By Aderinola Omotosho
Olamide did it again. The Lagos rapper made history last night at OVO Arena Wembley, becoming the first African rapper to sell out the iconic venue. And from the moment he stepped on stage, it was clear why he’s still at the top of his game.
The arena was packed with 12,500 fans, all buzzing with energy, singing every word back to him. From the opening beats, it felt less like a concert and more like a Lagos party had moved to London. Fans were dancing, jumping, and screaming every lyric, proving that Olamide’s music transcends borders.
The night was packed with special appearances. Olamide brought out Asake, Seyi Vibez, Lil Kesh, Joeboy, Pheelz, Lojay, Bella Shmurda, Ashidapo, and Daecolm — a lineup that felt like a masterclass in contemporary Nigerian music. The performance of 99 with Asake and Seyi Vibez was a definite highlight, and seeing his proteges and label mates on stage with him felt like a full-circle moment, celebrating both his career and the talent he’s nurtured.
The setlist was packed, running through about 50 songs from his catalog. Fans got a mix of old-school hits like The Money, Infinity, and Eleda Mi O, as well as newer tracks. Each song hit differently — some tracks sparking nostalgia, others showing how his sound has evolved. The transitions between hits and collabs were seamless, keeping the energy high throughout the night.
Olamide also made the show feel personal. When a fan felt unwell mid-performance, he paused to check on them, a moment that didn’t go unnoticed by the crowd or online. It reminded everyone that this isn’t just about the music — it’s about the people who have supported him through the years.
The crowd and social media were alive with reactions. Fans shared clips of collabs, screams of recognition for old hits, and moments of pure hype as the arena lit up with cheering and dancing. From the first beat to the final encore, it felt like London had caught Lagos fever, and Olamide was leading it all.
Beyond the music, the show highlighted Olamide’s influence in shaping Nigerian music. His proteges, from Lil Kesh to Bella Shmurda, got their moments, showing how he has built a legacy not just as an artist but as a mentor and label boss. Every appearance, every track, every shout-out to his team or the fans underscored how he’s maintained relevance while giving back to the community that made him.
By the end of the night, Olamide had delivered more than a performance. He had created a full-blown celebration of Nigerian music, culture, and the artists who are carrying it forward. The sold-out arena, the collaborations, and the energy left fans buzzing and cemented Olamide’s place not just as a Nigerian icon, but as a global Afrobeats leader.
London had been waiting for a show like this, and Olamide made sure it didn’t disappoint. From start to finish, the night was filled with hits, hype, and pure Lagos energy — a concert that will be remembered by everyone who was there.
