That’s why we asked Nigerians to share their New Year’s resolutions for 2025. From career goals to personal growth, and from the relatable to the ridiculous, their responses are motivating reminders that we’re all in this together.

So, what do Nigerians want to achieve in 2025? Here’s what ten people had to say:

Mariam

My resolution for the year is broken down across career, faith, money and enjoyment. It breaks down what goals I want to achieve at the end of the year, how much money I want to save, and what I can do to be a better Muslim. The enjoyment is simple stuff I enjoy like skincare and the books I want to buy.

Every year I make resolutions, I follow through on most of them. Before I wrote out what I wanted for 2025, I listed what I achieved in 2024 and realised that I hit 70% of my 2024 goals. I wrote out the resolution for 2025 in my app note and I’ll check it regularly to ensure I’m on the right track.

Olayemi*

My resolution for the year is to get better at my job. That is, improving my writing, my knowledge about the things that I cover and my source list, and connecting more with people doing incredible work in my ecosystem. I didn’t follow through with all my resolutions for 2024, and even this year, it’s been hard — because new year resolutions involve a change of habit and carving out time for new things you think are worth pursuing. That’s really been difficult, changing old habits and some things I still do.

And of course, I know that most of what I see is an accumulation of small, tiny habits: read one hour today, read one hour tomorrow, eventually by the end of the month, one has probably finished reading four books. Everyone already has busy lives, but it’s the intention of carving out time for something and sticking to it. Being disciplined about it is usually hard for most people and for me as well. But this year, we go again — we no gree, because eventually my life’s in my hands and it’s up to me what I make of it.

Mikun

I no longer work with resolutions, I work with prophecies and it’s much more effective. For example, I knew everything that happened to me in 2024 will happen right from the last days of 2023. God told me everything and I wrote them down. To help me visualise it, I put the visions together in one picture. Occasionally, I get visions about what God is willing to share about the people around me as well. I also told my friends what He had told me because I needed witnesses. God told me everything, down to December. So I’ve ditched resolutions since then. I follow prophecy and God’s instructions.

I have no resolution for 2025 either. My ultimate goal is to seek the kingdom of God. That’s all He told me for this year. And no, I’m helped by God so I don’t backslide on His instructions.

I put aside resolutions and started to work with prophecy in 2024 because that was the year I started hearing God and trusting His leading. I used to be a control freak, so I was a fan of resolutions. They used to fail like mad. For example, in 2023, I told myself that I was going to make my first million. I worked so hard but I didn’t hit it. I did in 2024 and it was a gift. In 2024, I did everything God told me and more. There was something He told me about November 2024 and I was terrified it wouldn’t happen, but it did. When you follow visions, you have a divine advantage. It’s really beautiful. To be honest, I don’t do anything outside the Holy Spirit. I don’t have habits that He can’t break. I had an addiction to soda and I wanted to stop it. I told Him about it and it’s been easy since then. Sometimes, prophecies can come in the form of instructions that would require you to drop certain habits. 

Philemon

I don’t think they’re new year resolutions. I like to think of them as goals I’d like to achieve because they’ve been my goals even before 2025. I’ve never really written down a new year’s resolution. I didn’t have any new year’s resolutions for 2024. My goals were to improve my craft and value, which I think I did.

This year, I have goals I’d like to achieve and I work towards. The first and the most important is to get more money. I’m also keen on improving my health and value as an individual and a professional. I also want to build my body. That’s all.

Betty

My new year resolution is to deepen my creative explorations: write more and paint more. I spent last year in a pessimistic struggle for survival. 2025 is a nice year to make a change. I don’t usually have new year’s resolutions, but I follow through like 50% according to my track record.

Chigor

I actually don’t follow up with my plans. I usually come into the new year with plenty of energy and then back slide later. Last year for instance, one of the things I said I was going to do was workout, but I only did it till March and stopped. I backslided on some other plans last year that I can’t really start listing. But there are some like working out, making more friends, putting my work out there and stuff that I achieved.

The effort I make to follow through with my resolutions is mostly not calling them “resolutions” and making them a big deal, because once it’s framed as a big deal, my brain sort of taps out along the line. So, I’m just taking things one step at a time. For 2025, I don’t really have a “resolution,” but one thing I’ve acknowledged I want to do this year is go out more. I already aligned with one of my friends on this. We’re supposed to have a call this weekend about it actually.

