As another year comes to a close, it’s time to spotlight the trailblazers, innovators, and visionaries who have made indelible marks across various industries in Nigeria. From redefining Afrobeats on the global stage to reshaping the entertainment, film, tech, and creative landscapes, these individuals have not only achieved outstanding feats but have also inspired a generation to dream bigger and push boundaries.
The 49th People of the Year list celebrates the power of creativity, resilience, and innovation. This year’s honorees include artists, entrepreneurs, filmmakers, and industry leaders who embody excellence and continue to elevate Nigeria’s presence on the global map. Join us as we delve into the achievements and impact of these remarkable individuals who have left an enduring legacy in 2024.
Divine Ikubor (Rema)

Mavin superstar Rema has had a successful run since his emergence, achieving record-breaking achievements and touching international feats while amassing incredibly wide listeners across the world. His chart-topping single and global anthem, “Calm Down (remix),” featuring Selena Gomez, surpassing over a billion streams on Spotify, signifies him as an emblem for the new generation.
As the “Prince of Afrobeats,” Rema’s consistency and ingenious artistry in the last three years is undeniably a noteworthy testament that he has more than what it takes to champion Afrobeats to the world. More than a dedicated fan base, Rema’s prominence extends, garnering groundbreaking accomplishments, including ASCAP London Music Awards for Song of the Year, Top Streaming Song for “Calm Down”, and a Trends Award in Brazil. His 2024 released critically acclaimed project “HEIS”–a cultural reset album–was nominated for Best Global Music Album at the 67th Grammy Awards, conferring it as the first African sophomore album to be nominated in that category. Now more than ever, the “Big 4” debate ceases to exist.
Tega Oghenejobo

Tega Oghenejobo is a driving force in the African Entertainment scene and Record Label Mavin, with experience in Marketing, PR, Finance, A&R, Partnerships, International distributors, Operations, and more.
Tega Oghenejobo has played a tremendous role in scaling Mavin Records to its current expansion. His significant input transcended from overseeing marketing campaigns to promote the Mavin superstars and maximize sales to spearheading Partnerships and managing a team of artist managers to Chief Operating Officer and, recently, president of Mavin (Global).
Tega’s effort in over a decade displays in the propulsion and expansion of Africa’s biggest label and powerhouse–home to Afrobeats’ most prominent stars, Rema and Ayra Starr. Mavin, which secured a groundbreaking partnership with Universal Music Group in 2024, has achieved monumental accomplishments such as most streamed debut releases with Rema and Ayra Starr’s debut projects while housing talents like Crayon, Johnny Drille, Magixx, Bayani, Boy Spyce, Lifestyle Teddy, and Andre Vibez.
Olajumoke Olayiwola (Juhmie Cake)

At the intersection of Legal and Artist Management is Olajumoke Olayiwola, fondly known as The Cake.
The practising barrister, entertainment lawyer, music consultant, and talent manager has played a significant role in the rise of some of Afrobeats’ prominent acts, staging herself as one of the music executives trailblazing the industry. Her talent management for P.Priime, Semzi, Ileri (Big Fish), Telz, Gimba, and Godomarr sets her as one of the creative forces in Nigeria. Yet, Olajumoke doubles as a Legal Consultant for Tiwa Savage, one of Nigeria’s most successful female artists.
Also a 2024 American Music Mentorship Programme Participant and General Secretary of Sarz Academy, owned by renowned producer Sarz, Olajumoke Olayiwola is one of the music executives in the industry thrivingly growing talents and building projects that will stand the test of time.
“Cake of Lagos” is a key instrument behind some of Afrobeats’ noteworthy projects, pushing Nigerian music beyond borders and contributing to the ‘Afrobeats to the world’ movement.
Praise Onyeagwalam (Director Pink)

