When Rema put out his sophomore album HEIS in 2024, the internet reached for a label almost immediately. Some called it Mara, some filed it under EDM, and some claimed it was the comeback of the Pangolo or hyper-fast street music of the Terry G era. It’s none of those. He’s an Afrofusion artist who dedicated a single project to a different sonic style. But one album is an experiment; it doesn’t make a new genre, let alone spark a resurgence of a style that was never a formal genre to begin with.

That’s the pattern running across Nigerian contemporary music right now: a talking drum under a synth line, a chorus that switches into YorĂčbĂĄ or other local languages before sliding back into English or not at all. These are called texture in music, and they don’t reclassify a song. A guitar interpolation from the 1970s doesn’t make a song Highlife. It’s Highlife because the artists follow the genre’s specific logic, and this goes for other music genres.

None of this is a knock on modern production. A Dance, Fuji, Juju or Highlife song can run through modern mixing, drum machines and whatever the studio has, but modernity doesn’t nullify a genre; what does is half-measures that pull the aesthetic without its structure. Commitment is the real test here. An artist can make a modern, current-sounding song and still be, principally, playing by an older genre’s rules. The Cavemen are a prime example of this, having successfully committed to the modern interpretation of Highlife rather than just borrowing its elements. In contrast, a trending track like is playing a different game: it borrows the elements of the ‘80s Boogie and Electronic music (like Chris Okotie and Mike Okri did), but overlays it with modern YorĂčbĂĄ flavours. Both are great, but only one is building a genre. However, what’s happening right now, at large, isn’t that.

So this cluster of nostalgia-driven songs doesn’t have a real name yet, and it shouldn’t. What’s happening is closer to sketching the sound than building and completing. Artists are testing ideas from a place of curiosity and nostalgia, not from a settled artistic position. As we saw with Rema’s HEIS, one album is a brilliant evidence of curiosity, not the birth of a movement. Before this can be called a resurgence or even a new genre, there needs to be consistency: an artist returning to the same well more than once. A handful of one-off experiments running in parallel shouldn’t get mistaken for a pattern.

Call it what it actually is for now: Afro and the mix of other genres it fuses. Contemporary artists are using traditional Nigerian sound as a mood board — borrowing a synth here, or a YorĂčbĂĄ folk chant there, much like Solana does on “OKUNKUN.” That’s allowed. A working title only needs to change once a dedicated subculture forms around a sound. The audience has to identify with it completely, not just to enjoy it as a temporary flavour inside a broader genre. Cruel Santino achieved a version of this with his experimental, industrial-AltĂ© Subaru Boys: FINAL HEAVEN album. He built a universe of Punk and video game soundscapes that his audience aggressively identifies with. That’s what creating a subculture actually requires. But for the broader industry right now, that’s a level of dedication that’s yet to happen, and it begs another discourse that even goes beyond just music.

Why are creators and consumers obsessed with labelling everything in the first place?

For a logical reason: cultural exchange. A label functions like a shipping tag. It’s easier to move something across borders and languages when it travels with a name attached. “Afrobeats” moves in a way that “a song from Lagos” never will. A label compresses the whole of a cultural context into something a stranger can grab onto fast, and that matters when the goal is export.

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A second explanation brings us to our post-modern reality of things running through the algorithm. Since social media reorganised itself around interest instead of around who you actually know, labels became how creators attach an identity to their work, sometimes on purpose, sometimes without fully clocking that they’re doing it. Platforms use labels and tags to sort content and decide who gets shown what.

Ifoghale Wilson, a designer and visual artist, digs deeper: “Culture is really fragmented, so creators can’t lean on the old faithfuls. They have to stimulate little corners of the internet best they can. And labels work in that regard, especially when there are loads of listeners who identify with that label for some reason.” By claiming these isolated corners, the label becomes a dividing line. It signals who’s part of the subculture and who isn’t.

As music journalist and culture curator Ayomide “AOT2” Tayo points out, this is how labels create a sense of exclusivity. But given the current structure of Nigerian music, that exclusivity is usually just a sugar rush; sweet for a moment, but quick to fade. AOT2 adds, “the ones that last are propagated by a culture, not an individual.” Exclusivity on its own doesn’t build anything that lasts, nor does it produce a renaissance. What exclusivity builds is cults. Look at Cruel Santino’s Subaru Boys: FINAL HEAVEN — his extreme commitment to a nichĂ©, hyper-specific sound built a fiercely loyal cult following, but it remained intentionally an exclusive space. It’s a great achievement, but not a widespread cultural movement. Inclusivity is where culture-building is: through a sound becoming porous enough that more people can step into it without needing to be the 1%.

At the core of this trend lies the audience, and exactly why there’s such a sudden appetite for this blend of modern and traditional sounds right now.

Part of the answer, according to writer and culture consultant The Jide Taiwo, is about the country itself. He says, “Nigeria, at its core, is a blend of many things, languages and histories that don’t always agree with each other but somehow share one element. In a postmodern era, things bleed into each other far more easily than they did thirty years ago. The line between old and new, traditional and contemporary, blurs more easily now, and that blurring shows up in the music because it shows up in everything else the culture touches.”

Audiences, often without realising it, are drawn to a blend of something familiar from a past era, plus wherever the culture currently stands. Using “OKUNKUN” again as an example. The audience is doing more than just responding to its good, catchy hook; it’s relishing a trusted popular music structure that’s wrapped around a cultural moment.

Put all the aforementioned factors side by side, and a single element starts to show through all of them. The genre resurgence question stays unresolved because it sits entirely downstream of two other larger forces: algorithmic fragmentation and the audience’s appetite for nostalgia. Labels are reached for because an algorithm-run culture needs a flag planted fast, and a listener needs a name to identify with faster than an artist needs to build a genre’s identity. Whether we like it or not, the audience’s appetite, not a commitment to older genres, is what most artists are actually responding to when they mix the old with the new. It’s capitalisation on what the audience wants, not a stylistic pledge.

