10 Young Nigerian Creatives to Watch Out For in the Coming Years
Explore the up-and-coming creatives you should keep an eye on in the coming years.
Nigeria is a treasure trove of young, burgeoning creative talent, which finds its expression in music, fashion, visual arts, and a distinctive sense of humor. We’ve witnessed the meteoric rise of many of these innovative minds within their respective domains. They harnessed the ever-evolving Nigerian landscape to nurture their creative abilities, transform their skills into lucrative ventures, and share their works with a global audience. Can we proudly proclaim ‘Nigeria to the world’? While we eagerly anticipate the upcoming creative endeavors from Nigerian talents this year, some of these remarkable young creatives have already begun making waves. Therefore, for the purposes of this article, and without any specific ranking, we present 10 Young, Nigerian upcoming creatives to keep a keen eye on in a few years.
SGaWD
SGaWD, the rising Nigerian rapper known for her groundbreaking sound, has defied societal expectations by leaving a promising legal career to pursue her passion for music. With roots in Calabar, Akwa Ibom, and the United States, her diverse upbringing and global experiences have deeply influenced her music, blending traditional Nigerian elements with international flair. Despite facing initial doubts and family disconnection, SGaWD’s authenticity, distinctive branding, and unwavering work ethic have set her apart in the male-dominated Nigerian rap scene. Her recent track “Boy Toy” SGaWD immediately captures listeners’ attention as she fearlessly asserts herself and her desires. From embracing sexuality to celebrating her own dominance. SGaWD’s versatility, stemming from her diverse background, allows her to effortlessly transition between musical styles. She envisions a future as a global brand, expanding her media company and supporting independent female artists while pursuing her passion for cooking and mixology.
SGaWD is a symbol of unapologetic self-expression and resilience, inspiring those who seek to follow their true calling against all odds. Her journey is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s dreams with determination, and she is not just making waves in the music industry but creating a tidal wave of change and empowerment.
Tochibedford
Tochi Bedford is a multifaceted talent, excelling as an engineer, musician, and producer. At just 23 years old, he has already made significant strides in the music industry with three EPs and multiple successful singles to his name. His remarkable sound, characterized by impeccable quality, has drawn the attention of both fans and fellow artists. Notably, Tochi has produced chart-topping records for artists like Cruel Santino, Odunsitheengine, Amaarae, and AYLØ. Beyond music, Tochi also boasts a strong foundation in software engineering. He is a curious individual with a deep interest in understanding the intricacies of the world, both in terms of technical aspects and human behavior. This innate curiosity fuels his creativity and drives him to explore various genres and sounds in his music.
Tochi’s musical journey began in 2015 when he started making music, initially as a casual hobby while working on sounds for video games. Over the years, he developed a passion for music production, transitioning from a novice to an accomplished artist and producer. While he acknowledges that the music industry can be tough and demanding, Tochi finds it simultaneously interesting, particularly when dealing with the business aspects. His approach to time management and organization, which some may consider formal, helps him balance his multifaceted career. Tochi’s evolution from a child with a budding interest in computers and code to a respected producer reflects his adaptability and willingness to explore new avenues, making him a remarkable figure in the music and technology spheres.
Blessing Ewona
Blessing Ewona is a young creative and an embodiment of the transformative cultural renaissance sweeping across Africa in the latter half of the 2010s. In a world saturated with Western cultural hegemony, where global media predominantly focuses on Western affairs, Blessing represents a burgeoning wave of African talent and self-expression. She burst into the skateboarding scene in 2019, encouraged by a chance encounter at the Lagos Women’s Run, and she hasn’t looked back since. While skateboarding has historically been perceived as a radical sport, Blessing defied stereotypes and emerged as a prominent figure in the Nigerian skateboarding community, bravely navigating the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated space. Her Instagram posts documenting her falls and triumphs have garnered a growing fanbase and motivated other aspiring skaters, particularly women, to pursue their passions. She’s not only reshaping the skateboarding landscape in Nigeria but also challenging stereotypes about women’s roles and ambitions in the country.
In a society where women’s professional aspirations are often overshadowed by traditional gender roles, Blessing Ewona stands as a beacon of empowerment. She is part of a new generation of Nigerian women who reject societal norms and carve their paths in various industries. Her skateboarding initiative, Dencity, provides an inclusive space where women and queer individuals can come together
BOLA
Bola, a dynamic and visionary designer is quickly making a name for himself in the world of fashion. His creative prowess came to the forefront when he co-designed the sensational “OLYMPIAD” collection for Ashluxe, showcasing his ability to blend different styles and patterns. Notably, Bola has worked in collaboration with global giants like Nike, demonstrating his versatility and ability to leave an indelible mark on the fashion landscape. His talents have also extended to the realm of music, where he’s been the sought-after designer for renowned artists such as Mayorkun, Ayrastarr, NSG, and more. Bola’s latest triumph, the “BOLAPSD FOREVER” collection, which was released just a few weeks ago, continues to captivate the fashion world. It is available for purchase online via his Instagram page, @bolapsd.frvr, this collection reflects his ability to stay ahead of the curve in the digital age of fashion.
Bola’s journey stands as a testament to the growing influence of Nigerian designers on the global stage. As he continues to craft compelling narratives through his designs and collaborations, Bola’s impact is sure to resonate far beyond the borders of Nigeria, and the world eagerly awaits what he’ll unveil next.
