances, a roommate and two friends I made in Ukraine. But it was lonely because, at the end of the day, I didn’t have anyone close enough to me to share my struggles and my problems with. I felt alone.
Is that one of the reasons you left?
Yes, I think so. If I had more friends around me, I could have gotten better advice because I don’t think moving to Nigeria was the best decision I could have taken at that point. The people around me at the time didn’t make me feel like I had other options. At that point, moving back felt like my only option.
Did you ever discuss that decision with your family before you moved?
Well, I told them about it, and they said it was fine. They believed that I was old enough to make that decision.
What has life looked like since you moved to Nigeria?
I got to the airport, and I realised what I had done. I still remember feeling anxious at the time but I’ve started adjusting to life in Nigeria. I found my community here and I’m also doing a lot of self reflection and discovery. I don’t have a job at the moment but I’m earning a little from forex trading. Having free time on my hands makes it easier to reflect on where I’m at in life and where I want to be.
I’m glad you’re figuring it out
Oh yes. I’ve been going to the gym and reconnecting with a few of my classmates from secondary school. We meet from time to time. My social life is much better now compared to when I was in Germany. I now have people I can talk to when I have issues. I have friends with whom I can go hiking. It’s not a bad life at all.
Is there anything that took you by surprise after you moved to Nigeria?
I mentioned that I was 18 when I left. I’m 21 now, and I can’t believe how much the prices of things have skyrocketed. It’s insane, and that’s been a big issue for me. I feel like I was able to afford things more easily in Germany. Over there, it was easier to experiment with recipes because things were affordable, but now, I find it difficult to cook as much as I used to. I always find it crazy when I calculate how much I spend on ingredients alone.
I know. Was Ukraine any better?
I was only there for two months, so I don’t have much to say about the country. Being a teenager in Ukraine was scary. I was so naive, and I made many mistakes. But I don’t like to dwell on those memories because they made me stronger.
One thing I can say about Ukraine is that the Nigerian community there is much better than Germany’s. I was able to find a Nigerian community in the church and in my hostel. I got to form some nice bonds within the space of two months. Another thing is the weather—I wasn’t prepared for how cold it was there and was still trying to adjust to it when the war started.
What was the war like for you?
I was in denial at first and decided to stay back despite my parent’s pleas. I stayed put till things got bad, and I decided to leave for Hungary. I stayed in a shelter when I got to Hungary. The Hungarian government helped and fed us for a bit, but they put out a notice saying they wouldn’t be giving people permits to stay in their country. In the absence of a permit, some Nigerians in the shelter decided to seek asylum, but I didn’t want to do that. That’s when I moved to Germany, hoping to learn their language and study for free.
So, did you ever learn to speak German perfectly?
Not really. I only know enough German to get through the most basic conversations.
If you could go back in time, would you still move back to Nigeria?
Probably not. I regret it, but I’m not going to sit with that regret. I can admit that it wasn’t the best decision, but I have moved past it. Now, I advise Nigerians who are considering moving back because of the lack of community to find a church or a gathering with people who practice whatever religion they belong to. You’ll find good people there, and It will help you on those bad days. In Germany, I had only one person around me, and that one person said things that drove me back to Nigeria. Something that wouldn’t have happened if I was surrounded by more good people.
Do you have any plans to relocate in the future?
I’m actually planning to leave the country this year. I want to go back to Europe to get my education. I’m content with my life here, but I don’t see myself raising children here.
I’m rooting for you! On a scale of one to 10. How happy would you say you are right now?
I’ll say 8.5. I just need one tiny miracle, and my happiness will be a perfect ten.
Do you want to share your Abroad Life story? Please reach out to me here. For new episodes of Abroad Life, check in every Friday at 12 PM (WAT).
In 2021, 15-year-old Ela made her first attempt at monetising her design skills and made $600. But it was her second attempt in 2023 that truly paid off. In just one year, she made over ₦6 million designing websites and graphics. Here’s how she did it.
As told to Boluwatife
Model is not affiliated with the story.
I graduated from secondary school in 2023 and took a gap year. I want to study medicine, and I didn’t get that the first time I wrote JAMB, so I decided I’d rather rewrite the exam than settle for a course I didn’t want.
While I waited, I decided to pursue freelance gigs. Within a year, I made over ₦6m offering website and graphic design services. You might assume the rapid income growth was just beginner’s luck, but this wasn’t my first stint at freelance work. That happened in 2021.
My first attempt at freelancing
The COVID pandemic halted the world in 2020, but its effects lingered in 2021. I was in SS 1, and my computer engineer dad — who often travelled for work — couldn’t travel anymore. It was a tough financial year for us, and we had to make difficult decisions.
One of those decisions was my education. My dad couldn’t afford my fees, so I stayed home for about nine months. I used my free time to turn my design hobby into an income source.
My interest in design is courtesy of my dad; he fed my curiosity about computers and websites. From him, I learned that I enjoyed learning how to code and design. I taught myself how to design and make illustrations by experimenting with free software like Photopea, Figma, Vimeo, Krita, and Canva.
I also joined a Discord writing community to share my work and design book covers for people for free. I was well-known on Discord.
So, when I had to pause school in 2021, I turned to Discord and offered book cover design services for a fee. I landed six gigs and made $600 during the year. I couldn’t make more because of payment issues. I live in Nigeria, so I couldn’t get paid with PayPal. Also, I was 15, a minor, and couldn’t open an account to receive international payments.
I had to use my mum’s account, which posed another problem: different names. It took a lot of effort to assure clients they weren’t being scammed. So, when school resumed, I stopped pursuing the gigs and faced school squarely. I left my earnings with my parents, who kept the money in a savings account.
I haven’t asked about the money, but I’m honestly not bothered. Whether they saved it or used it, it’d still benefit me. I’m just happy I could make money.
Growing capacity (and income) freelancing as a website and graphic designer
My next foray into freelancing started in August 2023. I was better prepared this time.
I created a portfolio and shared it on a graphic design subreddit for feedback. Interestingly, I got more than feedback. People began to reach out, asking if I was open to working with them.
One of them was a US-based client who wanted to create a website for a US political candidate. I didn’t know how much to charge, so on the initial call, I told them it’d charge anything from $200 to $2000. I wanted to buy time so I could check in with my mum and do more research. The client was just like, “Okay, send a proposal.”
Somehow, I convinced the client that the brand needed more than a website. I proposed a total revamp with new logos and brand direction. The project took about four months to complete, and I received the full $2k as payment.
I’m still shocked that I didn’t get pushback on my charge. The project also boosted my confidence. The client knew I was barely 18 and still trusted me with something important. The odds of that happening in Nigeria are almost zero.
The same client reached out later to offer me another web design gig. That paid $1500, bringing my total income in 2023 to $3500.
2024: Moving to Instagram
In March 2024, I spread my freelancing net to Instagram and started offering web design services, logo and banner design, and social media templates.
My target was small business owners. On my page, I shared my designs, reels, and tips about how businesses could boost their websites to optimise for sales and visibility. My mum helped me run a ₦50k Instagram ad, and I got three clients in the first month. Since then, I’ve gotten at least one client monthly, typically making up to ₦100k/month. I don’t have a specific price point for my services because every client wants something different.
I do offer packages that clients can choose from, though. For instance, I have a ₦100k package, which includes five social media templates, a logo, packaging labels, and banners.
In 2024, I made ₦650k from Instagram clients alone, and it would’ve been more if I was consistent. I focused more on growing my Instagram account and preparing for JAMB than chasing clients.
Right now, all my earnings are saved in a commercial bank’s money market fund. My parents opened the account on my behalf, and I don’t handle the day-to-day or have much knowledge of how it works. I know the bank uses the money to finance loans and investments, and then pays the interest to the account owner.
The monthly dividend is at least 7%, and I can access my money at any time. If I convert my savings to naira at the current exchange rate, I will have a little over ₦6m.
Income outlook for 2025
I might continue chasing gigs when I get into uni, but only for the first two years. Medicine is hard, and I’d like to focus.