Which is also why stylistics, not language, are what actually build a genre. Singing a hook in YorĂčbĂĄ doesn’t make a YorĂčbĂĄ genre song. Most of the new-age songs trying to recreate a classic sound or mimic a traditional genre’s style rarely leave anything behind. They come, generate a burst of excitement among younger listeners, earn a nod of recognition from older ones, make some noise and slowly disappear. This isn’t because the artists lack talent, but rather because these songs are built to feed that same nostalgia-driven appetite described above instead of being rooted in genuine genre commitment.

There’s a mimetic element in all of this worth naming plainly. Music, first and foremost, is expression. Genre is our rudimentary way of sorting that expression into something we can talk about and file next to other things. Across artificial intelligence, memes and mimetic language generally, the pattern for what sticks stays consistent: a single idea compressed into something that travels easily, that a person can grab in a short time without losing the point.

Virality runs on giving people something new wrapped around something familiar, which is why old-school cool keeps resonating no matter how many production cycles pass. What happens if this appetite eventually goes deeper, past novelty into real commitment, is hard to say. Maybe it grows into something sustained, or it stays exactly what it is right now, just a moment. Nobody knows yet, and any certainty here is mere guessing.

The genre question should be about attention instead, because attention right now runs on nostalgia. And it isn’t even remotely unique to music. It shows up anywhere people try to guess what’s coming next in fashion, film or other art forms. People are constantly negotiating their relationship with the past, engaging with one era and disengaging from another, over and over. It’s the same cycle of human consumption as it’s always been. The internet/algorithm just made it faster.

So the next time an artist like Rema or Solana drops an experiment, we don’t need to invent a new genre to understand it. We just need to pay attention.

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Our countrymen might be absent but the love for football transcends patriotism. From Portugal to England, Argentina to Senegal, we asked Nigerians what countries they are adopting for the World Cup.

France — Excel, 23, Male

I’m supporting France because of Mbappe. They jokingly call him a dictator but I just think he’s misunderstood and I am rooting for him to win two world cups before thirty which would be an insane achievement. I am also supporting Portugal because Bruno Fernandez plays for them and also plays for Manchester United, the club I support. His winning will improve his chances of winning the Balon d’Or.

Portugal — Divine, 26, Male 

I’m supporting Portugal because I think Ronaldo is the greatest football player in the world and he needs to win a World Cup to prove the naysayers wrong.

France — Alpha, 24, Male 

I’m supporting France because the whole team is basically made up of Africans. If Nigeria can’t make it in at least let me support a country with African representation.

No Allegiance — Tobi, 24, Male

I’m supporting any country with the hottest players, my allegiance lies with beauty.

Norway — Didi, 29, Female  

I’m supporting Norway because I think Erling Haaland is the hottest man ever. African countries are playing nonsense. No rage, no desire, no passion.

Portugal — Inem, 25, Male 

I’m supporting Portugal because of Bruno Fernandez and Brazil because they have the most beautiful women.

Norway — Nic, 26, Male 

I’m supporting Norway because I also support Manchester City and Haaland plays for both. I’m dedicated to both club and country.

Argentina and Spain — Ebube, 26, Male

I support both countries because of Messi and Yamal. They’re the chosen ones so any of them winning is a win for me.

Portugal — Becca, 24, Female 

My real support is for Ronaldo because that’s my GOAT.

France — Kenyo, 24, Male

I support France because the supreme leader Mbappe is their captain.

Which country do you support? Let us know. 

From thrilling epics, romantic entanglements and hostage dramas, Nollywood has back-to-back hits on Netflix. If you’re looking for what to watch on the streamer this month, here are the 10 best Nigerian movies to watch this July.

10. (2024)

Running time: 1h 40m

Director: Toka McBaror

Genre: Comedy, Thriller

Akpos (Ayo Makun) is on his very first day as a waiter in a posh Abuja hotel hosting a big event for the Minister of Poverty Alleviation (Shaffy Bello). A heavily armed ex-army captain (Bucci Franklin) and his boys hijack the building and take everybody hostage. Then it goes from kidnapping to a revolution, forcing everyone to answer the question: Who is responsible for this country’s problems?

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9. (2022)

Running time: 1h 50m

Director: Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijani

Genre: Epic, Thriller

Oba Adegbite (Odunlade Adekola) just wants to enjoy his new crown, but a powerful thief, Ageshinkole (Femi Adebayo), shows up to scatter his kingdom. Ageshinkole is such a menace that he beats up witches, wizards, warriors and literally everyone the King sends. The problem gets so big that the King forces his head hunter (Ibrahim Chatta) on a suicide mission to bring the thief’s head or lose his own.

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8. (2023)

Running time: 1h 55m

Director: Kunle Afolayan

Genre: Drama

Four stubborn friends (Ruby Akubueze, Kayode Ojuolape, Fawad Aina and Ebiesuwa Oluwaseyi) go to play in the mountains and somehow stumble on a bag of diamonds. Tempted and excited, they take it for themselves. But the diamonds come with wahala. They belong to some dangerous people who’ll go to any length to get them back. Now, these kids have gone from planning their new, rich life to running around for survival.

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7. (2021)

Running time: 1h 52m

Director: Idea Chukwuma “Onesoul” Innocent

Genre: Epic

Trained by her dad, Ogbu (Enyinna Nwigwe), Igbinogun (Damilare Kuku) leads a gang of misfit thieves to steal from the rich and give to the poor. But the problem starts when she embarrasses the Prince (Blossom Chukwujekwu) so badly in battle that the man literally deletes himself out of shame. The kingdom is upside down and Igbinogun suddenly has to step up and become the leader of her village.

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6. (2022)

Running time: 1h 36m

Director: Date Olaitan

Genre: Horror, Thriller

Busola (Immaculata Oko-Kasum) thinks she has secured a soft life when she falls for Tunji (Efa Iwara), a fine boy from a super-rich family. But the red flags start waving almost immediately. Tunji’s family is hiding some dark, creepy secrets, and Busola quickly realises that marrying into this kind of wealth is far from a blessing. 

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5. (2023)

Running time: 1h 36m

Director: Walter Banger

Genre: Drama, Romance

Toyin (Dakore Egbuson-Akande) and Uche (Nse Ikpe-Etim) are lifelong besties until one man, Sunday (Oris Erhuero), enters the chat and scatters everything. It first starts as a harmless crush, then turns into a messy love triangle that tests the limits of their sisterhood.

