2024 is that drama-filled reality show that is our dear country Nigeria and didn’t need a script. From economic woes to political tension, it’s been a wild ride. But amidst all the turmoil and complaints here and there, Nigerian pop culture served as our trusty distraction — a much-needed escape from the chaos.
We’re counting down 10 pop culture moments that stole our attention, sparked joy, and started conversations. Here are some of the best moments that defined this stressful year.
The Mavin-UMG deal
In February 2024, an investor and company called TGP exited Mavin Records and sold its majority stake to Universal Music Group (UMG). It was acquired by UMG for nothing less than $125 million in sales price and $150 million to $200 million in valuation. Mavin is still running with Don Jazzy as CEO and Tega Oghenejobo, the newly appointed president and COO. This deal is considered the biggest exit ever in African entertainment.
The veterans’ call-to-glory
In March 2024, after an amputation and a long battle with his health, comedic actor Mr Ibu passed away at 64. In less than 24 hours, another actor, Quadri Oyebamiji (AKA Sisi Quadri) died too.
In less than four months, we lost another Nigerian entertainment — Onyeka Onwenu. According to the confirmed news report, the singer-songwriter and actress slumped and died after a performance at a birthday party.
Big Smoke and Tobacco
Singer Portable and Nigerian-British rapper and producer Skepta released their song “Tony Montana” in March 2024. The surprising fire song became so huge that it peaked at number one on Apple Music Nigeria and Spotify Music Nigeria charts. The music video also bagged a million views in four days. It remains one of the biggest Nigerian songs of 2024.
The incarceration of Mummy of Laygurz
In April 2024, Bobrisky was sentenced to six months in prison after she was found guilty of mutilating the Nigerian currency. The saga provoked outrage from concerned Nigerians due to the unusually fast proceedings of the court and the sentencing.
After Bobrisky got released in August, a rumour that she didn’t spend the whole of her sentence in jail sparked controversy about corruption in the Nigerian prison and justice system. Anyway, Bobrisky came back home to a lot of cheers, money donations and boos from admirers and haters alike.
Wizkid vs Davido
This year, A-listers Wizkid and Davido went from subtly dissing each other to publicly throwing jabs on social media. The singers resurrected their longtime beef in April after unprovoked clapbacks and rants at his fans and colleagues. Since then, months after months, it’s been a dick swing between them. Wizkid resumed the online beef in October, calling Davido “wack” and “talentless.”
Davido’s wedding
It was a #Chivido June 2024. Singer Davido married his longtime girlfriend Chioma in Lagos. The venue was so buzzed, that drivers and commuters were stuck in traffic. From a long list of Nigerian political and business titans to popular entertainers, one could almost mistake it for a concert.
#EndBadGovernance protest
The same spirit that brought out agitated Nigerians during the #EndSARS protest in 2020 hovered in the air again in August 2024. From August 1st to August 10th, thousands of tired and frustrated Nigerians raised #EndBadGovernance placards to protest this poverty-inducing tenure of T-Pain.
Although there were claims that the Nigerian police force had bullied and terrorised citizens into fear during the protests, retreat and submission, it’ll be unforgettable how many publicly cried and denounced T-Pain’s governance.
Toyin Abraham x Funke Akindele apology
Sometime in April 2024, actress Toyin Abraham wrote a long epistle to fellow actress Funke Akindele, stating the reasons for their strong competition, “rivalry” and how they should all live in unity. Funke Akindele replied with “Toyin baby”, two love emojis and signed out with “All the best.”
Sharon Ooja Nwoke ties the knot
When Sharon Ooja-Nwoke got married in June this year, it was major news. The event led the “wedding police” to dig into her husband’s (Ugo Nwoke) previous relationships. Her bridesmaids include Bisola Aiyeola, Jemima Osunde and Ini Dima-Okojie.
John Boyega and Skepta at AFRIFF 2024
The African International Film Festival held in Lagos had big hitters like international actor John Boyega and international rapper Skepta in attendance at its 2024 edition. Skepta’s short film, Tribal Marks, screened at the event. Boyega had a panel conversation about the challenges new actors face and also hinted he’s working on a new project with Genevieve Nnaji.