However, I want to grow my income through investments. I fear that if I don’t figure out how to make my money work for me, all my hard work will be for nothing. What happens if I don’t have a steady income source? I’m not sure I can be financially secure—no matter how much money I make—until I learn to invest. Or maybe until I finally become a practising doctor.
This year, I plan to be deliberate with investments. My mum owns a spice business, and she sources her products — ginger powder, cinnamon, curry, rosemary and the rest — from farmers in and outside Nigeria.
The business seems profitable. She recently invested ₦1m in ginger powder — she bought it from farmers in Northern Nigeria and made ₦4m after selling it. I might invest half of my savings in that.
I’m also learning about stocks and will dabble in them this year. However, I intend to play it safe and will only experiment with small amounts at a time. I’m sure I’ll figure it out soon.
I was searching for people who had fallen out with their parents when I found *Fareedat.
In this story, the 42-year-old single mum of three opens up about the tough decisions that led her to send her mother back home and the struggles of navigating family, distance, and regret.
As told to Adeyinka
I thought bringing my mum to care for my kids was the best decision I could make. After all, she raised me. Who better to look after them while I was thousands of miles away? But now, sitting in my small apartment in Canada, dreading every phone call from home, I realise I made a huge mistake.
When I relocated to Canada last year, leaving my three children behind in Nigeria was the hardest thing I had to do. I had been my children’s primary caregiver for years. Though their father and I were separated and he was still involved, I didn’t trust him to handle their daily care the way I would. Taking them with me wasn’t an option at the time, and the only solution that made sense was getting someone I trusted to stay with them.
I didn’t have many people I could turn to. My siblings and I had grown apart over the years, and extended family wasn’t an option — either because they weren’t interested or because I couldn’t see them taking good enough care of my children. The only person I felt remotely comfortable asking was my mum.
I won’t pretend we had a perfect relationship. Growing up, I had my fair share of issues with her; she was strict, impatient, and not the most affectionate person. But she was my mum, and at the end of the day, she had raised me. I thought that if I explained what I needed and set clear boundaries, she would step up for her grandchildren in a way she couldn’t for me.
I begged her to move from Osun State to Lagos to stay with them. She hesitated at first, saying she was too old to be running around after kids, but I assured her that I would send more than enough money for their upkeep and get someone to help around the house. She eventually agreed, and I felt a sense of relief for the first time since my relocation. I thought I had found the perfect solution. I had no idea the chaos that was about to unfold.
Within weeks, I started getting complaints. At first, they were small things. My mum made them wake up way earlier than they were used to, forcing them to eat meals they didn’t like, or complaining that they spent too much time watching TV. I told them to be patient. “Grandma is old school,” I reminded them. “Just listen to her and don’t give her stress.”
But soon, the complaints became impossible to ignore. My first son, who is 13, started calling me every other day, his voice a mix of frustration and exhaustion. “Mummy, Grandma is always shouting. If I forget to do anything, she won’t just correct me; she’ll insult me for hours.”
My 10-year-old daughter would call crying because Grandma had called her lazy and cursed her out for not washing plates quickly enough. My youngest, just eight, became quieter on the phone, which scared me the most. It was unlike him. I kept asking him what was wrong, but he would just mumble that everything was fine and pass the phone back to his siblings.
The final straw came one evening when my eight-year-old finally admitted what had been happening. He called me crying and said, “Mummy, Grandma didn’t let me eat dinner because she said I was stubborn.”
I tried to stay calm and proceeded to ask why. He said he forgot to greet her when returned from school, and her response was to deny him dinner.
My heart sank. I knew my mum was harsh, but this was beyond what I could tolerate. I was over 10,000 kilometres away, unable to physically intervene, and my child was being denied food over something so small.
I called her immediately, barely able to keep my voice steady and asked what was going on. My mum sighed dramatically and was already defensive. Then she went on a long rant about how my children don’t respect her. She said I’d spoiled them. I remember her saying something along the lines of, “In my time, children knew their place. If you don’t train them well, the world will train them for you.”
I tried to explain to her that discipline didn’t have to come with verbal abuse or punishment that could affect the kids emotionally, but she wasn’t having it. She insisted I was overreacting and that my children would grow up to be “useless” if I didn’t toughen them up.
That was the beginning of months of tension. Every time I tried to have a civil conversation, she dismissed me. She insisted the children were exaggerating things to make her look bad. But I could hear the frustration and sadness in their voices. The love they once had for their grandmother was turning into resentment.
My mum and I started fighting more. She said I was ungrateful and had left my kids for her to raise but was dictating how she should do it. She stopped taking my calls as often, and when she did, she only called to tell me how stubborn my children were and how I was failing as a mother.
One night, my daughter sent me a voice note of my mum saying, “Your mother has spoiled all of you. If I had my way, I’d send you to the village to suffer.” I played the voice note repeatedly, and my chest tightened with each listen.
That was when I knew things had to change. I had left Nigeria thinking I was making the best possible choice for my kids, but I had only put them in another difficult situation. I could no longer prioritise keeping the peace with my mother over their emotional well-being.
So I made the hardest call I have ever had to make. I told her she had to leave.
She didn’t argue. She just said, “Fine. Let me pack my things.” But her tone was cold, and I knew she would never forgive me for it.
At first, I felt relief. But then, the reality of my decision hit me. I had removed my mum from the situation, but I hadn’t solved the bigger problem — who would take care of my kids now?
I have two options: I can beg another family member to move in, or I can send them to live with a friend’s family. But I’m terrified of making another mistake. What if the next person I trust with them is just as bad or worse?
For now, I call them every morning and night, making sure they are okay. But I know this isn’t a long-term solution. I need to figure something out soon.
I just hope I don’t regret my next decision, too.
Struggling with a difficult relationship with your parents? You’re not alone. Read our article, where Nigerians open up about navigating fractured family bonds and the tough choices that come with it.
At just barely five years old, Emmanuella Samuel became one of the most recognisable faces in a new era of short-form comedic content. As a former member of the Mark Angel group of comics, her videos, with her sharp wit, were constant fixtures in the pre-TikTok years.
She was nominated twice for the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award: in 2018 as Favorite African Stars alongside Davido and again in 2021 as Favorite African Social Star, which she won.
As a teenager, she has moved away from the sharp-mouthed Emmanuella the public first met and came to love. But she has not moved away from skit-making, as she regularly jumps on trends on TikTok. All this she does while attending secondary school. How does she balance it all?
In this week’s #MadeinNigeria, she opens up about being a child star, going to school, and why her old friends are scared of her now.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
How did you start making content?
I started when I was about four years old. At the time, it wasn’t something I took too seriously—I was just having fun. I’d mimic people, act out scenes, and entertain my family without even realising I was creating content. But as I got older, I started paying more attention to it, and eventually, it became something I knew I wanted to do for real.
What has the journey been like so far?
The journey hasn’t been easy at all. People see the fun parts—the recognition, the exciting projects, the love from fans—but they don’t always see the sacrifices. I’ve had to let a lot of things go because of work. Sometimes, I miss out on normal teenage experiences because I have a schedule to keep up with. But at the end of the day, I love what I do, and that makes the hard parts worth it.
How do you balance work and school?
It’s not easy at all, but I make it work. I only take on projects during weekends and school holidays to make sure my work doesn’t affect my studies. I also have a great team that helps me manage everything. Back in the day, I used to read like my life depended on it because I didn’t want to fail. Even now, I take my academics very seriously—I’ve worked too hard to let one side of my life suffer because of the other.
What does it mean to be a teen star in Nigeria?
It comes with a lot of expectations. In school, I find it hard to come out of my class during break time because everyone wants to talk to me or take pictures. It’s exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Everyone wants to be my friend, and sometimes, I can’t tell who genuinely likes me for me and who just wants to be associated with my fame. But I love the attention—I just make sure not to let it get to my head.
What’s an interesting encounter you’ve had with a fan?
There have been a lot, but one of the funniest happened at an international event in the Caribbean. I was just walking in when some people saw me and started bowing like I was some kind of goddess. At first, I was confused, then I just burst out laughing. It was flattering but also really funny.
What’s it like working as a teen star in an industry full of adults?
Honestly, it’s great. Most of the adults I work with show me love and encourage me. They don’t treat me like a child but as someone who has something to offer. It makes me feel valued and respected in the industry, and I really appreciate that.