Bobga

I didn’t set clear resolutions in 2024, to be honest. I went with the flow for most of it. Though it wasn’t horrible because I was very malleable and adjusted to situations better. For instance, I’d been waiting for my results to get cleared, so I could go do my NYSC, but I wasn’t sure when they’d clear it. So whenever I got disappointed by the school, I just made short term decisions that I believed would add up in the long run, like learning to mix vocals, or taking tutorials to improve my visual art.

This 2025 is the first time I’m setting clear resolutions. I want to hit the gym and bulk up. I want to drop more projects as an artist, explore more genres as an artist too. I also plan to be more outgoing.

Samuel

My resolution for the new year is to get a job that pays in dollars  because I’m currently too poor to live in this country with my current income as a graphic and product designer. Also, I want to work more on my music this year.

I had a resolution to learn product design in 2024 and I followed through. I always try my best to follow through because my resolutions are very critical to my life. This new year, I’m taking one step at a time and staying positive.

Owoh

My resolution this year is to try as much as possible to stay sober. I want to cut down my drinking and smoking habits this year and focus on working out. My body needs a break and the exercises. My resolution for 2024 was to earn bigger and I did it. I got a new job and doubled my income. In 2025, I’m confident I’ll make more money than I did last year, but my health is my top priority this year. My HMO covers gym membership, which I’m super grateful for, and I’ve already registered and started working out small small.

Dinho

The thing about resolutions is that I’m always backsliding. I don’t think I’ve ever made a resolution and seen it through. Funny, I didn’t have any resolutions in 2024, I just wanted to get through the year. Regardless, what’s life if we don’t strive?

2025, so help me God, I intend to be more disciplined about showing up everyday. I genuinely believe it’s the key to success in my life. I’ve been committing to that by following the routine I created for myself to optimize workflow last year. I’m not taking any unnecessary days off.

Read Next: 14 Nigerians on Their Most Used Social Media Slang of 2024

Bad Faith

This Uche Jumbo film is about the jealous nature of human beings. Here a housemaid and her friend collide to poison her boss and steal from her. It features actors like Chisom Omoge, Clinton Joshua, Daniel Etim-Effiong and Jumbo herself.

It’s Our Wedding

Chioma Chukwuka and Uche Jumbo star in this Chinney Love Eze’s film about two mothers who wouldn’t let their kids get married because they’re archenemies. Actors like Michael Dappa and Adegoke Peace also star in it.

The Homecoming

In this emotional film, a woman returns home to loss, broken family ties, unresolved issues, and a toxic work environment. Yet she finds love in all the chaos. It features Bimbo Ademoye, Timini Egbuson and Bisola Aiyeola.

Teacher Dorcas

This film follows the story of a teacher named Dorcas who loves her job and gives her all to educate her students. She helps a student who is impregnated beat societal stigmas and gets back to her education. Bimbo Ademoye, Lateef Adedimeji, and Ehis Perfect feature in this Uduak Isong production.

Ibale

In this YouTube Yoruba film, a poor couple finds a spiritual solution to their financial troubles at a babalawo’s place. But their fate is tied to the wife’s “ibale” (or virginity in English). Ayo Olaiya, Temitope Aremu, and Akinola Akano are cast members.

Business Partner

Veteran actor Bolaji Amusan, AKA Mr. Latin, produced this comedy about elderly friends who come together to form a business of fake seers. But they ruined it eventually with their greediness. It features acts such as Adeola Soremi, Monsuru Ijayegbemi and Yomi King. If you like Mr. Latin’s kind of comedy: light, a bit corny and cheesy, then you’ll enjoy this.

Unwanted Wife

A mother-in-law takes over her son’s house and makes his wife’s life hell. Chioma Nwosu and Shazanay Okawa star in this film.

Last Days

A devoted Christian and single mother questions her faith and God when her breast cancer returns. This is a Moses Olufemi film that stars Funsho Adeolu, Susan Peters, and Bimbo Ademoye.

Hyphen

This Ayobami Adegboyega film tells the story of a stingy husband who disrespects his wife and always makes excuses that “things are hard,” yet he finds money to fund his adulterous lifestyle. Other actors include Omolara Ayoola, Gabriella Obadare and Joseph Solomon.

Meet the Parents

A lady called Gina met a guy called Bolu coincidentally, setting off their romance in the festive season. It explored other themes like family and communication. This latest Omoni Oboli film features actors like Michael Dappa, Patrick Doyle and Toyin Alausa.