Professionally known as Director Pink, Praise Onyeagwalam is one of the creative minds behind music video direction, cinematography, and Filmmaking in Nigeria. The award-winning Filmmaker and Editor is changing the game of video direction and filmmaking with her emotive videos, weaving storytelling and colours.
Heading her Film Company, Pinkline Films, Director Pink outshines as a video director, creating and shooting compelling and exceptional videos for some of the biggest Nigerian artists and personalities. Notable mentions in 2024 include “Do I (Remix)” by Phyno ft Burna Boy, “Mma” by Chike, “Adenuga” by Joeboy ft Qing Madi, “Men Are Crazy” by Simi ft Tiwa Savage and “Everybody Loves Christmas” by Funke Akindele. The creative extraordinaire received nominations for The Future Awards Africa, clinching the Prize For Film Nominee 2024, and notably the Best African Performance for “Tomorrow” by Yemi Alade at the 67th Grammy Awards.
As the founder of Pinkline Academy, the Director trains aspiring creatives in the art and craft of filmmaking and cinematography and connects them with industry opportunities.
Eniola Olanrewaju (Korty EO)

Eniola Olanrewaju, popularly known as Korty, has become a leading personality in pop culture through her visual representations laced with distinct and emotive storytelling.
The young creative has established herself as a fast-rising filmmaker and YouTube sensation, inspiring a generation of creatives among GenZs and Millennials in the staple of content creation. With her docuseries “Flow With Korty”, Korty documents and sheds light on the intricate and hidden stories behind the journeys of distinct and relatable trendsetters from Africa. This series has covered stories about personalities, including Tems, Asa, Rema, Black Sherif, Victor Osimhen, and Slawn. Her other show, “Love or Lies”, immerses love enthusiasts in a love experiment where she invites singles and sets them on blind dates.
With over 300,000 subscribers and millions of views across her videos, Korty effortlessly stays on top of the minds of young Africans, building a thriving community. Her documentary film for Victoria’s Secret is another testament to her creativity and influence on the global creative industry.
Adeayo Adebiyi

Adeayo Adebiyi thrives as one of Nigeria’s leading and most influential music journalists. The Senior Music Reporter at one of Nigeria’s prominent media houses, Pulse, is a prominent personality in Nigeria’s entertainment scene, documenting and crafting stories from Nigeria’s entertainment industry and Africa. Adeayo’s unfiltered yet eloquent writings, including in-depth insights into the music scene and album reviews of successful artistes like Wizkid, Tems, Fireboy, Ayra Starr, and Rema, continue to impact the development and propulsion of Afrobeats, excelling as a noteworthy model for young Nigerians in the pop culture stratosphere.
His in-depth insights on Nigerian music extend to his continued driving conversations on the popular Pulse’s “Facts Only” show, where he sheds light on everything related to Nigerian music. On Twitter, Adeayo remains a top voice, taking a bold stance on music conversations however he deems fit.
Mohammed Adekunle (Gilmore)

Content creation witnessed another dimension with the advent of the fastest-growing comic creator, Mohammed Adekunle, popularly known as Gilmore. While skit-making in Nigeria continues to receive an influx of acts, Gilmore is carving a niche for himself, telling stories with relatable everyday experiences for the Nigerian audience.
His latest production and debut directorial, “The Struggles of Gilmore,” has amassed thousands of views and features popular skit makers Layi Wasabi and Broda Shaggi. It highlights the challenges and triumphs of everyday life.
Gilmore’s unique way of shedding light on the experiences of the average Nigerian, touching topics ranging from secondary and university life to transportation, parents’ relationships, fashion trends, social issues, and more while infusing humour, is one of the reasons why he continues to win the attention of Nigerians. In fact, it’s a crime not to see a Gilmore skit and not relate. But amidst the stories he tells from ordeals, the average Nigerian, Gilmore, continues to put a smile on their faces.
Jade Osiberu