What kind of reactions do you get from fans?
Words can’t even explain it. The love is overwhelming. Sometimes, I’ll post something and the response is just mind-blowing. People send me messages telling me how much they admire me, how I inspire them, or how something I did made them smile. Those moments remind me why I do this.
How have your friends treated you differently since you became famous?
A lot of them have changed. Some of my old friends are scared to come around me now—like they think I’ve changed or that I see myself as better than them. In reality, I’m still the same person. But I understand that fame can make people act differently, and not everyone knows how to handle it. At this point, I have only a few close friends, and I’m okay with that.
What do you love the most about being famous?
Definitely the attention and appreciation that comes with it. There’s something special about knowing that people see and celebrate your hard work. It makes all the sacrifices worth it.
What do you dislike the most about being famous?
I can’t just move around freely like my peers. Sometimes, I just want to go out, chill, and be a normal teenager, but that’s not always possible. There’s always someone watching, and that comes with its own pressure.
How has fame changed your life?
In both good and bad ways. On the positive side, it has opened doors for me and given me opportunities I never imagined. But there’s also the downside—sometimes, I read comments on my posts, and they make me want to cry. Other times, I see something nice, and I can’t stop smiling. It’s a mix of emotions, but I’m learning to focus on the good and not let the bad get to me.
What’s next for you?
I’m currently under a new management team called RawTalent.com, and we’re working on taking my career to the next level. If you’ve been following my page, you’ll notice a transformation in the kind of content I put out and the quality of my production. This is just the beginning—I’m excited for what’s coming next.
Meme coins are a class of crypto driven by wildly resonant memes, hype, narratives, and internet culture rather than actual use cases. Think of them as the crypto equivalent of a viral trend. They can blow up overnight, make some people rich, and then disappear just as fast.
Despite having no fundamental value, meme coins have made people overnight millionaires and bankrupted them just as quickly.
We spoke to four Nigerian meme coin traders who have experienced the madness firsthand. From wild profits to crushing losses, here’s what they said.
Wale, 25, Crypto Twitter Influencer: “I turned $400 to $22k with a meme coin.”
In September 2024, I bought 224,000 units of a meme coin called BabyBNB for $400. Five days later, I made $22,000. This is how it happened.
Some context: I stumbled on BabyBNB during a random Twitter scroll. The meme coin was a spin-off of BNB (Binance Coin), a cryptocurrency issued by Binance, the largest crypto exchange in the world.
While the original BNB has been used to facilitate payments and trades since 2017, this spinoff had no clear utility or purpose. But it didn’t matter.
Meme coins thrive on hype, and Binance was all the rage on Twitter because of a scandal: Changpeng Zhao (CZ), who founded the crypto exchange, had just been released from a four-month sentence. This shot BNB’s price through the moon, and meme coin traders quickly capitalised on the trend.
BabyBNB launched on September 27, the same day Binance founder Zhao was released. I started buying large units at fractions of cents: $50 here, $100 there, and slowly built my position. The prices took off on the first day, and I started taking profits immediately. In just a few hours, I sold the first 36,000 units for $3,600.
The price peaked at $0.143 per unit on the third day, and I offloaded almost everything. I knew it was time to sell because early buyers with significant holdings had started taking their profit and offloading the coin. I figured they knew something I didn’t, and that was my signal to sell.
Imagine stocking 224,000 litres of petrol at ₦180 per litre. Three days later, fuel scarcity hits, and the price jumps to ₦600 per litre. You sell everything at the peak and cash out big before things return to normal. That was exactly what this was. I withdrew all my money in five days and locked in $22k. I turned ₦600K to ₦33 million with one insane gamble.
Baby BNB is practically worthless today. If I had held onto my coins, they’d be worth $274. That’s the thing about meme coins; you either take your profits when you can or cry later.
Abdul*, 24, Community Moderator: “I turned $670 into $11K overnight with $TRUMP.”
January 17, 2025, was a regular Friday until it wasn’t. I returned from the gym, showered, and dozed off briefly. When I woke up at midnight, my night turned into absolute madness.
I sat down to my usual routine of filtering through meme coin updates, looking for my next potential stake. Around 4 a.m., a friend sent me an update on Telegram: Donald Trump had launched an official meme coin.
It was three days before his inauguration, and the announcement was right there on his Twitter account.
The idea of a U.S. president-elect launching a meme coin for quick returns was insane, and I was sceptical, fearing it was a scam. Reputable accounts get hacked on Twitter, and this meme coin was riding on a political trend.
I caved when I saw that the market value had exploded from zero to $4 billion a few hours after launch.
Something big was happening.
I threw in $670, and my money increased to $1,600 in the blink of an eye. I quickly took out $800, which was enough to cover my initial stake and secure some profit. Then I went to sleep.
I woke up a few hours later and was in utter disbelief when I checked my balance. My wallet had $11,000 in it. I withdrew everything instantly; I didn’t spend a second mulling over it.
I had learned not to be over-greedy. Even though I was technically greedy for leaving the remaining money overnight, it was something I could afford to lose.
On October 18th 2024, I went in with $2,000. But when the value started dropping significantly, I panicked and sold for a brutal $1,300 loss. As if my village people were personally mocking me, the damn coin took off.
I watched in horror as $Fartcoin’s value skyrocketed.
What followed was an emotional rollercoaster. On the first day, the market cap shot up to $4 million before it crashed to $2 million. I thought, “Yeah, I made the right call.”
A day later, the market cap exploded to $25 million. Five days later? It was back down to $6 million. That was a 70% drop. I thought I’d dodged a bullet, so I bailed and dumped everything.
But from that $6 million low, $Fartcoin blew past $100 million, to $500 million, to $1.3 billion, and then its peak of $2 billion. I would have turned my $2,000 into $600,000 if I had held my position. Instead, I walked away with a loss.
Meme coins brutally test your patience. No trader likes to lose because it seriously wrecks your confidence. It’s always better to walk away with something than to watch your money vanish into thin air. That’s why I made my decision.
I’ve learned my lesson, though. In meme coin trading, fear is your worst enemy. If you panic, you lose. If you get greedy, you definitely lose. And If you hesitate, you’ll miss out on money that could have changed your life. But the real test is knowing whether to hold or sell. I made the wrong call, and it cost me dearly.
Mark*, 31, Software Developer: “I’m a sore loser. I put $800 in meme coins and lost it all.”
I started trading meme coins in November 2024. Bitcoin had recently hit $100k, and the entire crypto market gained new momentum. Everyone was making money except me.
I had some agricultural investments, but I was looking for ways to diversify my portfolio and generate quick returns. That’s when I learned about meme coins.
At first, I played it safe. I’d take $10 out of my monthly income, convert it to crypto on an exchange platform like Bybit, and then trade it on pump-fun. Then I started buying different meme coins: $50 here, another $300 and $400 there. Before I knew it, I had put in $800, and everything crashed to zero in minutes.
I hoped I’d catch the next big meme coin and make a 10,000% profit. It’s simple: I’d buy large units early and wait for hype to increase demand. Before I knew it, the price would have multiplied.
But I’m a sore loser. I bought, held, and lost everything. I watched the coins pump, but I didn’t take profit; I was gunning for the highest.
Since November, I’ve traded at least 50 meme coins and lost every time. My wallet is still full of them, but they’re worthless.
I’ve lost everything, and I’ll probably lose again. But as long as there’s a shot at life-changing money, I will continue to trade meme coins.
Bottom line
Meme coin trading is like sports betting in a suit. You might get lucky, but most times, you won’t. If you can’t afford to lose the money, think twice before staking it. Most importantly, do your own research.
We’re only 39 days into 2025, and it’s already looking like the year Nigerians might have to unlearn the “state and capital” rhyme from primary school. In case you haven’t heard, the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution just received a proposal to add 31 new states to the already existing 36.
Since news of the proposal broke on February 6, Nigerians have had many questions about the development; we’ll answer some of them in this article.
