10 Nigerian Celebrities Who Started Their Careers On Social Media
Social media has transformed from a simple way to stay in touch with friends into a powerful platform for building careers and achieving dreams. In Nigeria, platforms like Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok have completely changed the entertainment industry, creating a new wave of celebrities who didn’t need traditional auditions or industry connections to make it big. Instead, their talent, creativity, and consistency turned them into household names.
From hilarious skits to insightful social commentary, these digital pioneers have used their unique voices to build successful careers. Their stories prove that social media isn’t just for fun—it’s a game-changer for those willing to put in the work. In this article, we explore 10 Nigerian celebrities who rose to fame through social media and are now shaping the entertainment industry.
1. Mr. Macaroni – The Comedy King
Debo Adebayo, popularly known as Mr. Macaroni, shot to fame with his funny skits that capture everyday Nigerian life. His catchphrases, like “You are doing well!,” quickly became viral, making him a fan favorite. But beyond the laughs, Mr. Macaroni uses his platform for social activism, especially during the #EndSARS protests. His success shows that social media isn’t just about entertainment—it can also be a tool for change.
2. Taaooma – The Queen of Family Comedy
Maryam Apaokagi, better known as Taaooma, built her brand by playing multiple characters in her hilarious family-themed skits. Her videos, which focus on Nigerian parenting and everyday struggles, resonate with millions. From shooting simple videos on her phone to securing brand deals and launching businesses, Taaooma’s rise proves that consistency and relatability are key to success.
3. Broda Shaggi – Street Humor King
Samuel Perry, aka Broda Shaggi, gained popularity with his energetic and exaggerated street comedy. His catchphrase, “Oya hit me!,” became an instant hit. What makes him stand out is his ability to mix humor with real-life struggles, making his content both entertaining and relatable. Today, he has expanded into acting and music, proving that social media fame can open doors to even bigger opportunities.
4. Maraji – The Master of Characters
Gloria Oloruntobi, known as Maraji, started with lip-sync videos before discovering her talent for acting out multiple characters in a single skit. Her sharp observations of everyday Nigerian life, combined with her flawless character switches, have made her one of the most respected content creators in the industry. Her journey shows that authenticity and originality always win.
5. James Brown
James Brown became famous after a viral video and turned that attention into a full-fledged career. With his flamboyant personality, colorful outfits, and entertaining videos, he has built a strong social media presence. His story highlights the power of embracing one’s uniqueness and using it to create a personal brand.
6. Sydney Talker – The Towel Guy
Sydney Egere, better known as Sydney Talker, is instantly recognizable thanks to his signature white towel and exaggerated facial expressions. His creative and unpredictable skits have earned him a massive following. Beyond comedy, he has ventured into music and business, proving that social media success can lead to bigger opportunities.
7. Lasisi Elenu – The Voice of Lagos
Nosa Afolabi, or Lasisi Elenu, gained fame using a Snapchat filter that exaggerated his mouth while he ranted about everyday frustrations. His skits, which blend humor with real-life issues, have made him a favorite among Nigerians. His success shows that a unique style and a fresh perspective can set a content creator apart from the rest.
8. Ikorodu Bois – Creativity on a Budget
Unlike individual creators, Ikorodu Bois is a group of young boys who recreate famous movie scenes using homemade props. Their raw creativity and ability to turn everyday items into cinematic masterpieces have earned them international recognition. Their story proves that talent and hard work can shine, regardless of resources.
9. Tacha – From Reality TV to Digital Domination
Natacha Akide, better known as Tacha, gained fame on Big Brother Naija, but it was her social media strategy that turned her into a lasting brand. With a bold personality and strong engagement with her followers, she has built a business empire. Tacha’s story is a perfect example of how reality TV exposure can be leveraged into long-term digital success.
10. Pamilerin Adegoke – The Twitter Influencer
Pamilerin Adegoke made his name not through videos, but through thought-provoking and humorous tweets. His sharp commentary on social and cultural issues has earned him a strong following. His rise highlights that success on social media isn’t just about visuals—sometimes, a well-timed tweet can be just as powerful.
The Power of Social Media in Entertainment
The success of these Nigerian celebrities proves that social media is more than just a pastime—it’s a launchpad for talent. With creativity, persistence, and a smartphone, anyone can turn their passion into a career. These influencers have not only entertained millions but have also inspired countless others to take a chance on their own dreams.
As Nigeria continues to grow as a digital powerhouse, the stories of these social media stars serve as a roadmap for the next generation of creators. Whether you’re an aspiring content creator or simply a fan, one thing is clear—the future of entertainment is being shaped online, and the next big star could be just one viral post away.