Jade Osiberu maintains her legacy as one of Nollywood’s prominent personalities, reshaping the film industry.
The filmmaker, writer, and producer has mastered the art of compellingly telling stories from Nigeria while connecting to both local and international audiences.
Jade Osiberu’s passion and dedication for telling stories from Nigeria is reflected in her production and movie releases, where she explores themes of societal issues and situations. In 2023, she directed the first African Original on Prime Video, Gangs of Lagos—an expository into the dynamics of politics and street rivalry—contributing to bringing Nigerian stories to the international stage. Her December released romantic comedy “Christmas in Lagos” starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Wale Ojo, Shaffy Bello, Shalom C. Obiago, Teniola Aladese, Ayra Starr, and Adekunle Gold, amongst others, brings to the limelight the vibrant backdrop of Lagos during Christmas. Jade Osiberu’s innovative approach and dedication to storytelling continue to influence and inspire the Nigerian film industry.
Tosin Eniolorunda

Software Engineer and Entrepreneur Tosin Eniolorunda, co-founder and CEO of Moniepoint Inc., is helming one of the fastest-growing companies in Africa’s Fintech landscape. Moniepoint Inc. serves as a digital payment and banking platform for millions of African users.
Tosin Eniolorunda’s significant role in the Nigerian financial landscape and tech sector is evidently displayed in his role as CEO for Moniepoint, which reportedly processes over 800 million transactions monthly, with a total value exceeding $17 billion. Moniepoint’s milestones extend, where in October 2024, Moniepoint secured $110 million in a Series C funding round led by Development Partners International, with participation from investors including Google’s Africa Investment Fund, Verod Capital, and Lightrock. This investment didn’t just expand but elevated Moniepoint’s valuation beyond $1 billion, granting it “unicorn” status.
Tunde Onakoya

Constantly and passionately at the forefront of driving social change is the distinguished Chess player, coach and philanthropist Tunde Onakoya. Through his passion project and long-life mission, “Chess in Slums”, Tunde is committed to empowering underprivileged children through the art of chess. As the initiative’s founder and convener, the Ikorodu-bred has dedicated himself to this cause, transforming lives by providing education and mentorship to children from slums in Lagos, including Majidun (Ikorodu), Makoko and Oshodi.
To further empower this cause, on April 20, 2024, in New York City, Tunde set a Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess game, playing continuously for over 60 hours, garnering the attention and support of Nigerians at home and in New York, as well as former Vice President Yemi Osibajo. But Tunde’s vision surpassed being a Guinness Record breaker, as he aimed to raise $1 Million for children in Africa without access to quality education.
Over and over again, Tunde remains a testament to his famous quote, “It is possible to do great things from small places.”
Oyinkansola Aderibigbe (Ayra Starr)

Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, professionally known as Ayra Starr, has consistently proven to be a bundle of hard work and remarkable talent. The Mavin Records signee has rapidly risen to global stardom, contributing to the ‘Afrobeats to the world’ movement, selling out shows across the world, and delivering hits back to back while achieving several milestones.
In 2024, the singer-songwriter released her sophomore album, “The Year I Turned 21,” a critically acclaimed project featuring prominent acts like Asake, Seyi Vibez, Giveon, and Coco Jones. The album reflects Ayra’s journey and personal growth. It became one of the most streamed albums, garnering over 800 million streams, and stamped her as the most streamed female Nigerian artiste in 2024.
Ayra’s notable milestones include four nominations at the 2024 MTV EMAs: Best African Act, Best Push, Best Afrobeats, and Best New Artist. ‘Sabi Girl’ also won the Best Female Artist award at the 2024 African Entertainment Awards USA (AEAUSA), making her a global voice in the music scene.
Victor Okpala