A little backstory
Before we get into the long list of proposed states, you need to know who the committee behind this proposal is and how much power it has. The House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution (as the name suggests), is in charge of amending the Nigerian constitution we all know and reference. If you’re not aware that the Constitution is getting amended, we don’t exactly blame you because the government hasn’t been the loudest about it (This is your cue to subscribe to Zikoko Citizen’s daily newsletter so nothing about Nigeria catches you by surprise)
In February 2024, a constitution review committee was established with members from each of Nigeria’s 36 states. The committee includes key leaders from the House of Representatives, regional house groups, six women from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, representatives for People With Disabilities (PWDs), and members of civil rights groups. These guys have been working consistently to bring the updated constitution to life.
This committee is a big deal. If the majority of lawmakers from the Senate, House of Representatives, and House of Assembly of the affected states agree, the proposal for new states could actually become part of the amended constitution.
What new Nigerian states are lawmakers proposing?
Here’s a breakdown of the proposed states:
North-Central
Benue Ala State – from Benue State
Okun State – from Kogi State
Okura State – from Kogi State
Confluence State – from Kogi State
Apa-Agba State – from Benue South Senatorial District
Apa State – from Benue State
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja – to be recognized as the 37th state
North-East
Amana State – from Adamawa State
Katagum State – from Bauchi State
Savannah State – from Borno State
Muri State – from Taraba State
North-West
New Kaduna State & Gurara State – from Kaduna State
Tiga State – from Kano State
Kainji State – from Kebbi State
Ghari State – from Kano State
South-East
Etiti State – proposed as the sixth state in the South-East region
Adada State – from Enugu State
Urashi State – proposed as the sixth state in the South-East region
Orlu State – from the South-East region
Aba State – from the South-East region
South-South
Ogoja State – from Cross River State
Warri State – from Delta State
Bori State – from Rivers State
Obolo State – from parts of Rivers and Akwa Ibom States
South-West
Toru-Ebe State – from Delta, Edo, and Ondo States
Ibadan State – from Oyo State
Lagoon State – from Lagos State
Ijebu State – from Ogun State
Lagoon State – from Lagos and Ogun States
Ife-Ijesha State – from Oyo State
Oke-Ogun State – from parts of Ogun, Oyo, and Osun States
Can Nigeria afford new states?
Running 36 states is already a financial headache. Nigerian states currently owe over ₦11 trillion in debts, while the federal government owes over ₦134 trillion . Despite the shitload of debt these states are in, 32 out of the 36 Nigerian states still don’t have enough money to run their affairs. Most of these states depend heavily on allocations from the federal government. In 2023, 55% of state income came from the federal government (which is interesting because FG also depends on public debts). Now imagine adding 31 new states to the mix. More governors, lawmakers, and government agencies means more money that Nigeria doesn’t appear to have.
Could this actually happen?
The Nigerian constitution has a procedure for creating additional states, and according to those provisions, new states can be created if the following is done: First, most of the lawmakers representing the affected areas—at least two out of every three—must support the creation of the states. This includes senators, the House of Representatives, state assembly members, and local government councils.
Next, the people in the area must vote, and at least two out of every three must say yes. When that’s done, more than half of Nigeria’s states must agree before the proposal moves forward.
Finally, the National Assembly must give the final approval, with two out of every three lawmakers in both the Senate and House of Reps voting yes. If this proposal passes these stages, it could be written into the amended constitution. Judging by the fact that we woke up to a new national anthem one random morning in 2025, this proposal might be passed as law faster than anyone can say “Tinubu”.
What are the disadvantages of the creation of a new state in Nigeria?
There are a handful of problems that could come with the creation of a new state but we’ll attempt to answer this question by referencing the problems that some of Nigeria’s youngest states currently face.
You may or may not know this, but Nigeria only had 30 states up to 1996 when Bayelsa, Ebonyi Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, and Zamfara States were created and added to the mix. As we’ve already established earlier, these states are not generating enough revenue, but that’s not their worst problem. In states like Ebonyi, there have also been decade-long boundary disputes that have claimed the lives of several people.
Additional states, even as little as two, can potentially change things for Nigerians, so while the current proposal for 31 additional states might sound unachievable, a compromise on numbers is still possible. This is one of those proposals that can change everything for Nigerians.
How can you influence the outcome of this current development?
The most basic step towards influencing the outcome of whatever happens is to be informed about the situation. To keep up with the proposed state creation, subscribe to Zikoko Citizen’s daily newsletter. You can also set up a Google alert with “proposed 31 new states in Nigeria” as your keywords. Zikoko Citizen is also hosting Citizen Townhall, a hybrid event where young leaders and policymakers discuss ways to shape Nigeria’s future. Register here to join the conversation and make an impact.
Today, we’re taking you to church with some fantastic, moving gospel songs. The gospel industry has always been a cornerstone of Nigerian music, and this week, we are highlighting the best that we’ve gotten in the 2020s (so far). The songs on this list were selected based on their quality, reach and arrangement.
Here are the 20 best Nigerian gospel songs of the 2020s so far.
20. “Ogo” — Dunsin Oyekun feat. Theophilus Sunday
Dunsin Oyekan, Theophilus Sunday, and the supporting choir express their gratitude to God in this 10-minute-long worship song. The singers sing so loudly, I can picture their voices tearing the heavens open.
If you’re looking for a worship song to start your day, this is a great pick.
19. “Eze Ebube” — Neon Adejobi
There’s a song for every state of mind, and “Eze Ebube” captures two: thanksgiving and backsliding. Neon Adejo ties them together as he reflects on his journey, recalling how far he’s come in his faith walk and crediting his growth to God.
With heavy keyboard and guitar riffs swelling in the background, Neon’s voice projects loudly — as loud as his convictions. He’s backed by a large choir that complements rather than overwhelms him. Every singer hits their notes with precision, never missing a cue.
18. “Worthy of My Praise” — Dunsin Oyekun feat. Lawrence Oyor
The trueness of God and the devotion to those who worship him is at the heart of this song. “From my spirit to my soul until my voice re-echoes / You’re worthy of my praise,” Dunsin Oyekan and Lawrence Oyor sing, making this the perfect anthem when words of thanksgiving escape you.
Its production rumbles with the deep, roaring baritones of these ministers, seamlessly shifting from singing praises to reciting lines for the choir to echo. Lawrence is the melody box, while Dunsin carries the fire of a prayer warrior, effortlessly moving from rhythm into speaking in tongues. But this song is more than its powerful lyrics. As the lead voices soar, the choir provides a grounding calm, turning the performance into something beyond just music — an out-of-body experience, abstract yet deeply felt.
17. “Nazarene” — Anendlessocean
If you need proof that faith-based music can thrive on Amapiano, this song is it. Born from the peace of mind that comes with salvation. Anendlessocean sings about finding a rare kind of love in his faith. With unwavering confidence, he declares the goodness God pours into his life—a devotion not just acknowledged, but celebrated. This isn’t just a song of gratitude; it’s a dedication to the ultimate source of joy. For Anendlessocean, that source is God.
From its trilingual lyricism to its relatability, production, melodies, and undeniable replay value, this track ticks all the right boxes.
16. “Correct” — Greatman Takit
This song is Greatman Takit’s way of declaring that he serves a God who never abandons His worshipers. He sings about resilience — every time he has fallen, he has risen again, lifted by divine grace.
The song’s song structure feels intentional, borrowing elements from mainstream music to create a sound that feels both fresh and familiar. From the Amapiano-infused production to the choral effects, Greatman Takit ensures listeners feel at home before delivering his message.
15. “Omo Baba” — Spirit of Prophecy
This is further proof that Nigerian gospel music isn’t rigid or one-dimensional. “Omo Baba” is a modern take on Afrobeats within the gospel space. Spirit of Prophecy speaks the language of today’s youth, using familiar lingo to draw them to God.
Accessibility matters in music — so does language. This song, created by a group of young artists shaped by youth culture, is made for everyone to experience. If we had to pick ten new-age gospel jams that’d pass the vibe check in any setting, “Omo Baba” would easily land in the top five.
14. “Broken” — kaestrings
In a moment of helplessness and vulnerability, kaestrings calls on a divine healer to mend his broken spirit. The song reflects the heart of a believer who admits they can’t fix themselves and, in surrender, places everything in the hands of God.