See below eight albums that you should look out for in 2025:

TBA* — Tiwa Savage

In case you’re wondering what TBA is, I’m simply saying that the title of Tiwa Savage’s new album, set for release this year, is to be announced. She recently posted on her IG story that the album, her fifth release, will likely be her last one. Its release date is also to be announced. While we wait for the album, stream her latest single, “Mega Money Mega.”

Unkle K — Kizz Daniel

Whether Kizz Daniel is looking to offer big-uncle support to his nieces and nephews or a crash course on enjoyment to the youngins who find him cool, his upcoming album, Unkle K, is giving millennial vibes. No release date yet, but we trust Mr. No Bad Songs to deliver jams for both the young and old. His new single with AG Baby is out.

No Sign of Weakness — Burna Boy

I’m hoping that when Burna Boy is done with all his internet drama, which should’ve faded with 2024, he’ll join us in 2025 and begin a proper, organic rollout for his next album, No Sign of Weakness. There is no release date yet. No confirmation if “Bundle By Bundle” is a single from Burna’s new album, but it’s his latest jam and it gets the club going.

Clarity of Mind — Omah Lay

After finding love among fans of emo music, Omah Lay leaves his Boy Alone era behind and offers Clarity of Mind with his upcoming album. This time, he picks yellow as his album art, something brighter and illuminating, to win over all the happy folks and possibly heal those still lonely and struggling. It’s been eleven months since this song came out. We patiently look forward to his next drop.

I Am the Blueprint — Qing Madi

Thankfully, Qing Madi didn’t rob us of her incredible talents by giving up on music at age 13. Now, she’s 18, and her debut album, dropping on January 31, 2025, is set to make a statement of what she had said about herself and her musical journey: I Am the Blueprint. It isn’t a cap that she’s one of the hottest 18-year-old singers and dancers in Afrobeats at the moment. She has a new single titled “Favorite Pyscho.”

5ive — Davido

On March 14, 2025, Davido will put out his fifth studio album 5ive. It’s a 17-track album, and he has dropped two singles, “Awuke” and “Funds” off it. It’s almost two years since OBO’s last album, Timeless, and I hope the new one, 5ive, is worth it. “Awuke” is one of two singles he put out last year.

Protect Sarz At All Costs — Sarz

Nigerian prolific music producer and DJ, Sarz is back this year with a new project, Protect Sarz At All Costs. From its title alone, it’s giving ambitious. With a daring solo project like Sarz Is Not Your Mate and the beastly EDM-infused production he’s churning out lately, his new album is set to be an experimental and bold rave soundscape. No release date yet, but keep on jamming his new single with Asake.

TBA* — Lojay

Afrobeats lover boy Lojay will also release his first official full-length album in 2025. There is no title or release date yet, but we’ll continue rinsing and repeating his latest singles like “Billion”, “Loveless,” and “Dishonest.”

ICYMI, Our 10 Best Afrobeats Albums of 2024

But what exactly is a streaming farm? Simply put, it’s a shady operation where bots, fake accounts, and other sneaky tactics are used to inflate music streaming numbers artificially. We’re talking millions of fake streams, raking in thousands of dollars in royalties. Welcome to the wild, wild west of surviving DSP.

If you’re looking to get into it, we have seven sure-fire steps below:

Buy a plot of land in Ikorodu

To set up a streaming farm, the first thing you need is space to set up a shop and store your devices. So, if you have free land, now is the time to build a structure on it. If you don’t have that, consider buying or leasing one at Ikorodu.

Buy many Buy-1-Get 5-free SIM cards in traffic

You need many SIM cards for your multiple phones to stream songs and share a hotspot with the laptops. Suggesting an efficient internet provider in Nigeria is hard, but go with what works for you.

Pay a trip to Alaba

The most essential tools you need for your streaming farm hustle are phones and laptops because they stream your clients’ songs. Get many for cheap at Alaba International. They can never be too many. 

Buy unlimited data plans

I’m sorry, but ₦600 for 2.5 gigabytes of data can’t sustain a streaming farm. You need unlimited data. Stick with the networks in Nigeria if you don’t have Starlink money.

Invest in good jazz

You need a strong connection to reroute the IP of your streaming devices to residential addresses outside the original location to rake up streams from other places. Even the most premium VPI can’t stand beside a very good jazz. Argue with your tech bros.

Employ your jobless friends

You need people to oversee the operations. Who else fits this, if not your less-busy discreet friends or relatives?

Refuse to trust NEPA

If you put all your hope in NEPA, you can’t have a booming streaming farm. Instead, invest in solar or be ready to splurge on fuel or diesel.

