Within the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian entertainment, where creativity and perseverance entwine, 2024 emerged as a resounding tribute to the unwavering determination of its talented artists. Despite the prevailing economic challenges that reverberated across all sectors, including the creative realm, the industry’s stalwarts demonstrated remarkable resilience.
The year 2024 presented a formidable test for Nigeria’s entertainment landscape, as the economic downturn cast a long shadow over the creative sector. However, the industry’s leading lights rose to the challenge, showcasing their unshakeable spirit and capacity to thrive amidst adversity.
Yet, even as financial constraints threatened to dim the spotlight, Nigerian entertainers rose above adversity, crafting moments that resonated with audiences both at home and across the globe.
The challenges of the year were as palpable as its triumphs. From grappling with production setbacks to navigating personal losses and public scrutiny, the industry’s leading figures bore the weight of expectations with remarkable grace.
Their ability to transform struggles into stories of hope and inspiration underscored the essence of Nigerian creativity—a relentless drive to innovate, adapt, and excel, regardless of the odds.
It was a year where joy and sorrow danced in tandem, a poignant reminder of the fragility and brilliance of the creative world.
Shocking tragedies left a void that was impossible to fill, while feuds and controversies fuelled headlines, sparking debates and discussions that extended far beyond entertainment circles.
Yet, amidst the turbulence, there were moments of breathtaking artistry, heartwarming reconciliations, and milestones that placed Nigerian talent firmly on the global stage.
Some of the celebrities described it as a year when the brilliance of their craft shone through the challenges.
A year of loss
The entertainment industry mourned deeply in 2024, starting with the tragic death of Nollywood actor Junior Pope in April. While filming on Adanma Luke’s movie set, a boat accident claimed his life, sending shockwaves through the industry.
The grief compounded with the passing of Mr. Ibu, the beloved comic veteran whose roles brought joy to millions. Similarly, Sisi Quadri’s mysterious death after a brief illness left fans and colleagues devastated.
Adejumoke Aderounmu, known as Esther in Jenifa’s Diary, succumbed to illness at just 40 years old, while traditional leader extraordinaire Baba Olofa Ina (Deji Aderemi) lost his battle with cancer. The passing of Basi and Company star Ethel Ekpe and the death of Nollywood’s oldest actor, Charles Olumo ‘Agbako,’ at 101, marked the end of an era.
Friendships turned sour
The turbulence of the year wasn’t confined to losses or farewells; it extended deeply into fractured relationships, with some of the entertainment industry’s most celebrated friendships taking centre stage. The rift between Tiwa Savage and Davido shocked fans, quickly spiralling from subtle hints on social media to outright drama.
What began with mutual unfollowing soon escalated into a flurry of allegations, including claims of bullying and even threats to life. The situation became so intense that law enforcement got involved, casting a shadow over the once-close bond between these music icons.
Adding to the drama, the ongoing feud between Davido and Wizkid refused to lose momentum as it spilled over into 2024, leaving fans increasingly divided.
The two titans of Afrobeats continued their tug-of-war, with their public and indirect shots at each other fuelling debates and social media wars among their devoted supporters. Each new exchange kept the rivalry alive, making it one of the most enduring and polarising stories in contemporary Nigerian entertainment.
These fractured relationships highlighted how fame and pressure can test even the strongest bonds, with the public eager for resolution yet often contributing to the chaos through unrelenting scrutiny and commentary.
The Bobrisky Saga
Bobrisky’s legal troubles were one of the most talked-about events of 2024. The controversial influencer faced a prison sentence, which only amplified debates around his flamboyant lifestyle and polarizing persona.
His dramatic court appearances became media spectacles, drawing sharp divides between supporters and critics. Allegations of judicial manipulation surfaced, with some accusing powerful figures of using the case to send a broader societal message, while others called out perceived leniency in handling Bobrisky’s prior legal run-ins.
Public outcry reflected the complexities of his case, intertwining questions about justice, privilege, and societal norms in Nigeria’s evolving entertainment landscape.
Grammy Disappointment
What should have been a triumphant milestone for Nigerian music turned into a bittersweet moment when eight artists, including Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Ayra Starr, received Grammy nominations but left the ceremony without a single win.