Victor Okpala is a prominent figure in the media scene, with credible experiences in entrepreneurship, Tech, journalism, music marketing, and communications. He thrives as the Artist and Label Partnerships Manager for Spotify, where he spearheads and executes groundbreaking collaborations and projects between Spotify and top players in West Africa.
Victor has received notable recognitions, from The Future Awards for Prize For Intrapreneurship Nomination 2023 to the Billboard recognition as one of the gatekeepers in Africa’s entertainment ecosystem. Also a TEDx Speaker, Victor delivered a noteworthy TED talk in 2023 at the University of Leeds, “Afrobeats and a New Lens on Africa,” exploring Afrobeats’ efforts to reshape Africa’s global image and break stereotypes with its massive growth and international impact.
As the founder and CEO of NABSolute Media, a communications agency built to cater for the music and creative industry, Victor has managed projects for Runtown, Reekado Banks, Red Bull, Livespot, Gidi Fest, Seyi Shay, Skales, Dare Art Alade, and K1 De Ultimate.
Tomide Marv

Sitting at the intersection of arts and music is Marvelous Akintomide, also known as Tomide Marv. Tomide Marv excels as one of the most profound writers and eminent players in pop culture journalism. The author and culture writer at Powerhouse Media, Zikoko, owned by Big Cabal, has mastered crafting stories and documenting events and narratives within the pop culture scene.
He has covered several stories on the Nigerian entertainment industry, profiling significant personalities, reviewing projects and interviewing successful acts. His work range has covered pieces on Mr. Ibu, Mohbad, Pheelz, Wizkid, Rema, Reminisce, Ayra Starr, Tems and Ice Prince. A testament to his extensive works includes the publication featured in the Punch Newspaper, “Nigerian music industry flourishes worldwide, struggles at home”, co-written by himself and Dolapo Amusat.
Isaac Olayiwola (Layi Wasabi)

The comedy Skit scene took another dimension when “D Law” stormed the scene. Isaac Olayiwola, popularly called Layi Wasabi, emerged and has maintained his stance as one of the fastest-growing comedy skit-makers and content creators. His unique brand of humour and distinct storytelling has gained significant attention and amassed millions of followers across social media. In his infamous comical characters as “D Law” and marketer of “GNCC”, Layi addresses social issues, satirizing aspects of Nigerian culture and everyday life. His comedy skits have gained millions of traction online.
Layi’s versatility extends, as he has appeared in Nollywood movies like “Aníkúlápó,” “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” and “Adire.” He has won notable awards, including the Best Content Creator award at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Orire Alenshiloye

Orire Alenshiloye is one of the creative forces trailblazing the Nigerian fashion industry of today. The brain behind “Oríré”, a contemporary fashion brand committed to celebrating artistic femininity, artisanal craftsmanship, and sustainable production practices. With Oríré, she creates collections emphasizing quality and sustainability while utilizing eco-friendly fabrics. Her passion for women’s empowerment and sustainable practices is a driving force behind her brand’s ethos.
Her collections have been worn by prominent personalities, including Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, during a Women in Leadership panel, tremendously boosting the brand’s international profile. Orire has also been featured in esteemed publications like Vogue.
Oyindamola ‘Slty’ Bamidele

Oyindamola ‘Slty’ Bamidele is an excellent creative whose talent, passion and grit have propelled him to become a style icon within the Nigerian fashion industry. The creative director, fashion stylist and talent manager is an exemplary figure weaving fashion elements, styles and patterns to transform looks and striking outfits into iconic statements. Slty’s creative prowess is evident in his projects with prominent Nigerian acts, including Fola, Ruger, Amaeya, Joeboy, DJ James, BNXN, Blaqbonez, and Crayon. His portfolio stretches beyond styling music videos for artists, as he has also worked with Smirnoff Nigeria for the #WeDoWe commercial under the umbrella of The Style Infidel Studios.
Slty’s growth in the Nigerian fashion scene has put him at the forefront, influencing and breeding a myriad of aspiring stylists.
Chibuzor Iwobi (Chiby)