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4. (2022)

Running time: 1h 28m

Director: Walter Taylaur

Genre: Drama

Brume (Daniel Etim-Effiong) is battling life problems: his mom just died, his wife’s dealing with infertility, and two corrupt policemen (Frank Donga and Toyin Oshinaike) are extorting him. Then, the worst happens: his wife is murdered by the officer. Brume teams up with his guy, Dammy (Deyemi Okanlawon), to pose as a flamboyant yahoo boy, lure the corrupt cops and kidnap them. From there, it becomes a chaotic hostage drama fueled by revenge.

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3. (2025)

Running time: 1h 39m

Director: Moses Inwang

Genre: Drama, Romance

Adaora (Nse Ikpe-Etim) is a rich, single lady who falls for fine boy stylist Jaiye (James Gardiner) just to escape family pressure. But that’s a huge mistake because Jaiye is scum. He and his partner Anna (Erica Nlewedim) scam Adaora blind, force her to get an abortion, fake his death, and set her up for jail. Adaora gets out, catches him living large with a new family, and goes into revenge mode and wreaks havoc.

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2. (2022)

Running time: 1h 30m

Director: Kayode Kasum

Genre: Drama

Otas (Chimezie Imo) is just trying to go to NYSC camp when a tragic accident leaves a friend dead, and the police wrongfully pin the death on him as a murder. With Otas locked up, his mom, Adesuwa (Dakore Egbuson-Akande), is forced to confront her own dark past and trauma tied to Nigerian police brutality.

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1. (2025)

Running time: 1h 51m

Director: Daniel Etim Effiong

Genre: Crime, Drama

Gosi (Daniel Etim-Effiong) travels to Ekiti for his best guy Fola’s (Kunle Remi) wedding to Derin (Genoveva Umeh). The wedding is beautiful until Nigeria happens. On the drive to the hotel, gunmen disguised as herdsmen ambush their convoy. They kill the groom and drag Gosi, Derin and a bunch of other motorists into the bush to demand ransom. Long story short, this is a direct look at the ghetto that is Nigeria’s insecurity crisis.

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Now, with many listeners currently vibrating to the sounds of his brand-new 2026 album, KING COAL, it’s only right that I pay homage to the elder statesman of Afropop. So, I took on the task of ranking his top 40 greatest Wande Coal songs of all time. All lovers of King Coal’s music should gather here.

40. “Ebelebe” (feat. Wizkid) (2023)

After years of fans asking for another collaboration, Wande Coal and Wizkid finally reunited on “Ebelebe” in 2023, and the chemistry hadn’t aged a day.  It’s a bouncy Afropop song with mostly melodies and little lyrics about women and good times. Only a few artists understand melody like these guys.

39. “Dem Go Pay” (2025)

Wande Coal trolls his pocket watchers, flexes his rich circle and demands his dues in this song. If you’re coming to him for any service, you’d better come along with handsome cash in hand.

38. “Will You Be Mine” (with LeriQ) (2018)

On this LeriQ-produced love song, Wande Coal leans into the kind of songwriting that first made him one of Afrobeats’ romantic voices. Wande’s vocals float over gentle instrumentation. Every line has room to breathe, letting his buttery R&B vocals become pure magic.

37. “Adura” (2015)

This is a spiritual bop from the Wanted album. It’s great because Wande Coal took us to church but still made sure our shoulders were bouncing. A prayer point has never grooved this hard.

36. “Tur-key Nla” (2017)

Wande Coal makes a song for women with thick thighs. It’s an unfiltered club wrecker.

35. “Iskaba” (with DJ Tunez) (2016)

Teaming up with DJ Tunez, he made a song that became almost impossible to escape in clubs, parties and weddings. His catchy hook does most of the heavy lifting, proving that he has an unmatched gift for writing melodies that stick. It’s one of his biggest hits.

34. “Monster” (2015)

One of the best songs from Wanted, this tells us how money, hustle and success bring out the toughness in a man. The song’s memorable chorus and wide appeal make it bang.

33. “Iyawo Mi” (2015)

“Iyawo Mi” is Wande Coal making promises of love and turning romance into an irresistible jam.

32. “My Way” (2015)

Produced by Maleekberry, “My Way” is Wande Coal professing love and making promises of all he’ll do for his lover. He has made plans and he’s convincing her to let them do it his way.

31. “Superwoman” (2015)

“Superwoman” is a tribute to the strength and beauty of women. Its songwriting and rich vocals have earned it a place among the finest love songs in his catalogue.

30. “Same Shit” (feat. AKA) (2015)

“Same Shit” blends afropop and hip-hop without either artist overshadowing the other. Wande sings about making money, living rich and lifestyle, while late South African rapper AKA emphasises it with a sharp verse.

29. “Wanted” (2015)

This title track of Wanted captures Wande Coal at a turning point in his career. After leaving Mo’Hits and navigating music without a label, he returned with an album that reaffirmed his presence in Afropop. It’s a fitting centrepiece for the album.

28. “Ballerz” (2017)

“Ballerz” became one of Wande Coal’s biggest post-Mushin 2 Mo’Hits hits, embracing the extravagant spirit of enjoyment. Its catchy hook and playful lyrics made it an instant favourite at parties and on the radio.

27. “Sexcellence” (2015)

This is spicy and sensual Wande Coal. Although technically a freestyle, it’s great because it shows off his mature, grown-and-sexy persona. Despite the song’s hyper-fast tempo, he gets seductive without missing a single step.

26. “Come My Way” (2021)

The song is built on confidence and the message that authenticity will always outlast trends. It reflects Wande Coal fully comfortable in his own lane.

READ NEXT: The 20 Best Nigerian Songs of 2026 So Far, Ranked

25. “Ode Lo Like” (2019)

This song title translates to “They like fools” in Yoruba. It’s a light social commentary and mid-tempo groove about people like those they can take for granted. It can be applied to almost every relationship or transaction.

24. “Kpe Paso” (feat. Olamide) (2023)

This song brings Baddo and Wande together to give us an instant owambe classic. Wande Coal’s melodies stay ever sharp and Olamide’s street charisma is unmistakable. Fuji-pop at its finest.

