Comedy in Nigeria serves only one purpose: to make the audience laugh. When you’re feeling down, it’s a good idea to laugh, according to Help-guide. As you laugh, your body produces endorphins and dopamine, which aid in relaxation and inner peace. Nigerian comedians have risen to entertain people with stories, dance, and drama, which is an intriguing trend.
Moreover, in the last 30 years, the comedy industry has grown to become the third largest entertainment industry in Nigeria, trailing only Nollywood and music, with an estimated worth of N50 billion.
Is this too good to be true? LinkedIn goes into greater detail regarding this amazing growth.
So, let’s discuss the rise and success of Nigerian comedians.
Who Are The Top Ten Most Successful Comedians In Nigeria?
Note, the list below comprises the bio, net worth, and sources of income of successful Nigerian comedians.
1. Ali Baba
Ali Baba is Nigeria’s most successful comedian. His real name is Atunyota Alleluya Akporobom, and he was born in 1965. With a total net worth of over N3.75 billion, Alibaba, 57, is Nigeria’s richest comedian.
Ali Baba’s career began in the 90s when he began performing stand-up comedy, and he swiftly rose to prominence as one of Nigeria’s top stars.
This feat saw the rise of an era of professional comedy in the country, as well as significantly elevating the profile of stand-up comedy in Nigeria.
Antuyota is widely recognized as one of Nigeria’s funniest comedians, with a significant fan following due to his natural wit and astute observations of everyday life. He’s also well-known for using humour to highlight political and social concerns, which has gained him a lot of respect from his colleagues.
In addition, Ali Baba has found success on radio, television, in films, and in books. “Shaking With Laughter”, “Being Ali Baba”, and “Laugh, Think, Enjoy” are among his best-selling novels.
A yearly event featuring some of Nigeria’s leading comedians, the Ali Baba International Festival Of Comedy And Arts is his brainchild.
Lastly, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the comedy industry, Ali Baba has received numerous awards over the years including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) and the Nigerian National Order of Merit Award from the Federal Government of Nigeria.
2. AY
With a net worth of over N2.92 billion, AY is Nigeria’s second most successful and prolific comedian. Ayodeji Richard Makun aka AY was born in Delta State; began his career as an actor and playwright before becoming a stand-up comedian.
Ayodeji is best recognized for his smart jokes and rib-cracking punchlines at his two comedy shows, AY Live, and AY’s Crib.
Over the years, AY has received various awards for his amazing achievements, including;
MTV Africa Music Awards for Best Stand-up Comedian (2008)
NEA Comedy Award for Best Stand-up Comedian (2009)
Nigeria Entertainment Awards for Best Actor in a Comedy Movie (2009).
AY started the inaugural AY Live comedy program in 2010, which has since become one of Nigeria’s most famous comedy shows.
In addition to stand-up comedy, he has directed and produced films. His directorial debut, “30 Days in Atlanta,” was a tremendous success in 2014.
Furthermore, AY has invested in real estate, opening up a boutique hotel in Lekki and investing in other business ventures.
3. Basketmouth
One of Nigeria’s biggest and most successful stand-up comedians, Bright Okpocha, popularly known by his stage name Basketmouth was born in 1978.
Basketmouth has been a mainstay in the Nigerian comedy industry for over two decades amassing a net worth of over N2.34 billion.
Bright began his career as a comedian in 2000 and has since become one of the most recognizable faces in the Nigerian comedy scene.
Basketmouth has toured extensively in countries such as the UK, U.S., Canada, Ghana, South Africa, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Zambia, Namibia, and Kenya. He was featured as a guest on popular late-night talk shows such as The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Night with Conan O’Brien.
Basketmouth’s work has earned him multiple accolades, including;
- Best Stand-Up Comedian at the 2010 African Magic Viewers Choice Awards
- Best Comedian of the Year at the 2011 Nigerian Entertainment Awards
- Best Comedian at the 2014 Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Apart from comedy, Bright is an actor, producer, and director. He’s best known for his roles in the comedy films 30 Days in Atlanta and My Life My Damage.
Basketmouth’s contribution to Nigerian comedy and entertainment is undeniable. He is considered one of the most influential figures in the Nigerian comedy industry and his popularity continues to grow.
