Top 7 Comedians From Delta State
Delta State, located in the southern part of Nigeria, is known for its oil wealth, vibrant culture, and diverse ethnic groups such as the Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, and Anioma. Beyond its natural resources, Delta State has also become a hub of Nigerian entertainment, particularly in comedy. Over the years, the state has produced a wealth of comedic talent that has significantly shaped the Nigerian comedy landscape, making the people of Delta proud ambassadors of laughter and creativity.
Nigerian comedy has evolved from stage plays and stand-up performances to online skits and TV shows, with comedians using humor to address societal issues, entertain, and build massive fanbases. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top comedians from Delta State who have risen to prominence and made a significant impact in Nigeria's comedy scene.
1. AY (Ayo Makun)
Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY, is one of Nigeria's most successful and influential comedians, and he hails from Ifon in Delta State. AY started his career as an event planner and stand-up comedian, gaining popularity after working as Ali Baba’s personal assistant. His breakthrough came when he performed at Opa Williams’ “Night of a Thousand Laughs,” a platform that launched the careers of many top Nigerian comedians.
AY is known for his intelligent, observational comedy, often touching on political, social, and everyday life topics. His relatable humor and ability to connect with audiences from different backgrounds have earned him widespread appeal. He later expanded into acting, filmmaking, and show production, creating the hugely successful AY Live comedy show, which is one of the biggest in Nigeria.
AY also ventured into film, producing the “30 Days in Atlanta” series, which became one of the highest-grossing movies in Nigerian cinema. Through his career, AY has remained a major figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, and his success is a source of pride for Delta State.
2. Bovi Ugboma
Another comedic genius from Delta State is Bovi Ugboma, popularly known simply as Bovi. Born in Benin City, Edo State, Bovi has roots in Delta and is one of the leading figures in the Nigerian comedy scene. Bovi's journey to stardom began with his work as an actor and writer for the sitcom "Extended Family," which he produced and starred in. His acting experience gave him a solid foundation for his transition into stand-up comedy.
Bovi’s witty and sarcastic style of comedy has made him a household name in Nigeria. He is known for his sharp takes on politics, relationships, and societal issues, often poking fun at the absurdities of life in Nigeria. His comedy shows, like “Man on Fire”, have been well-received both in Nigeria and internationally.
Bovi’s influence goes beyond stand-up, as he has written and produced several comedy films and TV shows. His creativity, versatility, and ability to remain relevant in a fast-evolving entertainment landscape make him one of the top comedians from Delta State.
3. Gordons (Godwin Komone)
Godwin Komone, known by his stage name Gordons, is another heavyweight in the Nigerian comedy industry hailing from Delta State. Gordons' journey into comedy started in the church, where he was a choir leader before moving into entertainment. His breakthrough came when he performed on Opa Williams’ “Night of a Thousand Laughs” alongside other comedians like AY, Basketmouth, and I Go Dye.
Gordons is renowned for his unique brand of comedy, which blends humor with deep social commentary and religious satire. His jokes often address societal ills, politics, and religion in a way that is both thought-provoking and hilarious. Gordons has carved out a niche for himself with his intellectual and satirical style, and he is known for his energetic performances.
In addition to his stand-up shows, Gordons is also a motivational speaker, using his platform to inspire people and address critical issues in Nigeria. His ability to combine humor with meaningful messages has earned him a loyal following.
4. I Go Dye (Francis Agoda)
Francis Agoda, better known by his stage name I Go Dye, is another celebrated comedian from Delta State. Born and raised in Warri, I Go Dye’s comedic roots are deeply tied to the city's culture, which is known for its humor and wit. He started his comedy career early, performing at local events and shows before gaining national recognition.
I Go Dye’s comedy is characterized by his fast-paced delivery, sharp wit, and bold political commentary. He has been known to use his platform to speak truth to power, often addressing corruption, governance, and social issues in Nigeria with a humorous yet critical lens. His fearless approach to comedy has earned him respect within the industry, and he has performed on major stages both locally and internationally.
In addition to his comedy career, I Go Dye is also a humanitarian, using his influence to support various causes, including youth development and poverty alleviation.
5. Okey Bakassi (Okechukwu Onyegbule)
Though Okey Bakassi is often associated with Imo State, his deep connections to Delta State through marriage and long-term residence in the region make him an honorary Deltan. Okey Bakassi is one of Nigeria’s most respected comedians, known for his versatility as an actor, comedian, and TV host.
Okey Bakassi’s comedy is known for its blend of satire, storytelling, and social commentary. He often touches on issues related to relationships, politics, and everyday life in Nigeria. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Okey Bakassi has earned his place as a veteran in Nigerian comedy. His work on TV shows, films, and live performances continues to entertain and inspire audiences across Nigeria and the diaspora.
6. De Don (Iruvwe Okeremute)
De Don, born Iruvwe Okeremute, is another prominent comedian from Delta State. He gained popularity as one of the hosts of the “Ay Show” and quickly became known for his unique style of comedy that mixes satire with commentary on everyday Nigerian life. De Don is recognized for his observational humor, where he takes common situations and turns them into hilarious anecdotes.
With a knack for addressing societal issues in a relatable and humorous way, De Don has become a favorite among Nigerian audiences. His performances are a perfect blend of Warri street humor and intellectual wit, which has allowed him to stand out in the competitive comedy industry.
7. Real Warri Pikin (Anita Asuoha)
Anita Asuoha, known as Real Warri Pikin, is one of the most popular female comedians in Nigeria today, and she proudly hails from Warri in Delta State. Real Warri Pikin has built a brand around her bold and relatable humor, often discussing everyday struggles, relationships, and societal expectations with a humorous twist.
Real Warri Pikin’s journey to fame began with her skits on social media, where she quickly gained a massive following for her candid and hilarious takes on life. Her vibrant personality and willingness to tackle taboo topics have made her a favorite among fans. She has since expanded her career to include acting and hosting, making her one of the most versatile entertainers from Delta State.
Real Warri Pikin’s success is a testament to the growing influence of women in Nigerian comedy, and she continues to inspire the next generation of female comedians.
Conclusion
Delta State has produced some of Nigeria's most iconic comedians, and their influence on the entertainment industry is undeniable. From AY's massive success in stand-up and film production to Bovi's witty observations and Real Warri Pikin’s rise as a female force in comedy, these entertainers have not only made people laugh but also shaped the course of Nigerian comedy.
The success of these comedians is a reflection of Delta State’s rich cultural heritage and the humor embedded in the daily lives of its people. Whether addressing politics, societal norms, or everyday struggles, Delta State's comedians have used their talents to entertain, educate, and inspire, making their mark on Nigeria's entertainment industry and beyond. As the comedy scene continues to evolve, the comedians from Delta State will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of Nigerian comedy, bringing laughter to millions and representing the vibrant spirit of their state.