23. “Ashimapeyin” (2015)

On “Ashimapeyin”, which means “We will call you,” Wande Coal celebrates ambition and success and tells haters he isn’t currently on their time and would call them when there’s a need for them, AKA never.

22. “Baby Hello” (2014)

This is a fast-paced Wande Coal that attempts to call on his love interest. The way Wande rides this beat proves that every lung is built differently.

21. “Dearly” (feat. Qing Madi) (2026)

This is no doubt a beautiful generational bridge. This song links up with the Gen-Z vocalist Qing Madi to make one of the best love songs of the year. It shows his ability to evolve while remaining one of Afropop’s most compelling singers.

20. “Amorawa” (feat. Burna Boy) (2013)

Before Burna Boy became a global superstar, he teamed up with Wande Coal on “Amorawa,” a lively Afropop-dancehall song that carries the message of “real recognises real.” You can call this members-only music if you like.

19. “Aye Dun” (feat. Skuki) (2014)

Wande Coal tasted and knew he’s never going back to poverty. In between success and enjoyment, the song reflects gratitude for life’s wins. “Life is sweet”, as the title says in English.

18. “Rotate” (2013)

“Rotate” is Wande Coal’s instruction to whine your waist. It’s driven by groove, and the production takes centre stage. One of his standout singles from the early 2010s.

17. “Again” (2020)

Few comeback records have landed as perfectly as “Again.” It was released after a long stretch without a major solo hit, and it became one of Nigeria’s biggest records of 2020. It introduced him to a new generation while reminding older fans why they fell in love with his music. Easily one of the defining songs of his career.

16. “Gentility” (with melvitto) (2019)

Production by melvitto. Vocal performance by Wande Coal. This is a sleeper hit that randomly blew up on TikTok years later. “Gentility no be stupidity” is a life motto.

15. “So Mi So” (2018)

“So Mi So’ leans into Wande Coal’s playful side, pairing flirtatious lyrics with breezy Afropop production by Juls. It rewards repeat listens with its infectious chorus.

14. “Been Long You Saw” (2015)

This track is one of the hidden gems from his Wanted album. “Been Long You Saw” captures the excitement and awkwardness of reconnecting with his fans after a long absence.

13. “Who Born the Maga” (feat. K-Switch) (2009)

“Who Born the Maga” became one of the standout records from Mushin 2 Mo’Hits. It’s built around humour and catchy street-inspired songwriting that warns against being taken for a fool. It’s one of his fan favourites.

12. “The Kick” (feat. Don Jazzy) (2013)

Produced by Don Jazzy, “The Kick” was one of the songs that signalled Wande Coal’s successful transition into a new phase of his career after leaving Mo’Hits. The song’s production and memorable hook gave him one of his biggest solo hits of the decade. It’s among his greatest because it blends mainstream appeal with the vocal finesse that has always been his trademark.

11. “See Na Like This” (2009)

Social commentary Wande sheds light on the struggles of the average Nigerian. It’s great because it shows his depth and reflects the Nigerian reality, past or present.

10. “Kiss Your Hands” (feat. Ikechukwu) (2010)

This Wande Coal jam is an African crossover that shook the continent. It’s built around romance and easygoing melodies, and it shows how far his sound travelled across West Africa.

9. “Go Low” (2015)

“Go Low” sets the dance floor on fire. If you were outside in the early 2010s, this song had you in a chokehold. The transition in the beat midway is legendary.

8. “Ten Ten” (2009)

This song is one of the many reasons Mushin 2 Mo’Hits became a modern Afropop classic. Wande Coal turns everyday expressions into a fun, youthful and endlessly replayable song.

7. “Taboo” (2009)

“Taboo” is one of the finest slow-burning moments on Mushin 2 Mo’Hits. On the hypnotic song, Wande Coal gets into his lustful mood and delivers a sensual song about women, swinging hips and waist beads.

6. “Plan B” (2015)

“Plan B” showcases Wande Coal’s knack for turning romantic uncertainty into compelling pop music. Though it isn’t one of his biggest commercial hits, it’s one of his strongest cuts because of its rich songwriting and melody.

5. “Se Ope” (2009)

This is a thanksgiving bop. It earns its spot as an uplifting song that feels both personal and universally relatable, because Nigerians will never stop needing a song to aggressively thank God at parties.

4. “You Bad” (feat. D’Banj) (2009)

Pairing Wande Coal with D’Banj was always going to produce fireworks, and “You Bad” delivers that. D’Banj brings his larger-than-life charisma, while Wande anchors the song with sweet appreciation for baddies. Their contrasting styles make the collaboration exciting. It’s one of the defining records of the Mo’Hits era and one of Wande’s most entertaining collaborations.

3. “Bumper to Bumper” (2009)

Few songs introduced Wande Coal to mainstream audiences quite like “Bumper to Bumper.” It was released before Mushin 2 Mo’Hits, and the single became a nationwide hit thanks to its unforgettable chorus. It established him as one of Nigeria’s brightest new stars. Its cultural impact alone makes it one of the most important songs in his catalogue.

2. “Private Trips” (2012)

This song leans into romance and intimacy. It’s sexy, and Wande proves he can make a pop track that still keeps its Nigerian soul intact.

1. “Ololufe” (2009)

If one song captures Wande Coal’s genius as a singer, it’s “Ololufe.” It’s a timeless love song with heartfelt lyrics, rich harmonies, and memorable melodies that’s top of the list at weddings, parties and sing-alongs years after its release. It’s arguably one of the greatest Nigerian contemporary love songs ever recorded.

ALSO READ: The 10 Best Nigerian Albums of 2026 So Far, Ranked

This list covers Nigerian films that stood out in celebration of genre, dedication to craft, appreciation of culture and also just a great time at the movies. These are the 10 best Nollywood films of 2026, so far.

10. The Boy Who Gave 

Running time: 118 minutesÌę

Director: Allison Precious EmmanuelÌę

Genre: ¶Ù°ùČčłŸČčÌę

Films that take us to parts of Nigeria rarely seen are not many, and in Allison Emmanuel’s debut feature he takes us to Bonny Island, a place fraught with economic and political violence. He writes, directs and stars in the film that follows Broda, a first son, who is left to care for his siblings after the death of his parents. It’s a film that leans into the dreary existence that poverty plunges you into and it asks if escape is ever possible. 

