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Infinity Media
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Top 10 Richest Female Musicians In Nigeria According To Forbes
The Nigerian music industry is one of the most vibrant and profitable in Africa, with artists gaining fame not just locally but on the global stage. While much attention is often placed on male musicians, Nigeria is also home to exceptionally talented and wealthy female musicians. Many Nigerian female artists have made significant strides in the industry, building not only impressive careers but also substantial net worths through music sales, brand endorsements, performances, and investments.
In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 richest female musicians in Nigeria, based on earnings, assets, brand endorsements, and Forbes estimates where available.
1. Tiwa Savage - Estimated Net Worth: $10 Million
Often hailed as the Queen of Afrobeats, Tiwa Savage has paved the way for female artists in the Nigerian music industry. Known for her captivating vocals and powerful stage presence, Tiwa has built an impressive career both in Nigeria and internationally. After signing with Mavin Records, her debut album, Once Upon a Time, brought her critical acclaim and commercial success. Today, she has collaborations with global stars like Beyoncé, Wizkid, and Brandy.
Tiwa Savage also has lucrative endorsement deals with companies such as Pepsi, Forte Oil, and Konga, significantly adding to her wealth. Her switch to Universal Music Group in 2019 further boosted her international reach, making her one of the wealthiest female artists in Nigeria.
2. Yemi Alade - Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
Nicknamed “Mama Africa,” Yemi Alade gained widespread recognition after winning the Peak Talent Show in 2009. She shot to stardom with her hit song “Johnny,” which has garnered millions of views on YouTube. Yemi Alade’s musical success has led to international tours and a solid fan base across Africa and Europe.
Aside from music, Yemi Alade has endorsement deals with companies like Close-Up, Globacom, and Luc Belaire. Her smart investments in real estate and her active brand collaborations make her one of Nigeria’s wealthiest female musicians.
3. Simi - Estimated Net Worth: $3 Million
Simi started her career as a gospel singer, but her transition to Afro-pop with hit songs like “Jamb Question” and “Tiff” put her in the spotlight. With a unique voice and talent for blending genres, Simi has gained widespread recognition and has released multiple successful albums, including Simisola and Omo Charlie Champagne.
Simi’s wealth is boosted by endorsement deals, including a high-profile contract with Opera Mini and Globacom. Additionally, she is known for her work as a sound engineer, which adds to her income and makes her one of Nigeria’s wealthiest female artists.
4. Chidinma Ekile - Estimated Net Worth: $2.8 Million
Since winning Project Fame West Africa in 2010, Chidinma Ekile, popularly known as “Miss Kedike,” has remained a beloved figure in the Nigerian music industry. Known for her soulful voice, she quickly gained success with hits like “Kedike” and “Emi Ni Baller.”
Chidinma’s brand partnerships with MTN and other brands, coupled with her recent shift to gospel music, continue to solidify her standing and wealth. Her ability to stay relevant and versatile has kept her among the richest female musicians in Nigeria.
5. Waje - Estimated Net Worth: $2 Million
Waje (born Aituaje Iruobe) has been a powerful voice in Nigerian music since she first emerged on the scene. Known for her vocal range, Waje’s music blends R&B with Afrobeat, creating a unique sound that has won her fans worldwide. Some of her most notable works include “Onye” and “I Wish,” and she’s collaborated with major artists like P-Square, M.I, and Diamond Platnumz.
In addition to her music career, Waje has a number of endorsements and has also ventured into acting and business. She’s involved in various investments, which, along with her music earnings, have contributed to her impressive wealth.
6. Niniola - Estimated Net Worth: $1.8 Million
Dubbed the “Queen of Afro-House,” Niniola has carved out a niche for herself with her unique fusion of Afrobeat and house music. Her breakout single “Maradona” won her international acclaim, including recognition from Drake, who played her song on his OVO radio show.
Niniola’s success is largely attributed to her music royalties, performance fees, and endorsement deals. With a loyal fan base and a distinctive sound, Niniola continues to grow her influence and wealth in the industry.
7. Omawumi - Estimated Net Worth: $1.5 Million
Omawumi rose to fame as a runner-up on West African Idols in 2007. Known for her powerful vocals and charismatic personality, she quickly made a name for herself with hits like “Bottom Belle” and “If You Ask Me.” Omawumi’s music success, coupled with endorsement deals from brands like Globacom, Konga, and Malta Guinness, has solidified her position in the industry.
Omawumi also acts and has appeared in several Nollywood films, which adds to her income. Her multiple streams of revenue make her one of the wealthiest female artists in Nigeria.
8. Teni - Estimated Net Worth: $1.2 Million
Known for her infectious energy and versatility, Teni (born Teniola Apata) took the music industry by storm with hits like “Case” and “Uyo Meyo.” Her unique approach to Afrobeat, combining humor and storytelling, has earned her a massive following and recognition across Africa.
Teni has secured endorsement deals with brands such as Budweiser, TomTom, and Tecno, which have contributed to her wealth. Her continued musical success and popularity have kept her among the richest female artists in Nigeria.
9. Seyi Shay - Estimated Net Worth: $1 Million
Seyi Shay (born Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua) is a talented singer and songwriter with international experience, having previously worked in the UK music scene before establishing herself in Nigeria. Known for her hits “Yolo Yolo” and “Right Now,” Seyi Shay’s music combines Afrobeat with elements of R&B and reggae.
Seyi Shay has endorsement deals with brands like Pepsi and Barcardi, and her musical career has garnered her considerable wealth. Her background in songwriting and music production has also opened doors for her in the industry, allowing her to generate income beyond her own music releases.
10. Niyola - Estimated Net Worth: $800,000
Niyola (born Eniola Akinbo) is known for her soulful voice and thoughtful lyrics. Formerly signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), she gained popularity with hits like “Toh Bad” and “Go On.” While she may not be as prolific in recent years, Niyola’s talent and contributions to Nigerian music remain significant.
Niyola has worked on a number of projects and collaborations, and her wealth primarily comes from her music and a few endorsements. Her career achievements continue to earn her a spot among Nigeria’s richest female musicians.
Conclusion
The Nigerian music industry is bursting with talented female artists who are not only making waves locally but also internationally. From Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade to Simi and Teni, these women have achieved incredible success and built substantial wealth through their passion for music. With endorsement deals, international collaborations, and successful investments, these female musicians are examples of how talent, hard work, and strategic partnerships can lead to financial success.
These artists have all paved the way for future generations, proving that women in Nigeria’s music industry can reach impressive heights and accumulate wealth while inspiring millions worldwide. Whether you’re a fan or an aspiring musician, the journeys of these top 10 richest female musicians in Nigeria serve as a source of inspiration and a testament to the vast opportunities available in the music industry.
