Lagos State, Nigeria’s bustling commercial and entertainment epicenter, is not only the heartbeat of the country's economy but also the bedrock of its music industry. Over the past two decades, Lagos has become a launchpad for musical talents who have achieved incredible success both locally and internationally. From the gritty streets of Bariga and Surulere to the bright lights of Lekki and Victoria Island, the state has nurtured a generation of stars who now dominate African music charts and even break global streaming records.
This blog post takes you through the lives and careers of the richest musicians who are from Lagos State, analyzing how they made their fortunes, their influence on Nigerian pop culture, and what keeps them at the top of their game. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious about the wealth behind the fame, here's your definitive guide to Lagos State's musical millionaires.
1. Wizkid (Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun) – $25 Million
Wizkid is undoubtedly Lagos State's biggest musical export. Born and raised in Surulere, Wizkid began singing at a young age in his church choir. His career took off after he signed with Banky W's EME Records in 2009 and released his debut album Superstar in 2011.
With hits like “Ojuelegba” and international collaborations such as “Essence” with Tems and “One Dance” with Drake, Wizkid has built a global brand. He's signed to RCA Records under Sony Music and owns Starboy Entertainment. In 2021, Made in Lagos earned him a Grammy nomination and billions of streams worldwide.
His wealth comes from album sales, endorsements (Pepsi, MTN, UBA), sold-out concerts, and streaming royalties.
2. Olamide – $15 Million
Popularly called “Baddo,” Olamide Gbenga Adedeji is a native of Bariga, Lagos. Known for rapping in Yoruba and English, Olamide gained popularity with his debut single “Eni Duro” in 2010. He is one of the few Nigerian artists who consistently release albums almost every year.
Olamide is the founder of YBNL Nation, a record label that discovered Fireboy DML, Asake, Lil Kesh, and Adekunle Gold. His income comes from music sales, label revenue, brand endorsements, and his long-standing presence in the Nigerian music scene.
3. Adekunle Gold – $7 Million
Adekunle Gold, born into the Kosoko royal family in Lagos Island, blends traditional highlife with modern Afrobeats. He broke into the limelight with the 2015 hit “Sade,” followed by the critically acclaimed Gold album.
Adekunle Gold’s appeal lies in his soulful lyrics and unique fashion sense. He is married to fellow artist Simi and has earned money from music sales, tours across Africa and North America, and endorsement deals with brands like Unity Bank and Tecno.
4. Naira Marley – $6 Million
Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, was born in Agege and later moved to Peckham, UK. He became a household name with songs like “Issa Goal,” “Soapy,” and “Tesumole.”
Despite controversies, his “Marlian” fanbase is one of the most dedicated in Nigeria. As the head of Marlian Music, he has signed artists like Zinoleesky and Mohbad (formerly). His income stems from streaming royalties, music shows, and brand promotions.
5. Asake – $5 Million
Ahmed Ololade Asake, popularly known as Asake, is a fast-rising star from Lagos. Signed to Olamide’s YBNL and Empire Distribution, Asake is known for his unique blend of Fuji, Amapiano, and Afrobeats.
His debut album Mr. Money with the Vibe set streaming records across Africa. With global performances, high-demand shows, and an increasing fanbase, Asake’s wealth continues to grow rapidly.
6. Zlatan Ibile – $4.5 Million
Zlatan, born Temidayo Raphael, rose to fame with the viral “Zanku” dance and song. Hailing from Ikorodu in Lagos, Zlatan has carved a niche with street-hop and energetic anthems.
Founder of Zanku Records, he has signed artists like Jamopyper and Papisnoop. His wealth is accumulated through performances, digital streams, and streetwear brand endorsements.
7. D’Prince – $4 Million
Charles Enebeli, known as D’Prince, was born in Ajegunle and is the younger brother of Don Jazzy. He gained fame under Mo’Hits and later Mavin Records with songs like “Take Banana.”
As the founder of Jonzing World, he discovered Rema and Ruger. Much of his current wealth comes from managing artists and receiving royalties from their successes.
8. 9ice – $3.5 Million
Abolore Akande, aka 9ice, is a veteran musician from Bariga. He burst into fame with the classic album Gongo Aso in 2008, winning numerous awards and shaping Yoruba music in modern pop.
Though his musical activity has declined, 9ice remains an influential figure. His earnings stem from past hits, royalties, political involvement, and occasional tours.
9. Reminisce – $3 Million
Remilekun Safaru, known as Reminisce, blends Yoruba rap with hip-hop to deliver conscious street music. Based in Lagos, Reminisce gained prominence with hits like “Ponmile” and “Local Rappers.”
He's also an actor, having starred in the film King of Boys. His revenue sources include music, endorsements, acting, and running his label, LRR Records.
10. Seyi Vibez – $2 Million
Seyi Vibez, born Balogun Afolabi Oluwaloseyi in Ketu, Lagos, is one of the new-generation street pop artists. Known for emotional and melodic tunes like “Chance” and “Para,” he has captured the hearts of many youths.
He earns through digital streams, independent shows, and brand appearances. His net worth continues to rise as he solidifies his place in the industry.
Summary Table: Richest Musicians from Lagos State (2025)
| Rank | Musician | Estimated Net Worth (USD) | Notable Works | Record Label/Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wizkid (Ayodeji Balogun) | $25 million | “Essence,” “Ojuelegba,” “Soco” | Starboy/RCW/Sony |
| 2 | Olamide (Olamide Adedeji) | $15 million | “Wo,” “Motigbana,” “Rock” | YBNL Nation |
| 3 | Adekunle Gold | $7 million | “Orente,” “Sinner,” “Something Different” | Afro Urban Records |
| 4 | Naira Marley | $6 million | “Soapy,” “Tesumole,” “Mafo” | Marlian Music |
| 5 | Asake | $5 million | “Sungba,” “Terminator,” “Joha” | YBNL/Empire |
| 6 | Zlatan Ibile | $4.5 million | “Zanku,” “Bolanle,” “Ale Yi” | Zanku Records |
| 7 | D’Prince | $4 million | “Take Banana,” “O.Y.O” | Jonzing World |
| 8 | 9ice | $3.5 million | “Gongo Aso,” “Street Credibility” | Alapomeji Records |
| 9 | Reminisce | $3 million | “Local Rappers,” “Ponmile” | LRR Records |
| 10 | Seyi Vibez | $2 million | “Chance,” “Billion Dollar,” “Para” | Vibez Inc. |
Final Thoughts
Lagos State's contribution to Nigeria’s music industry cannot be overstated. These artists have not only brought fame and recognition to themselves but have also put Nigerian music on the global map. Their stories are filled with passion, resilience, and a never-give-up attitude, all nurtured in the vibrant energy of Lagos.
From global hits to entrepreneurial ventures and brand endorsements, these musicians have turned talent into multi-million-dollar empires. As Lagos continues to birth new stars, we can only expect this list to expand with even more names and higher net worths in the years to come.