There’ll always be a place for ballads in music — especially ones performed by artists who have mastered the art of the emotional crescendo. In this song, kaestrings’s humanness shines just as brightly as his spirituality. His raw honesty is what makes this song so brilliant.
13. “Eti Tobi To Jesu” — EmmaOMG feat. Pelumi Deborah
This song takes a classic local church approach, opening with a short Bible verse to set the tone before launching into singing and performance. EmmaOMG and Pelumi Deborah weave figurative language throughout, painting a powerful picture of the mightiness of Jesus.
This is a praise song that’s simple yet enthralling, pulling in listeners with its call-and-response style. Unlike most contemporary songs, this is a record that I suspect the traditional and new generation church will keep reheating for many years to come.
12. “Elijah Level” — Gaise Baba feat. Izee Smith
According to Gaise Baba, the Holy Spirit has placed him on something extraordinary — like Elijah’s biblical chariot, moving at a speed not even six Ferraris could match. . The message is clear: as a believer, you’re always ahead.
This track also benefits from being as groovy as your favourite afrobeats banger, blending vibrant energy with faith-driven lyrics. It’s a bold declaration wrapped in irresistible rhythm — further proof that gospel music can be just as exhilarating as any mainstream hit.
11. “You I Live For” — Moses Bliss and Loveworld Indomitable Choir
Moses Bliss and the choir make promises to listen to only their God, refusing to submit to mundane voices. This is their conviction, and they stand by it with their full chest.
The choir-backed style remains timeless, even in the modern church. And if there’s anyone mastering it today, it’s Moses Bliss. This song stands as one of his sharpest performances, showcasing his ability to blend powerful vocals with unwavering faith.
10. “Wonder” — Mercy Chinwo
This is a praise song, hailing God for his continuous wonders that are all available to man for free. Mercy Chinwo is in the conversation for top 3 biggest gospel musicians of her generation, and the deserved success of this song is a big reason why.
The drums burst the song open with a tempo that’s lively enough to get handkerchiefs waving in the air and bodies gyrating. It’s not only catchy, it packs all the emotional punch of communal worship.
“Agbara Olorun Po” translates to “God’s power is mighty” in Yorùbá. The song alludes to the fall of the walls of Jericho and the parting of the Red Sea as a show of their God’s mighty power. Praise or worship session, this song will effortlessly bang — it’s a perfect blend of both.
8. “That’s My Name” — TY Bello feat. Angeloh & Gaise Baba
Walking in faith means carrying the assurance of God’s love — a love that remains steadfast even when we misstep. TY Bello believes this is the purest form of unconditional love she has ever felt, and she delivers that message with conviction.
Since 2020, TY Bello has been on an impressive album run, releasing eight projects. And “That’s My Name, ” from her 2023 HEAVEN HAS COME album, definitely stands out as her most diverse and accessible track yet.
Is it praise and worship if there’s zero thanks to God for providing? From the title to the chorus and verses, this song examines the gift of abundance that believers say they receive.
Limoblaze fuses Afrobeats with Hip-Hop, creating a track that resonates with audiences from Africa to the US. American rapper Lecrae elevates the record with his witty, easy-on-the-ears rap verse, making it even more dynamic.
6. “Capable God” — Judikay
On “Capable God,” Judikay knows that she’s a beneficiary of God’s provisions and acknowledges that fully unlocking every perk requires her full alignment with the word. With unwavering faith, she sings about having no fear of impossibilities.
Her music pays homage to the legacy of gospel greats like Sister Chioma Jesus and Agatha Moses. In both style and delivery, she perfectly blends traditional praise and worship with the modern gospel sounds. “Capable God” finds her at the peak of her powers, which explains why, with over 11 million plays, it’s her biggest Spotify hit.
5. “New Generation” — Ebuka Songs & Moses Bliss
This song is a rallying call to young Christians to carry their faith on their head. Two of the gospel scene’s favourites join forces, presenting themselves as models and representatives of Christ for the new generation.
More than just a gospel anthem, this track feels like an essential item in the new generation Christian starter pack. If there’s a song that proudly announces a young Nigerian’s identity as a believer, this is it.
4. “Oni Duro” — Adeyinka Aleseleyori
Imagine you take a loan, and God’s your guarantor — that’s the figurative reasoning behind this song about an unfailing God. Upon release, this song sparked controversy and debate when Tope Alabi, a senior gospel artist, criticised the semantics of the song title.
The buzz only made the song bigger, with Fuji legend Pasuma covering it at a show to express support for Adeyinka Alaseyori. Beyond the drama, it’s an excellent song that has earned its spot among modern worship classics.
3. “Ebenezeri” — Kent Edunjobi & APEX CHOIR feat. EmmaOMG
For context, “Ebenezeri” is the Yoruba intonation of Ebenezer, a Hebrew word that means “stone of help.” This song is a heartfelt dedication to the Heavens for being a strong and dependable source of support
The production is modern but intentionally leans toward a traditional sound rather than Western influences. Its language remains native and simple, borrowing from popular scriptures and older church songs — making it instantly familiar. EmmaOMG’s voice is unmistakable, shining alongside the feature. And when it comes to vocal dexterity, Kent Edunjobi and the choir ate.
2. “Olorun Agbaye (You Are Mighty)” — Nathaniel Bassey feat. Chandler Moore & Oba
The popular church song “Olorun Agbaye” (meaning “God of the whole wide world” in Yoruba) got a facelift in 2021 when Nathaniel Bassey and the featured artists expanded on its iconic chorus with new verses. They also added slower instrumentals, drawing listeners into a state of worship.
Every performance of this song carries an undeniable power — a goosebump-inducing, soul-stirring rush of nostalgia that leaves even the coldest listener moved. It’s proof that a well-done remake can outshine the original.
1. “Favour” — Lawrence Oyor
This is a manifestation song — one that declares the angels have blown the doors of favours open. And it’s already living up to its message for the singer, Lawrence Oyor. “Favour” currently has over 4.5 million streams on Spotify, making it the most-streamed Nigerian song of 2025 on the platform so far.
The production is cinematic, moving seamlessly from calm to intense. The lyricism is straightforward yet spellbinding — the kind of words you repeatedly sing until they lift you into an almost ethereal place. Backed by a powerful choral performance, the song echoes with the kind of heavenly resonance I imagine angels sound like.
I met him on Tinder in January 2020, and our connection was instant. We started talking every day—long phone calls, endless texts, funny videos back and forth, you name it. After two or three weeks, we decided to meet in person for a date.
When I saw him, I was so blown away. He was every bit as handsome as his photos, and I was very pleased. He took me to a very fancy restaurant by the waterside for dinner, and we talked until late. Between the romantic live music, the handsome man, and the good food, I was so sure I had found my bus stop. Mschew, if only I had known.
What happened?
For context, I had my period on the day of the date. Because I didn’t want to rush into intimacy, I scheduled the date to fall around when my period would come around. We had agreed to have dinner first, and then I would spend two nights at his place.
After the date, we went back to his house. Much to his frustration, we couldn’t have sex. Instead, we made out and snuggled in bed, and everything felt chill.
In the morning, while we were tidying up his apartment, he stepped out to take a work call. When he came back in, he said he wanted me to stay even longer than we agreed. The plan was for me to go home, get more clothes, and then return to his apartment. He was rushing me, so I assumed I didn’t need to take the clothes that were already there, given that I would be back soon. Instead, I folded them into one of the closets and left.
I was shocked when I got home, and I found out that he had blocked me everywhere.
That’s crazy o.
You have no idea. I had to use my roommate’s phone to call him and figure out what was going on. That’s when I found out he was married o and his wife was on her way back home, all while he was rushing me out of the house.
Ah. What did you do?
I immediately started begging him to send me my clothes because one of my favourite ones— a gift from my mom — was in that closet. He agreed, unblocked me, and then called my number—I could tell I was on loudspeaker. He started asking if we had sex; it was apparent his woman was grilling him, and he wanted me to clear his name.
Omo. What did you say?
I was really irritated, and I felt used because we were so close. I never guessed he was even talking to someone else, let alone being married.