As we gradually approach the end of 2024, we’ve dug through the piles of the year’s music releases to find the best albums it has offered.

“HEIS” — Rema

Rema’s second album, “HEIS”, is a hyperfast music packaged for night-long parties and swarming raves. Rema uses the album to pay tribute to his Edo roots. The title translates to “number one”. “HEIS” has been met with criticisms that question Rema’s artistic integrity and unexpected sound disruption. However, it remains one of  the most experimental and daring music we’ve heard this year.

“adedamola” — Fireboy DML

Fireboy DML throws his playboy persona out the window and welcomes the lover boy back on “adedamola”, his self-titled latest album. The project pays tribute to his inspirations like Lagbaja and Wande Coal. Also, shout-out to the wicked babe who made him sing his heart out on hell and back.

“The Year I Turned 21” — Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr’s “The Year I Turned 21 (TYIT21)” album is a coming-of-age project. She sings about personal longing and celebrity pressure. It won’t make you feel like a 21-year-old, but you’ll remember your youthful exuberance.

“Stubborn” — Victony

“Stubborn” is Victony’s semi-autobiography album. Perhaps the title refers to a trait he was known for as a kid or his resilience in the face of adversity, like the life-altering car accident he had. From his low moments to accomplishments to love experiences, Victony finds a plethora of messages to deliver on his debut album.

“Morayo” — Wizkid

Prior to “Morayo”, Wizkid sang about finding his purpose on Asake’s MMS. On his latest album, the Afrobeats superstar celebrates his late mother. Maybe that’s his purpose and it’s the biblical and traditional expectation to honour parents. While that may be the premise of “Morayo”, it’s a coat over the sweet songs, most of which are surface-deep. If you’re in search of a state-of-grief, I-can’t-want-to-leave-without-you, tear-jerking music, this isn’t it. But a good-time with sexy and gyrating tunes? A blast is guaranteed.

“Master of Ballads” — Dwin, the Stoic

Heartbreak survivor’s testimonies, finished lover yearnings and different emotional frequencies define Dwin, the Stoic’s sophomore solo album, “Master of Ballads.” Naked and comfortable in its composition and lyricism, the music warmly welcomes the emotional and slowly takes off the hard-guy mask to accommodate open-hearted vulnerability. That is, it’s made for self-love, romance, heartbreak, grief, rebound and all the affairs and fair shares of relationships. Dwin may call himself a stoic, but he knows how to sing about almost all feelings, including yours, too much.

“Dearest Madam Pt. 1” — DOTTi the Deity

Real lovers should assemble here for “Madam Dearest Pt. 1”. The album’s a sequence of melodious yearnings and affectionate lyrics harmonised for the pleasure of hopeless romantics. 

“Homeless” — Llona

If you’re looking for emotive music that covers loneliness, rejection and depression, Llona’s “Homeless” is for you. If you feel as described, the album’s the music that knows your story. Its lyricism shines best when it unclads emotions; it leaves the listeners no choice but to face their demons. “Homeless” is realism and escapism at the same time.

“Lungu Boy” — Asake

Asake shifted from Amapiano production and went after other sound experiments on his third album, “Lungu Boy”. He found new pockets to showcase fresh flows and take his music to global space. “Lungu Boy” is not his best work, but it proves he’s not operating in a box.

“Press Play” — Niniola

It’s been a decade since Niniola entered the Nigerian music scene. In terms of her dedication to her sound and its improvement, she remains one of the most consistent artists. Her new album “Press Play”, like her previous works, clearly explores sophisticated debauchery and enjoyment. It wouldn’t be totally wrong to call Niniola a refined version of juju singer Saint Janet.

For nearly two decades, Vector tha Viper has rapped each verse like he’s brightening a dull room, transferring his wit and coolness before charmingly bursting into a thousand volts of energy at the song’s end.

Whether subbing record labels that pressure him to spit in “vernacular” (as he called Yoruba in his song “Kilode”) to sell, or boasting about being a better version of what everyone assumes is the best, there’s a self-consciousness and intentional energy to Vector’s rap style that sets him apart. From Sarkodie to Reminisce, M.I Abaga, Jesse Jagz, Show Dem Camp, and many more, Vector has consistently held his place as one of West Africa’s finest.

At this point in his career, Vector could focus solely on his mid-range medleys, expressing how he feels, and his legacy would remain intact. On his sixth studio album, Teslim: A Lover Boy PTSD, the Lafiaji rapper embraces his transition into a lover boy. Following the evolution of his “Teslim” persona and earlier instalments in his discography, this new album extensively explores his romantic and experimental sides.