4. I Go Dye
With a net worth of over N2.13 billion, I Go Dye, originally Francis Agoda is one of Nigeria’s most successful comedians. He is a successful stand-up comedian, actor, and entrepreneur. I Go Dye began his career in 2004 and has since become one of Nigeria’s most well-known comedians.
“Social satire” is the best way to describe I Go Dye’s comic style. His skits usually concentrate on Nigerian social subjects such as politics, religion, and culture.
I Go Dye capitalizes on his personality and knowledge by appearing on radio and television shows regularly.
One of I Go Dye’s most significant achievements is his continual attempts to empower young Nigerians. He founded various charitable organizations, including the I Go Dye Foundation, which provides nutritious food, education, healthcare, and career opportunities to those in need.
I Go Dye has become a household name in Nigeria and an inspiration to many having received various awards and honours, including the renowned Best Comedian of the Year award at the African Entertainment Awards USA in 2013.
I Go Dye’s work continues to make Nigeria proud with his humour and charm.
5. Julius Agwu
Julius Agwu, commonly known as Julius de Genius, is a successful Nigerian comedian. Agwu, who was born in Rivers State, Nigeria, has been entertaining audiences since the early 2000s.
As a stand-up comedian, actor, and MC, Julius has amassed a net worth of over N1.5 billion.
Agwu rose to prominence after his comedy skit “Laugh For Jesus” went viral on the internet in 2001. He’s had a tremendous career touring in over 20 countries since and appearing in films, television shows, and stage plays.
Julius Agwu is a record label executive at Playdata Records besides being a musician. He has signed several Nigerian acts, including Bovi and Faze. Agwu is also the CEO of Reel Laif Entertainment, a production firm.
Some of his accolades include;
- Best Comedian of the Year at the Nigerian Music Video Awards
- Funny Man of the Year at the Naija Music Awards
- Best Comedian’ at the City People Entertainment Awards.
Agwu’s success as a comedian continues to inspire up-and-coming performers across Nigeria.
6. Okey Bakassi
Okey Bakassi is a popular Nigerian comedian and actor, who rose to fame in the early 2000s with his roles in various comedy shows on Nigerian television networks. He is considered one of the most successful comedians in Nigeria and is known for his unique style of comedy that blends storytelling with music, dance, and props.
As the sixth richest comedian, Bakassi, 53, has a total net worth of over N800 million.
Bakassi started his comedy career performing stand-up comedy in clubs and other venues before being invited to join the Nollywood movie industry.
After appearing in several films, he was eventually given his show, “The Okey Bakassi Show”. The show ran for three seasons and was very successful, giving Bakassi a huge fan base across Nigeria.
Bakassi is still active in the comedy scene and has had several sold-out shows in Nigeria and other countries. He continues to appear regularly on stage and has ventured into music with his debut album “Life Is Sweet” released in 2014.
In addition to comedy, Bakassi has become an author, releasing two books entitled “My Life As A Comedian” and “I’m No Joke”.
Okey Bakassi is without a doubt one of the most successful Nigerian comedians of all time, with a huge fan base both at home and abroad. His unique blend of music, storytelling, and props has kept fans entertained for years and continues to do so today.
7. Bovi
Bovi Ugboma, popularly known as Bovi, is the seventh most successful comedian in Nigeria. He’s known for his stand-up comedy specials and television shows such as Bovi Man on Fire, Bovi Live, and The CEO.
Bovi is known for his witty, rib-cracking jokes and his comedic sketches which have become quite popular with the Nigerian audience. He started his career in the entertainment industry as a music video director and gained recognition for his works with artists such as 2face Idibia, P-Square, and D’Banj.
Subsequently, he has since moved on to become an acclaimed comedian, having performed in countries like South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, and the United Kingdom. He is also a regular at comedy shows such as Basketmouth Uncensored, John Okafor’s Chief Daddy, and AY Live.
What’s more, Bovi made his acting debut in a movie called The Adventures of Malaysia in 2016, where he starred alongside Nollywood actors Ini Edo and Nse Ikpe-Etim. He has since gone on to appear in several other films including Got to Have it (2017) and The Wedding Party 2: Destination Dubai (2018).