Chibuzor Iwobi, popularly known as Chiby, is an eminent figure in the nightlife and entertainment scene. He redefines and curates nightlife experiences, especially in Lagos. Chiby is a visionary events manager, lifestyle influencer, and community manager whose reputation precedes him. His dedication and dynamic approach to curating memorable event experiences have earned him the title “King of Nightlife.”
In his commitment and passion to keep people entertained, Chiby influences the industry as the founder of The ChibyVerse—an agency revered for its events curation and booking, entertainment consultation, and promotions. Using The ChibyVerse, Chiby dominates the nightlife scene, creating the most social, vibrant or high-profile parties and raves, including Joeboy’s The Lavida Experience, South Socials and After Dark Friday with Chiby at Hardrock Café.
Chiby was conferred with the Nightlife Media of the Year for his notable efforts and accomplishments at the Diamond Recognition Awards 2024.
Wale Oloworekende

Among the pop culture journalists and writers spreading the gospel of the Nigerian entertainment space is Wale Oloworekende, the journalist behind some of the best publications online. Over the years, his work has been featured on massive media platforms such as Complex, OkayAfrica, The Republic, Dazed Digital, and many more.
In 2024, Wale Oloworekende worked on an Apple Music editorial titled “The Story of Afrobeats in 20 Songs,” which accurately tells the story of the early days of Afrobeats and Nigerian music and how the sound of Nigeria took over the world. Wale Oloworekende’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his insightful analysis and engaging writing style, has established him as a respected voice in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Uzoamaka Aniunoh

Uzoamaka Aniunoh is one of Nigeria’s finest actresses, writers, and directors. She has played multiple roles and characters we have seen on our TV screens, from the MTV Shuga series to numerous Nollywood movies.
In 2024, she delivered impressive performances in films such as “The Weekend,” which ranked 49th Street’s Top Movie of 2024, and “With Difficulty Comes Ease,” which won three awards at the annual Film Mischief. That year, Uzoamaka Aniunoh was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the AMAA and Best of Nollywood Awards for her performance in “The Weekend.”
Her work, talent, and performances continue to speak.
Korede Azeez

In the Nigerian film industry, there are exceptional personalities like Korede Azeez who are dedicated to telling the story of Africans, weaving science fiction, folklore, and faith. Korede Azeez is a phenomenal writer and director known for unique storytelling and exploring the Afrofuturist lens to address issues of identity, freedom, and female agency. Korede’s work is evident in notable films, including: “African Folktales Reimagined” and “It Blooms in June”. In 2024, she wore different hats when she co-produced, directed, wrote and edited the movie “With Difficulty Comes Ease”–a film centring on the themes of widowhood and resilience— which bagged three awards at the annual Film Mischief.
Abiodun Oladokun

Abiodun Oladokun is a visionary figure in the Nigerian electronic dance music (EDM) scene. He is the driving force behind Ile Ijo, a unique and innovative platform designed to foster a vibrant and inclusive community for dance music enthusiasts. Ile Ijo serves as a dedicated space where individuals can immerse themselves in the captivating world of Afro-dance sounds, experiencing the fusion of diverse musical styles and cultural influences.
Through Ile Ijo, Oladokun is not only introducing new audiences to the exciting realm of Afro-dance music but also cultivating a strong sense of community among its passionate followers. In 2024, Oladokun further solidified his expertise in Afro-house music by securing a residency on Oroko Radio with his acclaimed show “MELT.” This significant achievement garnered him well-deserved recognition, culminating in his inclusion in The Blacklist 2024 West Africa, a prestigious initiative spearheaded by GUAP & NATIVE that celebrates and honours exceptional Black creatives across various disciplines.
Ademola Lookman

Ademola Lookman emerged as a footballing sensation in 2024, captivating audiences worldwide with his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to the sport. Representing both Atalanta and the Nigerian national team, Lookman consistently demonstrated his remarkable talent on the pitch. In a defining moment of his career, Lookman led his team to a historic victory, securing a hat-trick that solidified his status as a superstar in the world of football.
This outstanding performance earned him a well-deserved nomination for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, a testament to his exceptional talent and global recognition. Furthermore, Lookman was honoured with the esteemed award title of Best African Player of the Year at the CAF Awards, solidifying his position as one of the most influential and celebrated footballers in Africa.
Llona