What is the inspiration for this album?

“A Lover Boy’s PTSD” is how the average man would claim they feel about expressing love. Though it’s not just referring to the men: it’s both sexes. But because I’m male and my pronouns are he and him, it had to be a lover stating the fact that he’s a lover boy. The PTSD is the reason why he can’t really show it too much. So, this album is dedicated to the women getting a little good out of lover boys’ PTSD.

You sing a lot in this album, which reminds me of “Early Momo,” as opposed to rapping. Why?

I wasn’t trying to put a certain targeted sound together just to achieve something. I was just making music, and it all came together as such. It’s not something that came from the “Early Momo” wave. As a matter of fact, “Early Momo” rode on a couple of others.

Music can’t be defined whether in creation or after creation, meaning whether in process or success, you still can’t define it. So for what it’s worth, I didn’t make this album targeting any particular thing. It’s just a series of moments where music was made. For example, “Can’t Come Close” is a real life situation happening every other day. The older you get in your journey, the more you have time to maybe address musically some other things that you’ve experienced and one for me would be a whole lot of women.

Knowing that I’ve had many interactions with women and noticing that my pops loved many women, too, I can see how that energy could be transferred.

But this music (singing) is just one of those things that happen as you explore your talent more.

Any fear of giving people what they aren’t used to?

No, never. The only problem I’ve had is people trying to direct my artistry. I’ve always been a mad scientist type of artist, a choir boy.

Yeah, you seem like one, but the rap image has stuck with many people

I know. I’m a rapper, too. It’s both simultaneously well balanced. I’ve never solely made myself a rap image. Probably growing up in the barracks and Lagos Island has shaped how people identify with my artistry, because a lot of rappers build a tough guy persona.

The time people got a lot of raps was its own time. It doesn’t change the fact that I’ve always been a simultaneous artist. I probably may have struggled with it because when I came into the music setting, I often heard that if you’re a dope rapper and you can also sing,  you sound like a sissy. I don’t know what that means, but the older you grow, you realize that, for example, in Africa, if rap is “Rhythm and Poetry,” what then is rhythm? It’s melodies. So, the older I got on my journey with music, I realized that you can be dynamically gifted and express those dynamic gifts. I don’t care whether I’m singing or whether it’s rap time; I’m whooping your ass, AKA “I’m just doing me.”

The album is complimented by more singers. Tell me about the collaborations on the new album

The thing about collaboration is I let the music lead. For example, the record with Bella Shmurda existed before he dropped “Cash App.” Destiny never lies when it comes to talent.

You could tell the energy once it comes to your head. You can tell it’s not just about what’s popping or who is ringing. You can tell the appropriate energy for a record. I always go with energy, and the energy can come from anywhere. With “Iya Nla Nla” featuring Niniola, we had met, and we said we were going to make a record together and we just made it. The record with Tiwa Savage was supposed to be “My Dada” with Emmsong and Top Adlerman, but she ended up on “Repay Your Part.”

My brother Kane facilitated the foreign collaborations. Madame Betty, a longtime friend, introduced us to some artists around the time Kane went to Colombia and met their Vice President to discuss the arts, especially the relationship of Yoruba culture in their regions. That was how collaborators like Jossman and Scridge came into the picture. Kane pulled it off, but it’s all just from relationships that we’ve built in the music industry years over.

So, there was no intention to assemble the Justice League, if you know what I mean. The music just needed to honestly be of interest to the collaborators.

How do you maintain total creativity and ownership in the room?

At some point, you speak to execs or people who intend to run management or do things, and everybody just has the same statement: “If there’s money now, we’ll do this.” I understand the place of money in all these things or in achieving stuff in the world. But what about the artists that don’t have money? Does that mean they will not do anything? So, when I heard that a lot, I was like, “Okay, maybe it’s not a wrong thing. Perhaps it’s just not for me. I’ve played that card before, and I don’t know what the structuring is, but there’s just a lot going on that’s straightforward on paper but not in reality.

I personally don’t know how to dwell in that vicinity, so I removed myself from that conversation about people interfering in the arts process a long time ago. One thing I realised as well is that once an artist does this, they start to see less of the artist in a lot of places. The product from the artist is public consumption, but not the artist, like the art.