Following this, he won the Most Popular Comedian at the Net Honours and was nominated for Best Actor in a Comedy AMVCA
In 2018, he launched his own production company, Krakstv, which produces original content such as web series and movies. He also hosts the annual Bovi Man on Fire comedy show, where he features fellow comedians such as Seyi Law and Gordons.
Almost forgotten, with such an astounding growth over the years, Bovi totals a net worth of over N600 million.
8. Gbenga Adeyinka
Gbenga Adeyinka is one of the most successful Nigerian comedians of all time. He’s best known for his stand-up comedy performances which combine both traditional Nigerian folklore with contemporary social commentary.
Adeyinka is a prominent member of the new generation of Nigerian comedians and is highly respected in the industry.
As the eighth richest comedian, Gbenga has a total net worth of over N500 million.
Adeyinka started as a presenter and events organizer before discovering his talent for comedy. He quickly rose to fame and became one of the most sought-after comedians in Nigeria.
His unique brand of comedy has earned him numerous accolades and recognition, including multiple awards from organizations such as AFRIMA, AMVCA, and Nollywood.
Adeyinka’s performances are often held at major events and concerts across Nigeria and abroad. He has been featured in several television shows, films, and other media and is well known for his philanthropic efforts and social activism.
9. Gordons
Gordons is a popular Nigerian comedian who has been in the comedy scene since the late 90s’. He started as an actor before transitioning to stand-up comedy. Since then, he has become one of the most sought-after comedians in Nigeria with an estimated net worth of over N400 million.
Gordons’ comedic style is witty and irreverent, with an emphasis on poking fun at societal ills. He is known for his parodies of Nigerian celebrities and politicians, which often make the audience laugh uproariously. His performances are not without controversy, however, as some people find his jokes offensive.
Gordons has won several awards, including the AMA Award for Best Comedian of the Year in 2008. He’s also a popular figure in the Nigerian media, appearing on television shows and radio programs regularly.
Additionally, he hosts the popular YouTube show ‘Gordons Comedy Club’ and has released several comedy albums.
10. Akpororo
Akpororo is the tenth most successful comedian in Nigeria with a total net worth of over N350 million.
Bowoto Jephthah Oluwatiseyifumi Tanimola, comically known as Akpororo, is known for his rib-cracking jokes and hilarious performance. He’s a native of Warri, Delta State, and graduated from the University of Jos, Plateau State.
Akpororo began his comedy career in 2008, performing at churches and open mic events. After gaining experience and honing his craft, he decided to go professional in 2011.
Akpororo’s comedy style can be described as “fast-paced” with a focus on giving his audience an entertaining and memorable experience. He mainly focuses on delivering clean jokes, often with a lot of physical comedy. His improvisational skills are notable and have become a master at incorporating the audience into his performances.
In 2012, Akpororo was awarded “Comedian of the Year” at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards, and since then he has become one of the most sought-after comedians in Nigeria.
Bowoto has performed at numerous high-profile events including the Glo Laffta Fest, AY Live Show, Laugh Out Loud, and Crack Ya Ribs. He’s also one of the main acts of the popular comedy show “Laugh Festival” which is aired on African Magic TV.
Akpororo is known for using his platform to support causes he believes in, such as promoting HIV/AIDS awareness and encouraging self-esteem among youths.
In addition, Akpororo has used his fame to establish the Akpororo Foundation to help underprivileged children in Warri, Delta State.
Overall, Akpororo is one of the leading comedians in Nigeria who uses laughter to promote social change and positive values. He has an undeniable talent for making people laugh and continues to bring joy and laughter to audiences globally.
A Brief Look At The Country’s Most Successful Comedians
Ali Baba
AY
Basketmouth
I Go Dye
Julius Agwu
Okey Bakassi
Bovi
Gbenga Adeyinka
Gordons
Akpororo
FAQ
Who Is The Richest Online Comedian In Nigeria?
When it comes to the world of Nigerian comedy, some standouts have made a major impact and have earned a good amount of money. Of all these comedians, one shines bright, Alibaba.
Ali Baba’s success has seen him become the first Nigerian to be featured on a list of the world’s top ten highest-paid comedians.
In addition to his regular stand-up shows, Ali Baba also earns endorsements and sponsored posts. He is a highly sought-after entertainer who continues to command high fees for his appearances.
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