The Nigerian entertainment industry is a thriving hub of talent, from music to film, sports, and fashion. In 2024, the scene continues to produce trendsetters and influencers, not only in Nigeria but on a global stage. Whether you are a fan of Afrobeats or a Nollywood enthusiast, these ten celebrities have set the tone for what’s hot in Nigerian entertainment.
In this guide, we explore the top ten trending Nigerian celebrities of 2024. We’ll dive into their achievements, their impact, and why they continue to capture the hearts of millions.
1. Davido
Undoubtedly one of the biggest names in African music, Davido (David Adeleke) maintains his relevance and influence in 2024. From dominating the Afrobeats scene to clinching prestigious awards and collaborating with international stars, his success is unmatched. In 2024, Davido was nominated for multiple Grammy awards, a first in his illustrious career.
Beyond his music, Davido’s brand extends into fashion, business, and philanthropy. His charity foundation has contributed millions to various causes in Nigeria, particularly education and healthcare. His social media following remains enormous, with over 28 million Instagram followers, making him one of the most followed African celebrities globally(
2. Wizkid
Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is another Nigerian superstar who continues to push boundaries in 2024. Known for his distinct Afrobeats sound mixed with R&B and dancehall, Wizkid’s global appeal has only grown stronger over the years. His song “Essence” featuring Tems, released in 2020, remains a global anthem and has won numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations.
In 2024, Wizkid continues to tour the world, selling out arenas such as the O2 in London. His collaborations with international stars like Drake and Beyoncé have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in global music. With over 18 million followers on Instagram, Wizkid remains a trendsetter and one of Nigeria’s biggest cultural exports(
3. Burna Boy
Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has consistently been at the forefront of Nigerian music and culture. Burna Boy’s distinctive blend of Afro-fusion, reggae, and dancehall, coupled with socially conscious lyrics, resonates with audiences far and wide. In 2024, Burna Boy continues to top charts with his unique sound, winning international awards and performing at major events worldwide.
His album Twice as Tall, which won a Grammy Award, cemented his status as a global superstar. His 2024 tours and continuous advocacy for African unity through his music have made him a symbol of African excellence(
4. Tiwa Savage
Known as the “Queen of Afrobeats,” Tiwa Savage continues to reign supreme in 2024. Her powerful voice, catchy Afrobeats tracks, and global collaborations have earned her international recognition. Tiwa made history in 2023 by performing at the coronation of King Charles III in London, a testament to her global influence.
Beyond music, Tiwa Savage is an advocate for women’s empowerment and African representation in global music. Her personal brand extends into fashion, beauty, and philanthropy, making her one of the most versatile celebrities in Nigeria today. With over 18 million Instagram followers, she remains a force in the industry(
5. Don Jazzy
Don Jazzy, whose real name is Michael Collins Ajereh, is arguably the most influential record producer in Africa. As the founder of Mavin Records, he has played a significant role in shaping the careers of numerous Nigerian artists, including Rema, Ayra Starr, and Korede Bello. In 2024, Don Jazzy continues to dominate the music production scene, mentoring the next generation of Afrobeats stars.
His philanthropy and business acumen have further endeared him to fans. Don Jazzy’s approachable personality and active social media presence make him a beloved figure, with millions of followers across various platforms(
6. Yemi Alade
Yemi Alade, also known as “Mama Africa,” is celebrated for her energetic performances, multi-lingual singing, and her ability to infuse African culture into her music. In 2024, Yemi remains one of the top Afrobeats artists, with hit songs that resonate across the continent and beyond. Her music, which incorporates multiple African languages, has earned her a massive fan base, particularly in Francophone Africa.
Yemi Alade’s commitment to promoting African unity through her music and her advocacy for women’s rights has kept her in the spotlight. She has over 17 million Instagram followers and continues to tour internationally(
7. Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele, a Nollywood heavyweight, continues to make waves in 2024. Known for her role as “Jenifa” in the popular sitcom Jenifa’s Diary, Funke has carved out a space for herself in the Nigerian film industry. Her recent film Battle on Buka Street broke box office records, becoming Nigeria’s highest-grossing film of all time.
Funke is also a successful producer and director, making her one of the most influential figures in Nollywood. In addition to her film success, Funke ventured into politics, running for office in 2022. Her versatility and widespread influence make her one of the top celebrities in Nigeria(
8. Olamide
Olamide, also known as “Baddo,” has long been a staple in the Nigerian music scene. Known for his street anthems and as the founder of YBNL Nation, Olamide has been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s music culture. In 2024, he continues to influence the industry by nurturing young talents such as Fireboy DML.
Olamide’s ability to connect with the grassroots through his music has earned him the title “Voice of the Streets.” His music, which often incorporates Yoruba and Pidgin English, resonates with millions of Nigerians, ensuring his continued relevance(
9. Genevieve Nnaji
Genevieve Nnaji remains one of the most iconic figures in Nollywood. Her acting career, which began in the late 1990s, has earned her numerous awards and accolades. In 2024, Genevieve continues to make an impact as a director and producer. Her film Lionheart was Nigeria’s first submission to the Oscars and has set a new standard for Nollywood productions.
Apart from her contributions to cinema, Genevieve is an advocate for women’s rights and mental health awareness. She is one of the most respected figures in Nigerian entertainment, known for her grace, poise, and dedication to her craft(
10. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, known affectionately as “Omo Sexy,” is another Nollywood legend who continues to make waves in 2024. Her acting career spans over two decades, and she has featured in over 300 films. Omotola’s influence goes beyond acting; she is also a philanthropist and an advocate for human rights.
Omotola was one of the first Nigerian celebrities to achieve international recognition, and her continued work in both film and activism ensures she remains a relevant figure in 2024. She has been named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People and continues to inspire both within and outside Nigeria(
Conclusion
The Nigerian entertainment industry in 2024 is buzzing with talents that continue to break boundaries, not just in Africa, but across the world. Whether in music, film, or philanthropy, these ten celebrities have made a significant impact, shaping culture, and representing Nigeria on the global stage. Each of them brings something unique to the table, and their influence continues to grow as they redefine what it means to be a star in today’s digital and interconnected world.