Micheal Attah, known professionally as Llona, emerged as a powerful voice in the Nigerian music scene in 2024. His debut album, Homeless, a critically acclaimed masterpiece, captivated audiences across West Africa with its profound storytelling and mesmerizing melodies. Llona’s unique blend of musicality and lyrical depth resonated deeply with both young and old listeners, as he authentically shared stories that reflected their own experiences and emotions.
The album featured several standout tracks, including the heartfelt “Can’t Breathe” and the introspective “Another Day,” which further solidified Llona’s position as a rising star in the Nigerian music industry. The impact of his debut album was undeniable, as it garnered widespread acclaim and was ultimately featured on the prestigious 49th Street Best Albums of 2024 list.
Wonu Osikoya

Wonu Osikoya, a prominent figure in the Nigerian music and media landscape, played a crucial role in shedding light on the intricate workings of the Afrobeats music industry in 2024. She spearheaded the creation of “Grime, Glory & Afropop,” a highly insightful and thought-provoking documentary that delves deep into the complexities of the Afrobeats music business. This groundbreaking documentary provides invaluable knowledge and information, offering a unique behind-the-scenes perspective from key players and industry insiders such as Bizzle Osikoya, Osaige Osarenkhoe, and Asa Asika. Through “Grime, Glory & Afropop,” Osikoya has made a significant contribution to understanding the evolution and impact of Afrobeats music on a global scale.
Asherkine

Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo, better known as Asherkine, emerged as a prominent social figure in 2024, leveraging the power of digital platforms to make a positive impact on society. As a successful content creator and YouTuber, Asherkine has amassed a significant following, utilizing his platform to champion philanthropic endeavours and inspire positive change. Deeply committed to social justice and community development, Asherkine actively engaged in various initiatives to improve the lives of others. In 2024, his philanthropic efforts included the commendable act of donating a borehole to a community in Jos, providing much-needed access to clean water. Furthermore, Asherkine demonstrated his dedication to education by extending support to Nigerian students, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation.
Moyo Onipede

Moyo Onipede stands as one of the most creative forces in the execution of live events and music concerts. This talented concert project manager has brought to life numerous brilliant shows for a diverse range of artists, many of which we have witnessed. From meticulous floor management and precise stage management to seamless backstage engineering and impeccable sound, her dedication and execution are truly top-notch.
Moyo’s impressive portfolio showcases her versatility and expertise. She has successfully managed a wide array of events, ranging from CKay’s engaging university tour to the high-energy Mavins University Tour. Notably, she played a crucial role in the immensely popular Bella Shmurda’s Tension Rave in Ibadan, including the record-breaking 16,000-ticket sell-out edition in 2024. Furthermore, she contributed significantly to the success of Dapper’s Trench Fest in Ibadan.
With such a remarkable track record, Moyo Onipede has undeniably emerged as a driving force in the burgeoning live shows scene in Nigeria. Her innovative approach, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to excellence have consistently delivered unforgettable experiences for both artists and audiences.
Chigozie Obi

Chigozie Obi is a visual artist whose work explores the multifaceted experiences of women in society. Drawing inspiration from her personal life and the shared realities of womanhood, her art delves into themes of identity, empowerment, and self-discovery.
A recipient of the 2021 Access Bank ART X Prize, Obi has showcased her talent through various exhibitions. Her work includes commissioned illustrations for “Fifteen Colonial Thefts: A Guide to Looted African Heritage Museum,” where her art brought historical narratives to life. Exhibitions like “Yinka” at Yenwa Gallery and “Conversation With My Therapist” at Windsor Gellery have garnered critical acclaim for their honest and insightful portrayals of the female experience.
Beyond her artistic practice, Obi actively mentors women, hosting workshops at Yenwa Gallery to foster a supportive and inclusive environment within the art community. Chigozie Obi’s art serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of creativity and the importance of amplifying diverse female voices.
Tolu Daniels

