Defining “most popular” can be tricky, as it depends on the criteria used and the specific audience you’re asking about.
However, prominent Nigerians who have achieved recognition for various reasons across different fields include:
Business & Technology
Aliko Dangote
As the richest man in Africa, Dangote’s success in business, particularly in industries like cement, sugar, and flour, has earned him global recognition. His oil refinery, which is the largest in Africa also puts him at the forefront.
His entrepreneurial spirit and impact on the economy have contributed to his fame.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-General of the World Trade Organization, former Nigerian Finance Minister.
Okonjo-Iweala’s recognition stems from her significant roles in international finance and economics. Her leadership as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) further solidifies her global influence in shaping economic policies on a worldwide scale.
Literature
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Award-winning author known for novels like “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Americanah.”
Adichie is celebrated for her powerful storytelling and exploration of complex themes in contemporary African society. Her novels have resonated with a global audience, addressing issues of identity, feminism, and post-colonialism.
Chinua Achebe
Achebe is celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to African literature.
“Things Fall Apart” is a seminal work that not only tells a compelling story but also challenges Western narratives about Africa, making Achebe a literary icon.
Wole Soyinka
As a Nobel laureate in Literature, Soyinka’s work is known for its rich cultural and political themes. He has been an outspoken critic of political oppression and injustice, making him not only a literary figure but also a prominent voice for social and political change.
Sports
Anthony Joshua
Joshua’s prominence as a professional boxer and former heavyweight champion has earned him global recognition in the sports world. His skill in the ring and his charismatic personality have made him a well-known figure beyond the boxing community.
Hakeem Olajuwon
Olajuwon’s success in the NBA, particularly with the Houston Rockets, has made him one of the greatest basketball players in history. His skills as a center and impact on the sport have led to enduring recognition.
Victor Osimhen
At 25, Osimhen is considered one of the most talented young strikers in the world. He currently leads Serie A in goals (as of January 31, 2024) and has impressed with his pace, strength, and finishing ability.
Playing for the prominent Serie A club Napoli, he is also the key player for the Nigerian national team, helping them reach the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final.
Asisat Oshoala
Barcelona Femení footballer and five-time African Women’s Player of the Year.
Her achievements as the first African woman to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League (2021), the first African woman to win the Primera División’s Pichichi Trophy (2022), winner of numerous league titles and cups across China, England, and Spain, and the key player for the Nigerian national team has secured her place in the world stage.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Two-time NBA MVP, champion, global basketball superstar.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, known as the “Greek Freak,” is a highly popular basketball player of Nigerian descent playing for the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. His exceptional skills, NBA Championship win in 2021, work ethic, humility, international impact, and philanthropy contribute to his widespread recognition and admiration globally.
Entertainment
Defining “most popular” can be tricky, as it depends on the criteria used and the specific audience you’re asking about. However, I can offer some insights on prominent Nigerians who achieve recognition for various reasons across different fields:
Music
Burna Boy
Grammy winner for Best Global Music Album, known for his unique blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, and reggae.
Burna Boy’s success in the music industry, blending Afrobeat with contemporary sounds, has gained him international acclaim. Winning the Grammy Awards further solidified his status as a global music icon, contributing to the popularity of Afro-fusion music.
Wizkid
Grammy-nominated artist, known for global hits like “One Dance” with Drake and collaborations with Beyoncé.
His recent achievement of selling out London’s O2 Arena in December 2023 (his third time achieving this feat) and releasing the single “More Love, Less Ego” in November 2023, which generated over 30 million views on YouTube has gained him more prominence.
He was nominated for Best International Act at the 2024 Brit Awards.
Davido
Award-winning musician with a massive fanbase, popular for his Afrobeats sound and energetic performances.
He headlined the 2023 Wireless Festival in the UK, attracting a massive crowd, he also won the Artiste of the Year award at the 2023 African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMA) and launched his record label, Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), further solidifying his influence in the industry.
Yemi Alade
Considered a pioneer in Afrobeats, with her hits like “Johnny,” she is known for her energetic performances and powerful vocals. She’s been actively involved in the industry for over a decade.
She performed at the opening ceremony of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), gaining significant exposure to a global audience.
Tiwa Savage
Renowned Afro-pop singer, she performed at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in 2023.
She also performed at the coronation concert for King Charles and Queen Camilla on May 8, 2023, which was held to celebrate their official coronation. She sang her song “Keys to the Kingdom,” which she co-wrote with Mr. Eazi and which appeared on Beyoncé’s album “The Lion King.”
Fela Kuti
Fela Kuti’s influence as a musician, bandleader, and political activist has transcended borders. He pioneered the Afrobeat genre, using his music to address social and political issues, making him a symbol of resistance and a key figure in the global music scene.
Film & TV
Genevieve Nnaji
As a prominent figure in Nollywood, Genevieve Nnaji has played a pivotal role in popularizing Nigerian cinema internationally. Her talent as an actress and filmmaker has contributed to the growing influence of Nollywood on the global stage.
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Academy Award-nominated actor known for roles in “12 Years a Slave” and “Doctor Strange.”
John Boyega
Starred in the “Star Wars” sequel trilogy, “The Woman King,” and other Hollywood films.