There was a time when we were up and coming, you always had to be in the club to show that you’re an artist. I felt that was a bit awkward, but who am I to judge a multitude of people doing the same thing? But at some point, you see that being at the club every time doesn’t do anything for your music other than maybe inspire you to make the same type of club music. That’s not the alpha and omega of artistry. I knew that that wasn’t a thing for me. So, I just kind of left it. I didn’t argue with it. I didn’t fight it. I just left it because it’s not a thing for me.

You were in London for the first time this year. How was that?

It was my first time in London this year. I performed my music to people, it was good. It’s one of my moves to take my music around globally and meet fans. The move is also part of artistic liberation because we’re open to going out there and just creating more opportunities for artists from Africa or Nigeria or anybody close to us. 

I’m not saying it was intentionally curated for African nationals. I just wanted to get my tour up and be able to see if it was doable. And since it’s doable, let every other interested person come and get it done with us. But it’s definitely about to be more reaching out to the fans because we’ve built over the years.

In recent times, your music has pointed to the idea of a higher self. Is there a spiritual connection to your music?

It’s just a peaceful expression. To put it in simple terms: I can express more peacefully within the confines of music than I could trying to explain anything to anybody in a conversation. But that’s also a function of spirit, I want to believe that talent is a function of spirit. If that’s so, that means every time talent is being shown, spirituality is happening. Again, spirit lies within. We can’t escape staying in the spirit. It’s also how you tell when an energy is around you. Music has to be one of the most fluid expressions of spirituality.

How do you feel about the idea of legacy? Are you concerned about legacy?

No, I’m not concerned about legacy. You can’t really plan a legacy. Are you trying to tell me that the intention of Equatorial Guinea’s Baltasar Engonga was to be known for his 400 leaked sex tapes?

So, I’m not bothered about legacy because you can’t be bothered about the outcome of something you are busy creating. You’re busy with that and you don’t even know what issue you’d meet on that road. I can’t tell you how to see me now and it’s legacy not by the perception of everybody. For a lot of people, the stories they’ve built about me in their heads are different, and they’d spin these stories in different circles that I would never know.

How do you slow yourself down in this fast world we live in now?

I tell myself, “Calm down. Calm down.” But honestly, the only thing to use to slow down a fast-paced world is self-honesty because with honesty to the self, you tell yourself you’re not as fast as the world, and then you run at your pace. I learned to be brutally honest with myself, and that helped me slow down. For instance, at the passing of my dad, I was brutally honest to myself that I had to embrace death because everybody does it. One lives a better life when one embraces death in everyday thoughts.

Is there anything about yourself, old or new, that you see in the new generation of artists?

Have you heard the amount of people that sample “King Kong”? When I see people trying to recreate what I’ve made or my style, I’m proud. You don’t get angry at the fact that you set the trend. You should actually be glad that you were able to set trends. But at the same time, when I hear something that I want to believe is me musically, I just don’t care about it because who am I to say that person is copying from me? What if it’s something else that inspired them as such?

I’m even proud to see the new generation of rappers who can sing or rap.

What lessons have learnt from working with creatives?

I’ve learned how the Nigerian situation stifles creativity because you can’t just get up and go and create. There are so many factors affecting that. Just accommodating expressions from different creatives isn’t easy. Plus, art must be allowed to be done freely.

But the general idea around where we make art is that things can’t even be freely done. So, how can one achieve the highest point of artistic collaboration? Amenities that make things easy for artists are non-existent. That makes them lose their spark. We’re now forced to this cutthroat mentality of, “You better do it how it’s going to bring money or go that place wey things go work o.”

“People Still Like Me This Much?” — Reminisce Celebrates Fan Response to “Alaye Toh Se Gogo”

Though the year isn’t overflowing with anthems, as the industry knows it, many gems and excellent music came out this year, and they’re undeniable. Whether they flew under your radar, weren’t the biggest hits, or just weren’t your cup of tea, they locked it down this year.

In no particular order.

OZEBA — Rema

As playful and disruptive as OZEBA may sound and present itself, what separates it from an ordinary noise amp is its protector-of-the-realm lyricism. Rema scales over boundaries, exerts flexibility, slips past gatekeepers, recognises himself as the leader of his era, and he’s assured that he has the smart to keep finessing and breaking the industry rules. “You wan gatekeep who sabi jump fence?” is a stopper statement.

Risk — Victony

One of this year’s Afrobeats novel releases is Victony’s Risk. He sings of superficial frivolities: showers of funds, fresh clothes, baddies with big bums — he wants them by any means. The song is simple, yet he brings substance to it. The beat is bouncy and unorthodox and vibrates deeper at every chant of “Risk, risk, risk.” Victony pushed his limits in multi-dimensional flows and unsubscribed from the usual uniform approach of Afrobeats.