The Boy Who Gave is currently showing in the cinemas.

9. The Other Side Of The Bridge 

Running time: 116 minutes 

Director: Fiyin Gambo

Genre: Sports Drama

Many Nigerian films in recent times have tried to capture the class tension between the wealthy and the poor in our society. In the Other Side Of The Bridge, we see the Fiyin Gambo-directed feature put this tension in a gritty boxing drama that follows two boxers (played by Tobi Bakre and Demi Banwo) from vastly different backgrounds competing in a prestigious tournament hoping to win it for reasons that define both their lives.

The Other Side Of The Bridge is not yet available on any streaming platforms.

8. Aba Blues

Running time: 120 minutes 

Director: Jack’enneth Opukeme

Genre: Romantic Drama 

Jack’enneth Opukeme has a flair for writing interesting women defying cultural boundaries. In Aba Blues he writes and directs a story of a woman (played by Angel Anosike) stuck between two lovers: one from her past and another in her present. It’s a story that celebrates and critiques Igbo culture, centering the love story in a place and time that shows the director’s signature vintage storytelling. 

Aba Blues is streaming on

7. Onobiren: A Woman’s Story

Running time: 104 minutes 

Director: Famous Odion Iraoya

Genre: Drama 

Nollywood has a fraught history with its women and in a bid to tell their own stories, Onobiren enters with the tale of a woman recounting her life experiences as she moves from her village to the city. It is a film that centres human efforts as acts of faith and miracles. Directed by Famous Odion Iraoya and written by Laju Iren, Onobiren opens the breadth of womanhood for the industry to learn from. 

Onobiren: A Woman’s Story is not yet available on any streaming platforms.

6. To Adaego With Love

Running time: 129 minutes

Director: Nwamaka Chikezie

Genre: Historical Romance 

In this Nwamaka Chikezie directed feature, we see a love story placed at the core of the post civil war reconciliation efforts in the East. Starring Adam Garba and Chisom Agoawuike, who have palpable chemistry, it navigates the complicated emotions of a people who have still not been given proper reparations for a war that ravaged their place and culture. It places this conflict within and outside a love story that will leave you in your feels when the credits roll. 

To Adaego With Love can be rented on the film’s

5. Evi

Running time: 107 minutes 

Director: Uyoyou Adia

Genre: Musical Drama

With the increase in Afrobeats recognition worldwide, a film about a fictional Afrobeats star was bound to happen. Enter Evi. It follows a pop star who falls from grace and attempts to return to success with a new lease on life. Starring Osas Okonyon in the titular role and directed by Uyoyou Adia, we get a glimpse into the shady workings of an industry where the price for success is often a loss of self. And to crown it all, it does have some bangers.

Evi is not yet available to stream on any platforms.

4. On Different Grounds

Running time: 120 minutes 

Director: Mildred Okwo

Genre: Romantic Dramedy

A veteran returns to the camera and brings other veterans with her in this Mildred Okwo directed romantic comedy. This film follows a separated couple who have to share the same space during the week of their daughter’s marriage. It’s a film that finds the older stars of Nollywood like Nkem Owoh, Jennifer Eliogu and Bob Manuel Udowku in roles that respect their skills. At the same time, it creates a narrative rarely seen with a happy ending that reminds us that second chances are never too late.

On Different Grounds is currently showing in cinemas.

3. When Nigeria Happens 

Running time: 119 minutes

Director: Ema Edosio-Deelen

Genre: Dance drama

Sometimes a Nigerian film departs from the usual forms we’re used to and creates an experiment that dissects the way our society breaks us. This is the central thesis of When Nigeria Happens. Directed by Ema Edosio-Deelen, it follows a group of misfit dancers who are trying to make it amidst the obstacles Nigeria throws at them. A film that uses dance as a primary driver of its story, we journey with this group as the pressure to fit in builds to a moving conclusion. 

When Nigeria Happens is streaming for a limited time on the

2. Mothers Of Chibok

Running time: 88 minutes 

Director: Joel Kachi Benson

Genre: Documentary

The kidnapping of the Chibok Girls remains one of the most consequential moments of Nigeria’s history and the media around it has remained fraught with propaganda and political motivations. With Mothers of Chibok, directed by Joel Kachi Benson, we witness a group of mothers who, after their daughters’ abduction, spend weeks, months and years waiting for their return. It is a solemn study on the way this tragedy has defined their present and future, and a documentation of their resilience. 

Mothers Of Chibok is currently not available on any streaming platforms.

1. Call Of My Life

Running time: 107 minutes 

Director: Dammy Twitch

Genre: Romantic comedy 

A call centre agent, Soluchi, is going through a tough heartbreak when she receives a call that is bound to change the trajectory of her love life. Directed by Dammy Twitch in his feature debut and written by Uzoamaka Power, Call Of My Life reminds us that a good romantic comedy is grounded in the cultural context of its people. With strong lead performances, a score that paints the romance and supporting characters you want to see more of, the film joins the pantheon of great Nigerian romcoms and will definitely be rewatched by generations to come.

Call Of My Life is currently showing in cinemas.

Born Iweh Pascal Odinaka, Poco Lee helped popularise the Zanku and Gbese dance movements and became the heartbeat of Nigerian street-hop and party culture. Over time, he transitioned from a viral street dancer to a reputable hypeman and cultural voice.

Today, dropping his name in a track has gone from a casual shoutout to a stamp of approval. From Wande Coal to Davido and Ayra Starr, artists cite Poco Lee as a seal of approval for elite footwork and overall coolness. Below are ten moments Poco Lee was immortalised in song lyrics.

10. “Dollar” — B-RED feat. Davido & Peruzzi

Lyrics: “You make me dance like I’m Poco Lee.”

B-Red teams up with Davido and Peruzzi to deliver a big-ballers anthem. And what’s an extravagant party without dance steps to match? The mention of Poco Lee here serves as a flex as the dancer represents the peak of Afrobeats party culture.

9. “ZaZoo Zeh” — Portable feat. Olamide and Poco Lee

Lyrics: “Poco Lee gbemi trabaye / Jeka jo zeh o / Poco Lee ogba dancer o.”