Fans expressed their disappointment, lamenting the disparity between the global recognition of Afrobeats’ influence and the lack of tangible rewards. The discussion sparked debates on social media about the challenges African artists face on international platforms, with many urging for better support and representation.
Lizzy Anjorin’s ordeal
For actress-turned-businesswoman Lizzy Anjorin, the year was marked by turbulence as controversy loomed over her. Accusations surfaced of her making a fake transfer for goods worth ₦91,000 and stealing gold, allegations she firmly denied.
Instead, Anjorin pointed fingers at her industry rival, Iyabo Ojo, accusing her of orchestrating a smear campaign to tarnish her reputation. The drama quickly spilled onto social media, captivating fans and critics alike as both sides exchanged heated words. The incident became a lightning rod for discussions about rivalry and personal ethics within Nollywood.
Portable’s tumultuous year
True to form, controversial singer Portable remained a regular fixture in the headlines, often for dramatic reasons. The singer found himself embroiled in public altercations, one of which landed him in the hospital.
His heartfelt plea, “Na only the dead una dey find justice for?” struck a chord with fans, underscoring the struggles he faced in a year filled with challenges. Adding to his woes, Portable’s rocky relationship with his ex-wife, Queen Dammy, fuelled further speculation as their personal issues became public fodder. Despite it all, Portable’s resilience and candid approach kept him in the spotlight.
Yul Edochie’s family struggles
Nollywood actor Yul Edochie faced a difficult year as his strained relationship with his estranged wife, May, remained a focal point for public discourse.
The situation came to a head when Yul’s emotional posthumous birthday tribute to their late son, Kambilichukwu, reignited conversations about grief and family dynamics. Fans were divided in their opinions, with some showing support for Yul’s expressions of pain while others questioned his intentions.
The incident served as a sombre reminder of the complexities that come with balancing personal tragedy under the gaze of public scrutiny.
A year of weddings
In contrast to the year’s many challenges, love managed to shine through in grand celebrations. Afrobeat star Davido’s marriage to his long-time partner, Chioma Rowland, became the highlight of the year, with their lavish Lagos ceremony generating immense buzz across social media.
Later, Prudential Gabriel’s opulent wedding in Abuja blended glamour with traditional elegance, rounding off the year on a high note. These events served as a reminder that even amid turbulence, joyous moments can prevail.
Global Recognition
Chidimma Adetshina made history as the first Nigerian to achieve the title of first runner-up at the Miss Universe pageant. Her intelligence, poise, and grace not only earned her global recognition but also elevated her as a source of pride for Nigerians.
Critics who had initially questioned her capabilities were silenced, with many celebrating her achievement as a significant step forward for the country on the world stage.
Celebrity clashes
The year was rife with celebrity feuds, and each confrontation seemed more dramatic than the last. One of the most explosive incidents involved actress Dayo Amusa, who expressed outrage over Bobrisky being awarded “Best Dressed Female” at a movie premiere. Amusa’s criticism quickly spiralled into a public spat with actor Femi Adebayo, whom she accused, along with event organizers, of undermining women’s efforts in the industry.
Adebayo’s fiery retort: “If my success is your problem, you can never have rest of mind,” only added fuel to the fire. The feud culminated in a heated Instagram live session, leaving fans buzzing and further polarizing opinions.
Meanwhile, PSquare’s Peter and Paul Okoye reignited their sibling rivalry with allegations of fraud. Paul accused Peter of involving the EFCC in their affairs, while Peter countered with claims of shady dealings regarding royalties. Their dispute over the song “Winning,” which both claimed as their own, spilled onto social media, deepening their rift.
VeryDarkMan, an online critic, targeted rapper Falz and his father, Femi Falana, in a legal drama that captivated audiences. Accusations of defamation and secret dealings involving Bobrisky’s alleged prison pardon fuelled the controversy, resulting in a courtroom showdown.
Reconciliations
Amidst the chaos, there were moments of healing. Nollywood brothers Kunle and Aremu Afolayan reconciled after years of animosity, brought together by their mother’s passing.
Similarly, Angela Okorie and Zubby Michael mended their strained relationship, providing a silver lining to a tumultuous year
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