PrinceAkpa
Prince Akpa is a talented and ambitious young filmmaker. As a dedicated Film Director, he has quickly made a name for himself in the industry with his innovative approach to storytelling through the lens. His creative vision transcends borders, as he seamlessly combines his rich Nigerian heritage with a global perspective to craft visually captivating and emotionally resonant narratives. Prince’s work is not only a testament to his technical prowess but also a reflection of his unwavering passion for capturing the essence of life, culture, and human experiences. His unique ability to connect with his subjects and infuse authenticity into every frame has earned him recognition both within and beyond Nigeria, positioning him as a rising star in the world of videography and photography. Prince Akpa has solidified his status as a renowned filmmaker by collaborating with some of Nigeria’s brightest talents in the music industry. His impressive portfolio includes videos for artists like Fave, Ric Hassani, Yarden, and Lojay, where his visual storytelling has breathed life into their music, capturing the essence of their artistry. Furthermore, Prince’s expertise extends beyond the realm of music, as he has lent his creative vision to various brand campaigns. His work in brand advertising demonstrates his ability to seamlessly blend artistic storytelling with commercial goals, resulting in compelling and visually striking videos that leave a lasting impression on the audience. Prince Akpa’s exceptional talent and versatility have made him a sought-after filmmaker in Nigeria and one to look out for in the coming years.
Trill Xoe
Trill Xoe, also known as Trillo, is a highly sought-after producer and A&R for NATIVE Records. He gained widespread recognition for co-producing the hit track “Declan Rice,” which garnered attention from celebrities like Wizkid, Adekunle Gold, and billionaire Tony Elumelu. Trill Xoe’s creative process involves collaboration with other talented artists and producers. He has a strong commitment to synergy and meticulously guides artists to align their vision with his beats. Trill Xoe’s journey into music began during his time in Mauritius, where he balanced university education with music production, eventually releasing projects like “Blood, Sweat and Tears” that showcased his diverse talents. His deep interest in music led him to become a DJ as well, and he has since signed on as an A&R for NATIVE Records, where he continues to shape the urban music landscape with his technical expertise and industry knowledge.
DJ SAE
DJ SAE, a rising Nigerian creative based in the heart of New York City, has been making waves in the music scene with her exceptional talent and unique artistry as a DJ. With a remarkable skill for seamless transitions and an ear for curating captivating sets, DJ SAE has earned her reputation as one of the most promising DJs to watch in the coming years. Her mesmerizing performances have graced renowned festivals and events like the just concluded Palmwine Fest in NYC, her ability to effortlessly blend diverse genres and create a dynamic atmosphere keeps the energy high. Beyond her international success. Not confined by geographical boundaries, DJ SAE is also making waves in her home country, Lagos, where she has mesmerized crowds with her music. In a noteworthy achievement, DJ SAE had the distinct honor of DJing for the incredibly talented artist Tems at the Powerhouse weekend in 2022
As DJ SAE continues to break boundaries and captivate audiences on both sides of the Atlantic, her dynamic approach to music and undeniable passion for the craft make her a rising star with limitless potential. With a growing portfolio of remarkable achievements and collaborations with top-tier artists, DJ SAE is undoubtedly a Nigerian creative who is poised to make a significant impact in the years ahead, and her journey is one that all music enthusiasts should keep a close eye on.
ODEY
Odey, a multi-talented creative, is a rising star in the world of art and fashion. As a photographer, artist, and model, he has crafted a unique identity in the creative industry. Odey’s photography brand, “Revamp600x,” stands as a testament to his remarkable eye for capturing the extraordinary in everyday life. His lens transforms the mundane into the extraordinary, making even the most ordinary subjects appear extraordinary. Moreover, Odey has graced the fashion world with his presence, modeling for prestigious brands like Severenature. His magnetic charisma and innate ability to convey the essence of a brand make him a sought-after face in the fashion industry. Beyond his modeling and photography, Odey’s art is an enchanting blend of captivating and visually appealing works that are as vibrant and evocative as the man himself. With a promising future ahead, Odey is a trailblazer in the world of creativity, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of art and fashion.
DJ PRIMEAU
One of the youngest DJs in the industry, Primeau pronounced “/pree-mo/” is a multi-genre DJ from the heart of Nigeria’s burgeoning music scene, Lagos. A rising star who has taken the DJ world by storm. With a magnetic presence and an innate ability to move crowds, DJ Primeau has become a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and music enthusiasts across the nation. He has seamlessly blended the traditional sounds of his homeland with cutting-edge electronic beats, creating a unique and infectious sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.
DJ Primeau has become an emblem of the power of talent and persistence. As he continues to push the boundaries of music, keep an eye out for Primeau as he continues to write his remarkable story in the global music scene.
RACHEL
Rachel Ojuromi, a young Nigerian creative, is making waves in the digital world as a multi-talented content creator. As a prolific YouTuber and model, she has carved out a unique niche for herself in the creative landscape. Rachel is known for her exceptional ability to document her life and tell captivating stories through her lens. Her YouTube channel “Rachelstories” is a vibrant tapestry of vlogs, short films, and thought-provoking content, which resonates with a broad and diverse audience. Rachel’s charm, authenticity, and creative prowess have garnered her a dedicated following, and her work continues to inspire and entertain viewers not only in Nigeria but around the world.
In addition to her YouTube endeavors, Rachel is also a successful model. Her striking presence and versatility as a model have allowed her to collaborate with prominent fashion brands and photographers, showcasing her ability to transcend boundaries and leave a mark in the fashion industry. With her captivating storytelling and modeling skills, Rachel Ojuromi is a shining example of a young creative who is redefining the norms of content creation and modeling in Nigeria, proving that passion and talent can truly propel one to new heights in the digital age.