Tolu Daniels stands out as a prominent figure in the Nigerian music industry, particularly excelling in the role of A&R. His impressive track record includes contributions to some of the most critically acclaimed albums of recent years. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the creation of Llona’s acclaimed 2024 album, “Homeless,” and curated the impactful “Ejoya’s Class of 22” compilation.
Throughout his career as an A&R, Daniels has significantly contributed to the growth and success of the music collective KVLT. He further demonstrates his industry leadership as the Head of Music at Ejoya, a prominent platform in the Nigerian music scene.
Beyond his A&R expertise, Tolu Daniels is a dynamic and engaging event host. In 2024, he captivated audiences with his energetic presence at numerous shows, including “Chiby Verse” and “Our Land,” among others. His multifaceted talents solidify his position as a key player in shaping and elevating the Nigerian music landscape.
Fola David

Fola David is a remarkable individual who seamlessly blends the precision of medicine with the vibrant expressiveness of art. This medical doctor is a talented artist and speed painter whose work has the power to tell captivating stories.
In 2024, David achieved the Guinness World Record for creating the largest painting in the world by an individual. He has also used his art to honour prominent figures, such as Nigerian singer-songwriter Onyeka Onwenu MFR, through live painting sessions.
David’s artistic journey includes a live painting performance at the Inaugural Ball of the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, where he presented his artwork to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Deji Osikoya

A versatile engine in the Nigerian creative industry, Deji Osikoya boasts a diverse portfolio. He excels as a storyteller, hosts some of the most sought-after events in Nigeria, and graces our screens with his acting talents in notable shows like “Skinny Girl In Transit.” His smooth voice lends itself perfectly to voiceover sessions, adding another dimension to his creative repertoire. Beyond these, he is also the host of the popular “With An S” podcast.
In 2024, Deji Osikoya further expanded his creative horizons. He featured in the short film titled “Chapter X” by Mavins Film and hosted a variety of events, including Big Cabal’s Welcome Mixer for Moonshot and the “Laugh Therapy” show, among others.
Ada Ajegbo

The engine behind Crowdr, the organization that plays the role of linking nonprofits, volunteers, and donors who are deeply committed to creating positive changes in their community, is Ada Ajegbo.
Ada Ajegbo, who is deeply rooted in community building and helping people in society, has handled multiple successful projects over the years through her platform Crowdfund, such as the Beauty Hut Africa raise for survivors of sexual and domestic violence, the Crowdr Clothing Drive, support to the Lagos Chapter of AIESEC with a blood drive, and raised 1 million naira for education, health, small businesses, among many others.
Ayomide Oriowo

Deeply interested in data, music, and tech overall, Ayomide Oriowo took his passion further to be a leader in a sector in Nigeria. Using his data skills, he co-founded Turntable Charts, a platform for music chart publication, which provides a credible charting system for the Nigerian music industry. Turntable Charts provides detailed charts and streams of music in Nigeria, and provides details of the most streamed artists, ranking popular songs through complete data. In 2024, Ayomide Oriowo spoke at the African Summit, joined the Recording Academy Class of 2024 as a professional member, and got nominated for Musically Next.
Felix Ike

Co-founder of one of the biggest fintech organizations in Nigeria, Felix Ike is one of the great minds behind the engine of Moniepoint, Africa’s all-in-one financial ecosystem, which has helped millions of businesses and individuals get access to easy payment, banking, credit, and most notably powering most of Nigeria’s point-of-sale transactions. In 2024, under Felix Ike and his team, Moniepoint became valued at 1 billion dollars in a new funding round led by DPI, making it a unicorn.
Fisayo Soyombo

One of the vibrant investigative journalists in Nigeria, known for his work as an undercover reporter in exposing the deeds affecting the community, he is also the founder of FIJ, which stands for the Foundation for Investigative Journalism. Amongst all his investigations from undercover work exposing corruption in the Nigerian criminal justice system, bribery investigations, in 2024, Fisayo Soyombo’s most notable work was conducted, which involved the investigation of the Nigerian army’s involvement in illegal oil bunkering, which became a huge.
Fuad Lawal