I answered his foolish question, but not before I threatened to drag him online if he didn’t send my clothes to me ASAP. According to his wife, “Melvin” wasn’t even his real name. I hated everything about that experience.
As soon as I got my clothes from a delivery rider, I blocked him. I pray I never encounter such rubbish again.
Every week, Zikoko seeks to understand how people move the Naira in and out of their lives. Some stories will be struggle-ish, others will be bougie. All the time, it’ll be revealing.
What’s your earliest memory of money?
My dad passed away from a road accident when I was 11, and I remember my mum received the call at home. After the call ended, she told me, “Your father is dead,” then she rushed into her room to pack the ₦20k cash in the drawer, my dad’s gold necklace and the car documents.
She hid everything under the bed in the children’s room before she sat down and broke down into tears. It was so odd; I will never forget it.
I’m sorry about your dad. Did your mum explain why she did that?
I asked her a few months after my dad’s death, and she said, “Person wey dey cry dey see road.” Before allowing the grief to consume her, she made sure to secure the valuables my dad’s siblings would likely steal when they came around. That’s the kind of woman my mum was — always planning ahead.
The experience taught me that while money itself can be a safety net, planning for eventualities makes all the difference. True to my mum’s expectations, my dad’s siblings stylishly asked about the car during the funeral preparations, and my mum lied that she didn’t know where my dad kept it.
My mum sold that car and used the money to start a fabric business. Part of it also went into paying for her kids’ — me and my younger sibling — school fees that year. So, technically, the car was a safety net, but if my mum hadn’t planned properly, she’d have lost it.
I see. How did your dad’s passing impact the home’s finances?
My dad was the breadwinner, so my mum started a business to fill the gap. Thankfully, we lived in our own house. However, we had to make a few changes.
We went from getting new Easter, Christmas and New Year clothes to just getting Christmas’. My daily lunch allowance stopped, and I started taking home-cooked food to school. Then there were the school excursions I missed because my mum didn’t have money to pay. However, we didn’t starve or lack necessities.
I graduated from secondary school in 2012 but didn’t pass JAMB on the first try, so I decided to work instead.
What did you do?
I found a job teaching a primary one class mathematics, and the school paid me ₦8k/month.
After I received my salary, I gave it all to my mum, who returned ₦3k for me to hold. The school was within walking distance of our house, so my only expenses were airtime and snacks.
I was at the job for about 8 months and resigned to prepare for JAMB in 2013. Unfortunately, I failed again, so I went job-hunting. My next job was as a server and occasional dishwasher at a restaurant/bar, and I was paid ₦18k/month. But I only did that for three months. My mum didn’t like that I was around so many men and kept dreaming that I’d fall pregnant.
Tell me you have a Nigerian mother without telling me
I returned to the same school I had taught at before. The stingy headmistress didn’t even increase my salary; she still put me on ₦8k. I absolutely hated it.
I finally passed JAMB in 2014, but getting uni admission was another wahala. Although I passed post-UTME, my name didn’t appear on the admissions list. At that point, I was ready to forget about school, but my mum convinced me to try the polytechnic, so I did.
Between 2014 and 2016, during my OND programme, I had stints doing ushering and make-up gigs to augment my ₦10k/month allowance.
I use “make-up gigs” loosely because I’m sure I did rubbish on people’s faces. I just felt I could do it, and my schoolmates obviously thought so too. The make-up and ushering gigs brought me an extra ₦5k/week.
That’s ₦20k a month, plus your ₦10k allowance. Was that good money at the time?
Oh, it was. My polytechnic was in a small town, and almost everything was cheap. I used to buy two shawarmas for ₦500 at least once a week, and I still had enough to save.
I had two savings methods: the bank and ajo contributions. I contributed ₦5k weekly to the ajo, and any extra income I had after school expenses went to my bank account. I joined the ajo in late 2015 because I wanted to give my mum a lump sum to support her business the following year as a thank-you for all her sacrifices.
Ironically, my mum passed away in 2016, two weeks after I gave her the ₦120k I gathered.
Oh my. I’m so sorry
Thank you. It was a tough period for me. I wallowed in depression for a while until I remembered I was now primarily responsible for my younger sister, who was still in secondary school. I had to figure things out.
I reasoned that the surest way to make money was to learn handiwork. At least, if finding jobs ever proved difficult, I could rely on the work of my hands. So, I became a hairdresser’s apprentice. It cost me ₦60k to learn the business for three months.
At the same time, I was chasing my project supervisor in school to clear my project and complete my clearance. Also, I was still ushering on the weekends to get feeding money and care for my sister. It was a lot.
In 2017, I got an internship at a manufacturing company. My role was quality control assistant, and they paid me ₦40k/month. I worked there for a year and made extra income from doing people’s hair and makeup. I was also aggressively saving because I planned to return to school for my HND.
By the end of my internship, I’d saved almost ₦400k. It was more than enough for me to return to school.
Did you continue the hair and makeup gigs in school?
Yes, I did. In 2018, I bought a container kiosk for ₦120k and set up shop in front of a friend’s house, which was close to the main market. This helped expand my customer base to include more than just my classmates.
My income also increased; I often made up to ₦15k/week. I honestly spent more time in my shop than in class during my HND days. At this point, my money essentially went into paying my school fees, my ₦80k/year hostel rent, and sending money to my sister.
Speaking of my sister, she got into uni in 2018, and I paid part of her fees — our uncle paid most of it. Thankfully, she’s also a hustler and hardly asks for upkeep money.
When the lockdown happened in 2020, no one went out anymore, and I couldn’t get clients. I had savings but didn’t want to rely solely on them, so I started looking for other income opportunities.
What did you find?
Online courses were all the rage, so I took some on social media management and virtual assistance.
Around September 2020, I got a job managing an actress’ Instagram account; a friend referred me. The actress and I agreed on ₦70k, but she paid me ₦40k at the end of the month. Then, she started telling me stories about how she hadn’t gotten any acting gigs for months. I just quietly signed out of her page and left. If she had issues finding work, she shouldn’t have been employing people.
After that experience, I didn’t look for a job again. Instead, I paid a friend ₦35k to teach me how to fix eyelash extensions and acrylic nails. It cost another ₦80k to get the tools I needed to start. Parties had started to reopen, and I figured it’d be better for me to gather as many skills as possible. There’s no one way to make money. At least, even if someone didn’t need braids, they’d need good-looking nail sets.
True that
I finished my HND program in 2021 and sold my kiosk because I needed to move to another city for NYSC.
My PPA was at a government agency, which I barely showed up at. My own was to collect the ₦33k stipend and focus on my business.
At first, I offered my services from my apartment. I cleared my savings for a ₦250k/year room and parlour apartment, and converted the parlour to a mini studio. I bought a ring light and fan from a declutter page, and that’s all I needed to start. I didn’t get a lash bed until months later.
My neighbours used to call me “Beauty Empire” because I did everything from hairdressing to fixing acrylic nails. My rates were also quite cheap. I charged ₦3k for braids and ₦5k each for makeup and nails. Lash extensions cost anywhere from ₦5k to ₦10k, depending on the set. I made between ₦100k – ₦180k on most months, minus my NYSC stipend.
Not bad
The money wasn’t bad, but I was working myself to the bone. I could stand for five hours braiding hair and then bend for the next hour to fix someone’s nails. I would be sick but still book clients because I needed to make as much money as possible. Sometimes I wouldn’t eat.
It wasn’t until a health scare in 2022 that I learned to calm down. I was braiding someone’s hair when I fainted on them. I was hospitalised for a week, and the doctor said something about the cause being low blood sugar and pressure. In summary, I needed to rest and remember to eat.
Since 2022, I’ve focused only on lash extensions and acrylic nails. I still offer hairdressing services occasionally, but only to close friends.
What’s your income like these days?
I’ve since updated my rates, so around ₦700k/month on average.
Lash sets now cost between ₦12k – ₦38k depending on the type, and I get at least four clients daily. Nail sets cost between ₦20k – ₦50k, also depending on design and add-ons. I typically get at least two clients for those daily.