This song is Portable’s introduction. It name-drops the dancer to honour him, rightfully, as Poco Lee is regarded as the link between Portable and Olamide, who features alongside both of them in the song. This proves Poco Lee’s influence is in the mainstream street-hop.

8. “Desperado” — Cheque

Lyrics: “Move like Poco.”

Cheque’s “Desperado” gives a nod to Poco Lee. The dancer is synonymous with hustling his way from the Lagos streets to global stages. I mean, if you hustle hard and eventually make it, why not dance like the guy even your fave artists love to be around?

7. “Small Money” — Nasboi

Lyrics: “Make you dance and party like Poco Lee.”

Poco’s core relevance is being the life of the party. The reference to him here is clear: if you aren’t dancing with his level of energy, you aren’t doing it right.

6. “GBESUNMO” — Wande Coal feat. Ruger and BNXN

Lyrics: “Dance like Poco Lee.”

On Wande Coal’s new album (King Coal) is “GBESUNMO” featuring new-school artists BNXN and Ruger. BNXN references Poco Lee, and it’s basically a call to move the body like the popular dancer.

READ NEXT: The 20 Best Nigerian Songs of 2026 So Far, Ranked

5. “Diamonds” — Mayorkun (feat. Fireboy DML)

Lyrics: “Dancing like Poco Lee.”

It’s the same here, a call to dance. Mayorkun and Fireboy use the line “Dancing like Poco Lee” to farm his aura. Poco Lee’s effortless footwork is an equivalent of the flashy, soft-life fantasy the song is selling, because if there are people who know how to make looking cool seem easy, Poco Lee is one of them.

4. “MJ (Remix)” — Bad Boy Timz (feat. Mayorkun)

Lyrics: “So de le gbese bi ti Poco Lee?”

Bad Boy Timz and Mayorkun brilliantly juxtapose the King of Pop (Michael Jackson) with the King of Afrobeats Dance by asking, “So de le gbese bi ti Poco Lee?” (Can you step like Poco Lee?). This line solidifies Poco Lee’s status as a modern-day dance legend on par with international icons.

3. “Awuke” — Davido (feat. YG Marley)

Lyrics: “Move body like Poco jo.”

This song has a clear instruction to “Move body like Poco jo.” Davido, an acquaintance of Poco Lee, uses his name to inject a Lagos street-hop element into a cross-continental banger.

2. “Oshe” — Wande Coal (feat. Wizkid)

Lyrics: “Move like Poco Lee.”

This is a new collaboration between Wande Coal and Wizkid. The mention of Poco Lee here underscores his popular appeal. Even the OGs of modern Afrobeats recognise him as an undisputed face of Nigerian dance.

1. “Rush” — Ayra Starr

Lyrics: “Make you dance like Poco Lee.”

In her massive breakout hit, Ayra Starr sings, “Make you dance like Poco Lee.” It’s a good line that proves Poco’s influence isn’t limited to the streets or the boys; he’s the benchmark for pop icons across all demographics of the Afrobeats ecosystem.

ALSO READ: The 10 Best Nigerian Albums of 2026 So Far, Ranked

As we hit the mid-year mark, I look back at these impressive music projects, from the chart dominators to the underdogs, to pick the best of the best in 2026 so far. Here are 10 albums and EPs, ranked.

10. THE RETURN (Eze Onyịkọ) — Aguero Banks

THE RETURN (Eze Onyịkọ), Aguero Banks’ new album, is a street-grounded project with its teeth deep in grit and self-reflection. Intimately, it explores survival, spirituality and hard-earned victory. With its suspenseful production, the album pairs hard-hitting bars with melodic assists from an elite roster of collaborators such as Chike, Ajebo Hustlers, and Wizard Chan. The East has long represented contemporary Nigerian Hip-Hop, and Aguero Banks is one of its vital voices.

Listen on: |

9. The Game Needs Us — BNXN and Sarz

Singer BNXN and producer Sarz’s collaborative 5-track EP comes with an ambitious title. It almost delivers up to its declaration, but falls short in its diversity. The laid-back sound relies on Sarz’s immaculate, stripped-back R&B and pop production, letting BNXN’s vocal performance take centre stage. Thematically, it’s based on the familiar narrative arc of modern romance, alternating between toxicity and emotional and sensual attachment. The centrepiece of the project is the choir-backed “Back Outside.”

Listen on: |

8. WELCOME 2 THE VILLE — Apex Village

Seven years after the release of their debut, Abuja-based collective Apex Village makes a definitive return with their sophomore album, WELCOME 2 THE VILLE. The ambitious 14-track project expands the group’s core vision, introducing new members such as Laime and Azanti. The tape explores UK drill to trap and Afrobeats sounds and it’s mainly produced by Thrill Max. positions the crew at the vanguard of Nigerian Hip-Hop’s generational shift.

Listen on: |

7. Mafia Busine$$ — Naija House Mafia

Naija House Mafia (Jamie Black, Sigag Lauren and Calix) is a pioneering group in Nigeria’s electronic movement that’s been a favourite in the rave scene for a while now. On their debut five-track project, the group delivers a mix of Afro-house, Gqom and 3-Step and Fulani folk music, while reimagining nostalgic Afropop classics. One sure thing is, the music will sweat you out and make you dance.

Listen on: |

6. Clarity of Mind — OMAH LAY

OMAH LAY’s highly anticipated sophomore album, Clarity of Mind, arrives with a high sense of renewal. It’s framed as a critical turning point for both the artist and the genre, and expected to be the calming force that takes listeners past the dark introspection of his previous work. But instead, the album falls back into the same orbit. Just that the music still bangs. It utilises OMAH LAY’s unique and evocative vocal style to give a soothing collection of songs centred on healing, clarity and solace. Some of the album moments are songs like “ARTIFICIAL HAPPINESS”, “JAH JAH KNOWS” and “MARY JANE.”

Listen on: |

READ NEXT:ÌęThe 20 Best Nigerian Songs of 2026 So Far, Ranked

5. ITEM VII — Ema Onigah

If you’re not familiar with Ema Onigah, he’s a young but seasoned singer-songwriter who has co-written for artists such as Tekno. On his new EP, he digs further into his rap cadence with an Afropop style. He shows how expressive he can be in his compositions, such as “Chance” and the most viral track, “With You.” This project is a showcase of an artist who’s constantly experimenting and trailblazing his own lane.