Bad Vibez — Ayra Starr feat. Seyi Vibez 

Ayra Starr grabs Seyi Vibez for a feature on this song about avoiding people with bad spirits and channels her energy to what pays her: money. The baseline snatches waists, and the defiant lyrics, with sprinkles of good time and protective energy, are the mantra of living life from stress.

Iseoluwa — Fireboy DML

This is the album opener of Fireboy DML’s new album, “adedamola”. Iseoluwa, meaning “the work of God” in Yoruba, sees Fireboy humble and filled with gratitude for numerous things that surpass his knowledge, albeit divine: the gift of existence, a high-flying career (six years deep in the mainstream), and an affluent lifestyle. Whether it’s at a church, mosque, club, or a pensioner’s party, this song has an audience everywhere.

Morowore — Olamide 

On one hand, Olamide throws gratitude to his creator in the air. On the other, he interpolates the 2002-released Play Paul Dairo song titled Mo Wa Dupe (meaning “I came to give thanks”). This Olamide song reflects his state of mind and the believer part of him. YBNL has recorded success this year, from Asake’s global domination to Fireboy’s acclaimed new album and Olamide’s reign as a music executive.

I Go Nowhere — Dwin, the Stoic

Not many people can be simple and calm in their language and tone yet be intensely captivating with every vocal release. In this song, Dwin promises unrelenting and ever-present love to his lover. In a year with numerous hyper-fast and hard-hitting produced music, Dwin orchestrates a ballad that muses more passionately and intentionally about love when the noises are down and the head in one place.

Are You There — Ayo Maff

The woes of loneliness and walking the road of greatness or despair alone is enough reason for anyone to muster up and humbly ask, “Are you there?” Rising star Ayo Maff pours his life story and experiences from the street into a minimalist but bouncy production that holds the song from slipping into total melancholy.

Active — Asake feat. Travis Scott

Asake is active, which in urban interpretation means he’s lit, ready to go, or focused. He samples Jazzman Olofin’s Raise the Roof, featuring Fuji maestro Adewale Ayuba, whose voice is taped around Active. Asake sings of having a good time, while Travis Scott’s verse expands on that with a rap star pizzazz. It’s for the city boys and girls. Turn up!

Crown Bounce — Leather Park & Odunsi (the Engine) feat. Minz & Elias Slay66r

This is a sexy record for early morning musings into your lover’s earlobes, sweet nothings in breezy evenings and sultry confessions in the seductive darkness of the night. The artists sing about all they’d do to keep their desire burning. While they leave a reminder that they have girls around the world, there’s a focus on that one gorgeous lady.

mo de ma — Minz

Looking back at his impressive journey and recognising that this is only the beginning of what he’s set out to achieve, Minz locks in more than before. He’ll try to push out his dreams rather than rot in his comfort zone. Minz is focused on breaking down barriers and leaving marks on the game when all is said and done.

Not everyday loud music and amapiano dance, I wanted to feed my eyes with music art display and learn while at it too. My experience throughout the event turned out educative, fun and immersive than I imagined it’d be. My observations about this programme opened itself up into the things that it’s knowingly or unknowingly doing. Here they are:

History and culture custody

If the Nigerian music industry had a protest against its ecosystem, the most popular cry, which is valid, on placards would be “We have no structure.” If there’s a solid structure, it starts with recognising our history, taking from the past the gems and lessons that we need for the future, and providing platforms for brilliant professionals to share knowledge and execute along with others to build.

It exhibited relics of King Sunny Ade and painted artworks of numerous Nigerian musicians from the dead to the present. It also exhibited old copies of Nigerian pop culture and entertainment magazines like Hip-Hop World Magazine. There were even cassette tapes of artists like Junior N Pretty and Chrtisy Essien-Igbokwe and vinyls of Fela Kuti, Victor Olaiya, and many more.

Learning and interactive space

Pop Central is currently one platform that does all of the above. Its “70 Years of Music In Nigeria” programme has hosted town hall sessions with experienced and professional media and music industry players like Sam Onyemelukwe, Joey Akan, Jide Taiwo, Ayomide Tayo, Favour Agbai, etc., to discuss issues like the importance of music to young people, gender gaps in leadership in the music industry, paying tribute to Nigerian young music legends, etc.