I also got a new studio space in 2024. The annual rent is ₦500k, but it cost me a total of ₦1.2m (rent inclusive) to set up the space. I’m still making gradual design improvements because I post my work a lot on social media. I believe the more aesthetically pleasing my space is, the more I can charge for my services. So, I’m basically investing in myself.
I feel you. Has the income growth come with any lifestyle changes?
Besides having more money to put back into my business, my lifestyle hasn’t changed much. Sometimes, I splurge on clothes and try out new restaurants, but I’m still a heavy saver. I don’t have many financial responsibilities, so at least 40% of my income goes into my savings.
My investment portfolio is currently worth ₦3m, divided equally between a money market account and a fintech savings app. I started using the money market account in January 2025 because I read about someone who gets up to ₦400k in monthly dividends. As soon as I learn everything I can about US stocks later this year, I plan to invest in them too. The only lifestyle change I want is to start making bastard money passively.
I rate it. What does your typical month in expenses look like?
What do you imagine the next few years will look like for you?
I’m considering ways to expand my business. I want to offer training sessions, but I’ll need a bigger space and employees to scale the way I want. I can’t do that just yet, so I’ll start by taking two or three students. I haven’t worked out the details yet, but I plan to start by May. People are already constantly asking for training opportunities on my social media pages.
Ultimately, I hope that within two years, I’ll have grown the business to the point where I don’t have to show up every day. If I have well-trained assistants, they can handle the day-to-day operations and attend to clients while I think about other business opportunities. Who knows? I could even open more studios in different locations and shock people who think lash technicians aren’t successful.
Wait. People think that?
I sometimes feel like that. An ex-friend used to send me job vacancies once she saw me post pictures of my work on WhatsApp. It was so weird. Like she thought I was jobless. I asked her why she kept sending them, and she was like, “I just want to see you win.”
I didn’t know I was losing. I just blocked her from seeing my status after a while.
Last year, a guy I was in a talking stage with said he wanted a “working woman”. He knew I was a lash tech, so I wondered where that came from. I think most Nigerians like to give impressions of class. Someone can be earning ₦120k, but they might think they’re better than me because they wear suits and work in fine offices. Me, I don’t care. I don’t even see myself working for anybody or hustling a 9-5. That can’t be me. I’m satisfied with what I do.
Is there anything you want right now but can’t afford?
A vacation to Ghana or Cote d’Ivoire. I just want to experience somewhere outside Nigeria. I can actually afford a trip right now, but I don’t want to dip into my savings. Maybe I’ll actively plan to set aside money over three months for a trip by the end of the year.
How would you rate your financial happiness on a scale of 1-10?
7. I’m pretty content with what I’ve achieved so far, and I’m on the right track to steady growth.
If you’re interested in talking about your Naira Life story, this is a good place to start.
The journey to financial freedom is rarely a straight one. For many, it involves many experiments — throwing different things at the wall, hoping one would stick and light a path out of the “trenches”.
Two of the stories in today’s newsletter follow this pattern. On the one hand, there’s a 28-year-old nail and lash technician who has tried just about everything to maximise her income before finally landing on a venture. On the other hand, we have four crypto traders who keep trying their luck with meme coins, hoping to become overnight millionaires. How’s that working out for them?
Let’s get into the stories.
In this letter:
#NairaLife: The Lash Technician Who Isn’t Looking for a 9-5
Love Currency: This Lagos Photographer Isn’t Built for an Indefinite Long-Distance Relationship
Meme Coin Madness: 4 Nigerian Traders on the Wild Profits and Devastating Losses
Ask Aunty M: I Have $2k. What Should I Invest In?
Where The Money At?!
#NairaLife: The Lash Technician Who Isn’t Looking for a 9-5
The 28-year-old nail and lash technician in this #NairaLife might be a jack of all trades, but she’s also a master of all. She’s currently on her most profitable venture yet, and if her plans work out as she hopes, it might be the one that moves her from entrepreneur to multi-business owner.
Let’s Make Money Talks Less Awkward (And Way More Fun!)
Let’s be honest, talking about money is like frying plantain—you start with good intentions, but somehow, it gets tricky. One moment, you’re discussing “splitting the bill,” and the next, things get awkward. But what if money conversations were fun and stress-free? That’s where gomoney’s goPlay Cards come in.
Love Currency: This Lagos Photographer Isn’t Built for an Indefinite Long-Distance Relationship
Jerome* (26) and Patricia* (24) have been together for three years—two of those spent navigating long distance.
For #LoveCurrency, Jerome opens up about how their relationship has shaped his finances and why, despite his love for Patricia, he’s preparing for the possibility of a breakup.
Read the full story
Meme Coin Madness: 4 Nigerian Traders on the Wild Profits and Devastating Losses
Despite having no fundamental value, meme coins have made people overnight millionaires and bankrupted them just as quickly.
We spoke to four Nigerian meme coin traders who have experienced the madness firsthand. From wild profits to crushing losses, here’s what they said.
Read more
Ask Aunty M with Reni
I currently earn ₦390,000 and I have a side hustle that brings in about ₦150k monthly on an average. I currently have $2k savings in Risevest and my savings for the year is estimated to close at ₦2m. I’d like to invest this money. Please could you advise on what to invest in and what platforms to use? – Tee, 26
Hi Tee,
So happy to hear that you’re saving and thinking about investing. Here’s where I would start:
1. Pick your investment platform
– you can use Bamboo, Chaka, Trove to name a few. This will allow you to invest in the US stock market with ease.
2. Define Your Investment Goals – ideally I like to invest for the long term. You need to know your time horizon, the purpose behind investing (growth, stability, etc) and what your risk tolerance is in order to create a solid portfolio.
3. Choose Your Investments – I believe beginners should start by investing in the stock market. Forget crypto, forget forex…the stock market is a great place to start. There are these things called ETFs, exchange traded funds, that hold lots of different companies inside the fund. Start there. A good beginner index is the S&P500. These are 500 of the largest companies in the US and if you purchase a fund that tracks this interest, you will own all 500 of those companies. Some examples are $VOO, $SPY, you can purchase those on your investing app.
4. Purchase & Automate – Investing is not just about buying once and holding forever. Instead, you should purchase and automate the regular purchase of ETFs so that every time you get paid, you’re investing a bit more.
We can’t say we’re about the money and not actually help you find the money.
So we’ve compiled a list of job opportunities for you. Make sure you share this with anyone who might need it because in this community, we look out for each other.
When you catch a partner cheating, you have two options: walk away quietly or make sure they feel the pain ten times worse. While some people choose to ply the higher road, some Nigerians got their pound of flesh from philandering partners.
They open up about the most savage thing they did, and honestly? Some of these will leave you in varying degrees of “God, abeg”.
“I slept with his best friend and made sure he found out”
Some people break up when they find out they’ve been cheated on. Others return the favour, and that’s exactly what *Bimbo, 28, did. She shares:
“My ex cheated on me with someone from his office, and when I confronted him, he acted like it wasn’t a big deal. I was fuming. His best friend had always flirted with me, so I decided to see how far he’d go. Long story short? He didn’t disappoint. I made sure my ex found out the same way I did; through screenshots. He called me screaming and I just let out a long evil laughter. Then, I blocked him.”
“I made sure his side chick dumped him too”
There’s something satisfying about knowing that the person they cheated with no longer wants them either. *Amaka, 28, shares how she made it happen:
“I wasn’t going to fight my ex over a man. Instead, I decided to talk to the babe. I sent her receipts — chats, transfers, and all the romantic nonsense he was telling both of us. At first, she didn’t believe me, but when I told her to ask him a specific question and see how he lied, she called me back in shock. Next thing I knew, she dumped him too. The best part? She and I are still cool.”
“I made sure her best friend helped me heal”
Some people cut ties and move on. *Daniel, 30, decided to heal in a way his ex would never forget.
“When I found out she was cheating, I didn’t confront her,” he shares. “I simply started talking to her best friend. The funny thing is, it wasn’t planned, but she was there for me while I was hurting, and one thing led to another. My ex found out when she saw us on a date and tried to create a scene at the restaurant but I wasn’t having it. I got home to a “we need to talk” text message, and I responded with receipts of her chats with the person she cheated with. She tried to deny it and spent weeks gaslighting me, but I’d already checked out.”