Listen on: |

4. Diamond In the Process — Jiire Smith

Operating outside the Lagos music scene, 22-year-old Abu Dhabi-based Nigerian singer-songwriter Jiire Smith puts out his debut EP, Diamond In A Process. It’s rooted in a soulful, intimate and deliberately unhurried R&B-Soul sound. The EP reflects the multicultural worldview shaped by his upbringing in Abuja and life in the UAE. The themes range from patience and discipline to love and grief. This is the soundtrack for the underdogs and those who are a work in progress.

Listen on: |

3. Agaba Romantic — Joeboy and Wizard Chan

Joeboy’s pop sensibilities and Wizard Chan’s mysticism collide to make Agaba Romantic, a 7-track collaborative inspired by desire, introspection, love and romance. The music blends influences from Afropop, Highlife, Reggae, and South-South gyration. It delivers some of the best songs of the year: “100 Meters” and “Fall Back In Your Arms.”

Listen on: |

2. Love Is a Machinery — Anendlessocean

Expanding on the romantic themes introduced in his 2024 EP Hexagon, Anendlessocean releases his most thorough and complete love album yet. He treats romance as a seed to be planted and nurtured. The songwriting and production of the album weave through mid-tempo soul, acoustic ballads, indie grooves, and Amapiano log drums to give a full, beautiful yet complex spectrum of devotion and love.

Listen on: |

1. M$NEY — Asake

Written from his new transatlantic base in Los Angeles, Asake’s 13-track fourth studio album, M$NEY, serves as a boastful celebration of financial freedom, success and identity that captures the artist fully leaning into his “Mr. Money” persona. Moving away from the loose experimentation of his previous project, LUNGU BOY, the album marks a notable return to his signature Afrofusion sound: a blend of Afropop and Amapiano log drums with House-music production. M$NEY is lyrically light, but packed with infectious, rotation-ready hits that make him Mr. Money With the Vibe.

Listen on: |

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This list highlights 20 songs that stood out above the noise between January and June 2026. In selecting them, I considered quality, songwriting, production, replay value, cultural impact and the conversations these records generated among listeners. Some became unavoidable hits; others earned their place through sheer craftsmanship, but all captured Nigerian music in the first six months of the year.

These are the best Nigerian songs of H1 2026.

20. “Oh My Days” — Islambo

Street sounds have dominated the airspace for a while now, and Islambo is one of its most exciting voices. In two minutes, he floats on a hypnotic Afrofusion production, dropping catchy, humorous, hustle-oriented puns and one-liners, interspersed with self-praise as a lamba craft master. He stays consistent with his predilection for street lingo and happy-hour music; “Oh My Days”, his first drop of the year, is proof.

19. “OGO” — Danny S

What’s a song for the street if you don’t pay homage to it? Danny S takes his tribute even further by using this song, “OGO” — meaning glory, which is now slang for the rich and successful — to name-drop popular areas in Lagos as evidence of his street credibility around the metropolis. This song has all the elements of a great street-hop track: a tight production, fun catchphrases, and relatability.

18. “Omoge” — Falz

Falz is back with a new single to serenade women who love to boogie down. The production adds flair with bites from Sir Shina Peters’ “Omoge To Rewa” (1989) and Afro-Juju sound. It balances humour and romance with fun. Proper owambe material.

17. “ỌGBỀ EGO” — Aguero Banks

This is the ninth track on Eastern rapper Aguero Banks’ new album THE RETURN (Eze Onyịkọ), where he delivers a chorus and a verse about ambition and street philosophy. This is daily discourse about money and survival turned to motivation.

16. “Aura Salad” — SSSoundgawd and Mavo

“Aura Salad” is a direct link to where Nigeria’s new underground scene is headed. The music is freeform: rhymes, flows and melodies are unconventional and overall rides on personality-driven performances. SSSoundgawd and Mavo are at the forefront of this new movement that’s penetrating to this mainstream.

15. “FRE$H” — Victony

Victony is always experimenting with sound. On his latest, he hypes up his love-interest on a bubbly Afropop sound. The chorus is contagious, the whole songwriting is smooth and his confidence doesn’t overtip into arrogance — just a guy in a moment of lover’s rock and self-glaze.

14. “Jogodo” — Wizkid and Asake

Wizkid and Asake, two of Nigeria’s most influential stars, meet to give us a 4-track EP which houses “Jogodo.” With an unrelenting range of melodies and lyrical snapshot of big ballers’ lifestyle, they supply a good time. Nothing more to this than a fun time.

13. “Akonuche” — Priesst

Priesst is a rising rapper and singer who went viral this year with “Akonuche” single, a motivational song centering on goals, resilience and smart work. It’s one of the most resonant songs of the year so far.

READ NEXT: The 40 of Ayra Starr’s Greatest Songs, Ranked

12. “Yapa Yapa” — Jiire Smith

It’s upbeat and feels like disco here. “Yapa Yapa” gets Jiire Smith in a groove to talk about how people will always have things to say about you if you’re important. In recent times, the Nigerian R&B and Soul music scene has seen a surge in its pedigree of brilliant musicians. Jiire Smith is one of them, and this is his latest offering.

11. “OKUNKUN” — Solana and Killertunes

This Killertunes-produced Afro-fusion track, sung largely in YorĂčbĂĄ, introduces singer Solana to the Nigerian audience who are looking for something fresh. “OKUNKUN”, meaning darkness in YorĂčbĂĄ, explores themes of faith and resilience. It’s definitely one of the most talked about and unorthodox music releases of 2026.

10. “Dearly” — Wande Coal feat. Qing Madi

Wande Coal links with Qing Madi to make a track for Valentine’s Day and lovers. It’s an incredible display of their vocal dexterity. They trade verses and emotions to create a tender love record that cuts across any age group.

9. “ARTIFICIAL HAPPINESS” — OMAH LAY

OMAH LAY, our resident sad boy, explores the struggles of masking inner pain with temporary, superficial highs. It paints the picture of the reality of living a seemingly perfect or fun life on the outside while battling emptiness, depression and anxiety on the inside.

