The entertainment industry is experiencing rapid growth in Nigeria, making it the fastest-growing sector not only in the country but also across Africa and globally. Particularly, the Nigerian music industry has been instrumental in creating both millionaires and billionaires for several decades, a trend that continues due to significant investments and promotions by influential figures in Nigerian music, acting, and other entertainment domains.
The global recognition of the Nigerian music scene extends to countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and various nations in Europe, Asia, and other continents. Remarkably, the entertainment industry stands out for its ability to generate more wealth, producing more millionaires and billionaires in Nigeria than any other sector.
This article focuses on providing insights into the highest-paid artists in Nigeria, a compilation led by some of the most accomplished figures in the industry.
Wizkid
Widely known as Wizkid, Balogun Ayodeji has established himself as one of Nigeria’s most successful singer-songwriters and live performers over the past decade. As of now, this Grammy-winning artist claims the top spot on the list of highest-paid artists in Nigeria. Reports suggest that Wizkid commands a minimum fee of $200,000 for each performance. Notably, he received $681,200 for a performance at a royal wedding in Jodhpur, India, in 2018, and was offered $1 million to headline events in Toronto, Canada, and New York, USA.
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Burna Boy
Another Nigerian musical powerhouse, Burna Boy (Damini Ogulu), stands as a globally recognized artist with collaborations with international stars like Ed Sheeran. Burna Boy, also a Grammy winner, commands a minimum fee of $200,000 for international performances and often requests a private jet for his events. Notably, he received a substantial $300,000 for a 45-minute appearance in Cameroon on December 21, 2019.
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Davido
Known by his stage name Davido, David Adeleke secures the third position among the highest-paid Nigerian artists in 2023. A globally recognized figure, Davido charges a minimum of N40 million for performances within Nigeria and at least $150,000 for overseas appearances. Noteworthy is the fact that Davido owns a private jet, and his booking expenses cover the luxury of private jet flights.
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Rema
Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, is a rising star born in 2000, gaining prominence through Mavin Records, owned by Don Jazzy. Rema, who has achieved international acclaim, charges $50,000 for international performances and 10 million naira for events in Nigeria. His rapid ascent in the music scene, both locally and internationally, positions him as one of the highest-paid Nigerian artists in 2023.
It is crucial to acknowledge that these figures are subject to change given the dynamic nature of the music industry, especially for artists experiencing rapid growth and recognition like Rema.