“I started praying against him after we broke up”
Not all acts of revenge are loud and dramatic. Some are taken straight to God’s ears. *Halima, 27, shares:
“I was heartbroken when I found out my ex had been cheating for most of our relationship. At first, I wanted to expose him, but then I realised I didn’t need to stress when I could hand him over to God. Every morning, I prayed: ‘Lord, let his enemies locate him. May every babe he cheats with break his heart. May he know no peace until he repents.’ Last I heard, his life has been in shambles. I didn’t do anything, God did.”
“I stopped her family’s allowance, and they had to beg on her behalf”
Some men forgive and forget. *Kunle, 35, reminded his partner exactly who was doing the heavy financial lifting in the relationship.”
“We were already engaged, so I’d started doing stuff for her family. I used to send her parents money every month and covered some of her siblings’ school fees. When I found out she was still entertaining an ex, I didn’t argue. I simply stopped sending anything. The first month, she thought it was a mistake. By the second month, her mum called. By the third, the whole family stepped in to beg. I let them know their daughter was entertaining another man while spending my money. They apologised on her behalf. I never took her back, though.”
“I told his family he had an STD”
*Esther, 27, was heartbroken when she found out her boyfriend of two years was sleeping around and endangering her health. Before ending their relationship, she gave him a taste of his own medicine.
“I wanted to do something that’ll hurt him so bad,” she recounts. I got this crazy idea from a Nollywood movie and ran with it. I sent his mum a message saying: ‘Please tell your son to get tested before spreading infections.’ His relatives called me immediately, and I didn’t pick up. He was also blowing up my phone, asking what I told his family, but I didn’t respond either. I later found out from his cousin that they dragged him to the hospital the next week and embarrassed him in front of their family doctor. He was clean, but that’s not the point. He will never forget the shame.”
“I put sleeping pills in his food every Monday for a whole month”
*Zainab, 35, didn’t just break up and move on from a cheating ex. She made sure he felt the weight of his actions.
“Every Monday, for a whole month, I crushed sleeping pills into his food. He would eat, get extremely drowsy, and complain as he tried to get to work. He was constantly leaving the house late and missing Monday meetings. By the end of the month, he was convinced it was a spiritual attack because he’d already been served a query at work. I wanted to continue for as long as I could, but I was also concerned about his health, so I stopped. We eventually broke up about four months later.”
Note: While revenge can feel satisfying in the moment, secretly drugging someone is reckless and could have dangerous consequences. We do not condone this in any form
“I reported her to my spiritual guardian”
Some people forgive and move on but not *Ayo, 37. He shares how he handed over his cheating ex to higher powers.
“I felt like a fool when I found out she was cheating. I didn’t want a confrontation because I didn’t even have evidence to begin with. It was just something I knew off my intuition. So, I reported to my spiritual mother. I didn’t give any specific demands about what she should do. I just told her, ‘I really loved this person, and I suspect this is what she did to me’. To be honest, I don’t know if anything was done. All I know is, she’s pushing 35 and still isn’t in a proper relationship. Last I heard, her relationships keep failing. Who knows, maybe my godmother dealt with her, or she can’t keep a relationship because of her cheating.”
Sometimes, love can be messy. If you relate to any of these stories, you should read our Love Life interview, where a Nigerian couple gets candid about how they navigated infidelity in their union.
Valentine’s Day is a big deal—or not, depending on who you ask. But one thing is for sure: your ideal Valentine’s date says a lot about your love life. Plan the perfect date, and we’ll predict whether you’ll be ending 2025 single, dating, married, in a situationship, or cheating.
Don’t take it personally — we just read the signs!
The topic of how young Nigerians navigate romantic relationships with their earnings is a minefield of hot takes. In Love Currency, we get into what relationships across income brackets look like in different cities.
How long have you been with your partner?
Richard and I have been together for one year. We started dating two days before Valentine’s Day 2024.
Wait. How did that happen?
We met after a series of interesting events. I’d just gotten my job and was on my way home when I realised I’d lost my wallet. I was too shy to ask people for money, so I decided to walk home instead. Richard saw me walking and came up beside me to talk to me.
I knew it was the normal “Fine girl, how are you?” levels and thought he was cute, but I wasn’t in the mood. So, I tried to brush him off. But fortunately, Richard was persistent. Soon, I was laughing at his jokes and typing my number into his phone.
I didn’t tell him about my wallet situation, but he stopped a Marwa (tricycle) and paid for my ride home. It felt like fate. That was on February 8. We started dating on February 12.
You’re saying it’s not too late for those looking for love before Valentine’s Day?
It’s not too late o. Richard and I bonded quickly, or maybe I’m just a lover girl. Richard invited me to his house for a home-cooked dinner on Valentine’s Day, and I actually went. It wasn’t exactly the safest thing to do, but Richard was a perfect gentleman.
Since then, we’ve had dinner together at least once every week. It helps us spend time together without breaking the bank. That said, planning for these dinners is tricky because I live with my strict parents, and Richard has a roommate, but we make it work.
What kind of money conversations do you both have?
Pretty much Richard telling me not to spend so much money and me arguing that we only live once. Spending money on the people I love and doing activities together is the best way to create lasting memories. My love language is gift-giving, which involves giving experiences, gifts and money.
People remember how you made them feel, so I like to go all out. Plus, whether we spend money on our loved ones or not, the money will still finish.
But Richard doesn’t exactly see things the same way. He believes in keeping money for the sake of it. To be fair, I earn more than him — he makes ₦80k/month as an admin officer, and I don’t have financial responsibilities, courtesy of my parents. So, I understand why he’s not as open to spending money as I am. I spend enough for both of us anyway.
Tell me more about how you show your partner love with gifts
I don’t wait for special occasions to buy him things. If I see something I think he’ll like, I get them. This usually happens twice a month. I’ve got him clothes, watches, a pair of shoes, and even socks. Sometimes, I send him money randomly — not more than ₦10k at a time, though. For his birthday, I bought him perfumes, a jersey from his football club and a cardigan. It all cost about ₦50k.
Richard tries to reciprocate. For my birthday, he bought me a dress and skincare products. But the gifts aren’t as frequent as mine. I don’t mind; he shows his love in other ways, like the cute notes he writes to me. Plus, I understand he has to be financially responsible. So, it’s not a big deal that he doesn’t give me money or buy me stuff.
Do you both have a budget for dates and other romance stuff?
Not really. We have dinners weekly at Richard’s place, and he cooks the food. Any other activity we participate in happens because I insist on it, and I typically pay for those. The frequency is maybe once every two months.
I intend to go all out for Valentine’s Day this year, though. It’s like a double celebration, our anniversary and Valentine’s. I don’t know if Richard has anything planned for our anniversary — he says he wants to surprise me — but I have plans of my own.
I’ve given my parents a convincing excuse for the weekend. So, Richard and I can enjoy a two-day staycation in Abuja. We’ll stay in a hotel and visit spots across the city. I estimate it’ll cost ₦300k, and I’ve been saving since October for it.
It’s the focus and planning for me
All that’s left is to convince Richard that heaven won’t fall if we spend that much money. I’m sure I’ll get my way.
How are you both thinking about future plans for your relationship?
We’ve discussed marriage, but it likely won’t happen for a few years — at least until we’re in better financial shape. Richard wants to get a postgraduate degree, hopefully abroad, to improve his income potential.
I need to become proactive about financial planning. My parents are my safety nets right now, but I can’t rely on them forever, so I’ll need to grow up soon. Maybe after this, I’ll sit down and draw up a budget for my expenses so I can start saving gradually.
So, yeah, there’s a lot for both of us to figure out before settling down. But we’re definitely in it together for the long haul.
What’s your ideal financial future as a couple?
I want us to grow our finances so that Richard doesn’t have to worry so much about keeping money and can enjoy himself.
Interested in talking about how money moves in your relationship? If yes, click here.
*Names have been changed for the sake of anonymity.
This look was inspired by Domitila (1996) film and it’s pretty obvious i has fun filming it 
Domitila was a mad hit so im already looking forward to the reboot hitting cinemas April 7th! 