8. “Romeo and Juliet” — Abefe

Abefe is currently one of the most talked and trending artists on TikTok right now. After going viral with a snippet post of “Romeo and Juliet”, he finally puts it out. This sweet afropop borrows from the familiar love story of Romeo and Juliet to demonstrate devotion and desire through the Gen-Z lens. Abefe and his song are one of the best music finds on TikTok this year.

7. “Back Outside” — BNXN and Sarz

BNXN and Sarz get active again with the single “Back Outside”, the centrepiece of their collaborative The Game Needs Us EP. This is just them saying they’re back to doing what they love most: music. BNXN’s chorus, hook and verse are honeyed. Sarz’s production is elite. 

6. “Fall Back In Your Arms” — Joeboy and Wizard Chan feat. Braye

This tender opening track from the Agaba Romantic EP is all about emotional safety, love and connection. The fusion of Joeboy’s pop instincts with Wizard Chan’s mystic energy and Braye’s soulful contribution makes it a comforting listen. This is collaboration done right.

5. “Tornado” — Ayra Starr

Ayra Starr continues to tease her Starrgirl era. This song is a braggadocious one, an Afropop-and-synth-pop hybrid laced with Latin percussion. She knows who she is and proves once again that she is one of the most compelling voices of her generation.

4. “Chanel” — Blaqbonez feat. Asake

Blaqbonez and Asake are old university mates who get back together on “Chanel” as music stars. They sing and rap about being stylish, locking down the No. 1 spot on the Official Nigeria Top 100. It’s a hit that still has more moments ahead of it.

3. “Big Bum Bum” — Kidd Carder feat. Mavo

This is a bouncy, playful, memorable song about a woman’s behind and nightlife. As direct as it is, Kidd Carder and Mavo don’t overcomplicate it. Just groove, lamba, loud speakers and slow whine.

2. “With You” — Ema Onigah

Ema Onigah is an exciting vocalist who blends rap and singing into a unique style. Here, he delivers a jam about romantic commitment, arguably his best yet. It’s versatile and catchy.

1. “Forgiveness” — Asake

So far in 2026, Asake has the best album, and “Forgiveness” is one of the unforgettable tracks on it. Though the beat is dance-ready, Asake gets into a reflective mood. He sings about divine grace, old friends, giving grace, moving forward and keeping focus on his passion. The log-drums are heavy and the flows are impeccable. Peak Asake.

ALSO READ:ÌęWhat We Demand When We Ask Celebrities to “Speak Up”

1. A Sunday Affair (2023)

Role: Femi

Two best friends fall for the same man. You already know peace was never an option. In the midst of the love triangle wahala, Alexx plays Femi, a close friend of Sunday, the guy leading two women on. 

2. Afamefuna (2023)

Role: Paul

Alexx plays Paul, a senior apprentice who takes Afamefuna under his wing. They are practically brothers, until Afam gets his settlement first, and Paul lets his jealousy get the better of him. The film earned Alexx an AMVCA nomination for Best Supporting Actor: his last major role, and one of his best.

3. The Weekend Getaway (2012)

Role: Andre

Three groups of people arrive at the Le Meridien hotel for a relaxing weekend getaway: a man meeting his online love, a married couple hoping to rekindle their spark, and a wealthy cougar. Alexx plays Andre, the boyfriend of the cougar. Fun fact: this was one of Alexx’s first major breakout roles and the role that put him into the limelight. 

4. Lagos Cougars (2013)

Role: 2013

Three women in their forties decide they are done with men their own age and start dating younger. Alexx plays Chigo, the toy boy attached to Aret (Uche Jombo). She pays for everything he owns, while he’s simply chilling.  The drama that follows is exactly as messy as you’d expect.

5. Gbomo Gbomo Express (2015)

Role: Hubby

Gbomo Gbomo Express follows a small-time band of crooks working in a shawarma joint. When a woman is unfortunately the first victim of their antics, we meet Hubby, her husband played by the talented Alexx. The whole film is just these people making terrible decisions, one after another. 

6. First Lady (2015)

Role: Obama

Michelle wants out of sex work, but Obama, her abusive pimp, has other plans. He’s the man who gave her the name Michelle, and abuse is only one of his many terrible qualities. It’s one of the biggest departures from Alexx Ekubo’s usual charm.

7. A Man for the Weekend (2017)

Role: Bryan 

Bryan Mbah is a simple intern at the corporate firm where the main character, Candace, works. However, this dynamic takes a turn for the better when she hires him as a boyfriend to impress her mother. 

8. Catch. Er (2017)

Role: Tony Bello 

What happens when your wife dies and you turn out to be a key suspect? That’s Tony Bello’s fate in this classic thriller movie. 

This movie  is currently unavailable on streaming platforms. 

9. Bling Lagosians (2019)

Role: Nnamdi

The movie follows a wealthy Lagos family trying to maintain appearances while going broke behind the scenes. Alexx plays Nnamdi, another upper-class Lagos person pretending everything is fine. 

10. Blood Covenant (2022)

Role: Obi

Four friends make a pact in secondary school never to leave each other. Somehow, life happens and they separate. In this time, Obi (Alexx Ekubo) has become wealthier than the group. Their greed and quest for quick wealth lead them down a very dangerous path. 

This was triggered by a viral video of the National Youth Service Corp member @BackhatDude who creates TikToks with his pupils. 

Unsurprisingly, people had strong opinions. Many argued that posting the children online is unacceptable and infringed on their privacy. 

Others pointed out that it may have negative effects on the children. 

Then there were others who felt the corper deserved extra scrutiny. 

While these guys pointed to the potential benefits. 

To these people, everything is fine as long as the parents gave permission.

The question still remains: where do we draw the line between posting children and simply exploiting them for views on the internet?

ALSO READ: Children’s Day 2025: The Kids Are Not Alright

TheÌęÌęis returning on August 22, 2026, in Lagos! Come learn from finance experts and industry leaders, and partake in unfiltered conversations about building wealth and diversifying your income stream in a country like Nigeria.ÌęReal stories, expert advice you can actually use, and a community ready to build wealth together.Ìę.