This event’s also a bridge for older and younger generations of artists and creatives, music entrepreneurs and enthusiasts, media personalities, etc. to connect, have conversations, share perspectives and make meaningful relationships that progress the industry.

Platform for young creatives

The event wasn’t limited to music-inclined people and its business(wo)men. It served as a showcase for young Nigerian painters, designers, and creative directors. The artworks exhibited in the Pop Haus were made by artists like Toyo Jo, Precious Egbugara, Ifeoluwa George, Dami Diamond, and many more.

Therapy for artists

The town hall sessions make space for difficult questions and honest conversations between the speakers and the audience. An example was Joey Akan’s session about the importance of social media in music on December 19th. He interacted with everyone in the room, particularly an artist who started putting out music professionally in 2023. They talked about his consistency, positioning, promo and marketing. The artist’s apparent dedication to building his fan community impressed Joey Akan, who promised to listen to and share his music with some important people if it’s excellent.

We’ve Been Outside, and We Found Out What Happens When the Most Avid Fuji Fans Come Out to Play

If you’re looking for the perfect watchlist this season, we’ve got you covered. Catch all the exciting content on M-Net Movies, available on DStv.

Whether you’re a fan of superhero flicks, gripping actions and dramas, or epics, there’ something for you to watch on M-Net Movies this month.

John Wick: Chapter 2

If you’ve seen the first John Wick, you already know that the death of his dog triggered all the chaos. In this sequel, Wick, a retired professional killer and the stuff of nightmares, is forced back into action to settle a blood debt. With a bounty on his head, the action is relentless. Catch this thriller on M-Net at 4:15 PM on December 22, 2024. Note: This movie contains violent content and is unsuitable for viewers under 16.

Empire State

In this gripping crime drama, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Liam Hemsworth star in a story about two friends planning a robbery that goes awry when a determined cop steps in. If you’re in the mood for a tense, police-versus-criminals showdown this holiday, don’t miss Empire State on M-Net at 12:40 PM on December 23, 2024. Viewer discretion is advised due to violent scenes and language.

Retribution

This intense thriller follows a successful financial trader and father whose car, with his two children inside, is rigged with a bomb. Forced to follow the assailant’s instructions, he fights for his family’s survival. Watch the tension unfold on M-Net at 2:00 PM on December 24, 2024. Suitable for viewers aged 16 and above.

Aquaman

Dive into the visually stunning world of Atlantis with Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry, AKA Aquaman. This demigod embarks on a mission to claim his place as King of Atlantis while saving the world from his ruthless brother, Orm. Experience the underwater adventure on M-Net at 12:50 PM on December 25, 2024. Recommended for viewers aged 13 and above.

Blacklight

This action-packed film follows the story of a government operative with a very particular skill set that the FBI sometimes asks for. When he discovers a dark conspiracy that threatens to destroy everything, he must use his expertise to take down the bad guys and protect the innocent. Viewers from age 16 and above can catch it at 4:45 on the evening of December 26, 2024.

Marlowe

Set in the gritty streets of 1930s Los Angeles, this neo-noir crime thriller follows private investigator Philip Marlowe as he tackles a case filled with danger, corruption, and femme fatales. Catch this smooth and atmospheric story on M-Net at 11:00 AM on December 27, 2024. For viewers aged 16 and above.

Flash

Join Barry Allen, the fastest man alive, on a thrilling journey as he faces the consequences of tampering with the past. Packed with warmth, humour, and excitement, this superhero adventure is perfect for viewers aged 13 and above. Watch it on M-Net at 1:25 PM on December 28, 2024.

Green Hornet

Skip your Sunday morning plans to enjoy this superhero classic. Watch a spoiled rich kid and his trusted friend Kato fight crime with cutting-edge gadgets. Action-packed and comic-inspired, it’s ideal for viewers aged 13 and above. Showing on M-Net at 8:40 AM on December 29, 2024.

Scorpion King

Step into an epic tale of swords, sandals, and heroism. Follow a powerful warrior’s journey to become the legendary Scorpion King as he battles an evil warlord. Catch this timeless clash between good and evil on M-Net at 8:35 AM on December 30, 2024. Recommended for viewers aged 13 and above.

Monkey Man

In this action-packed revenge thriller, a recently released prisoner returns to Mumbai to confront a corrupt system. As he battles his own demons, he transforms into the “Monkey Man” to bring justice to his enemies. Don’t miss this gripping story on M-Net at 11:25 PM on December 31, 2024, as you usher in the New Year. Viewer discretion is advised.

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