Committed to documenting and preserving history, Fuad Lawal has taken on the mantle to preserve and make Nigeria’s old newspapers accessible to everyone in the digital age. He does this through his organization, Archiving.ng, an artificial intelligence (AI) startup specializing in digitizing old Nigerian newspapers, dating back as far as the 1960s.
Fuad Lawal, who deeply believes in the past connecting to the present, identified the need to make past information from Nigeria accessible. This is the main goal he has achieved through Archiving.ng. According to Faud Lawal, the company has scanned over 4,000 newspapers, totalling 50,000 pages, covering the two decades from 1994 to 2010. Additionally, they have raised over $37,000 in funding since 2020.
Ifeoluwa Falola

Ifeoluwa Falola is a multifaceted journalist, interviewer, and writer deeply dedicated to documenting and celebrating African culture. His work shines a light on the vibrant tapestry of the continent, exploring its rich history, contemporary trends, and the individuals who are shaping its narrative.
Through his insightful interviews and compelling written pieces, Ifeoluwa has consistently brought the voices and stories of African artists to the forefront. He has engaged in insightful conversations with a diverse range of talents, including the trailblazing rapper Nasty C, the soulful singer-songwriter Joeboy, and the legendary Wande Coal, among many others. These conversations delve beyond surface-level discussions, exploring the artists’ creative processes, inspirations, and the social and cultural contexts that inform their music.
Ifeoluwa Falola’s work is not merely about documenting; it’s about amplifying and celebrating the unique and diverse voices that make up the African creative landscape.
Rashidat Ajibade

Rashidat Ajibade stands as one of the most promising female footballers in Africa. Having played for FC Robo in Nigeria, Avaldsnes IL in Norway, and FC Minsk in Belarus, Rashidat Ajibade has demonstrated an immersive commitment to the game and shown her talent and skillfulness on the field. She also represents her homeland team, Nigeria’s Super Falcons, the team that was awarded the prestigious title at the 2024 CAF Awards. Currently, she plays as a forward for the Spanish Liga F club Atlético Madrid.
Prince Akpa

Prince Akpa specializes in creating visually aesthetic products and making videos that tell stories and are pleasing to the eyes. In 2024, his work spanned across major projects such as editing for Fave’s EP “Dutty Love” visualizer, colouring for the My Food by Hilda commercial, editing and colour grading for Simi’s “Know You II” off her album “Lost and Found.” He edited Muyeez’s “Matter” Remix music video. Alongside his visual skills, he also dabbled into audio production with credits on Ravington’s “3AM,” off the project “Tranquil.”
Chiamaka Nnandozie

Chiamaka Nnandozie, Nigeria’s professional football goalkeeper for the Super Falcons national team, stands as one of the most popular female goalkeepers in Nigeria with exceptional skills. In 2024, she was named the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year at the 2024 CAF Awards, marking the second consecutive year she has been honoured for her outstanding performance for the Super Falcons and Paris FC.
Aside from being the goalkeeper of the Nigerian female national team, she plays for Paris FC in the Division 1 Feminine.
Jemedafe Caleb

Jemedafe Caleb is one of the leaders building the future of African entertainment through his creativity and his company, KVLT WRLD, a creative agency in the music and entertainment business, which also houses DJ Six7even and Llona.
In 2024, Jemedafe Caleb’s KVLT WRLD got to put out Llona’s critically acclaimed album “Homeless,” which stands as one of the best albums of 2024.
Aside from handling the music business, Jemedafe Caleb also organized and designed some of the best events and shows in 2024, such as the “Even In The Day” series in South Africa, Nigeria, and Ibadan, and “Even in The Park” at Waf Skatepark. Likewise, he also curated and executed a world-class rave for Hennessy.