While Wizkid's name resonates globally, his strategic ascent is largely steered by Jada Pollock, known as Jada P. This music executive and entrepreneur transitioned from fashion to artiste management, bringing her expertise to collaborations with Chris Brown and Pia Mia before partnering with Wizkid in his early twenties. More than a manager, she's the architect of his global brand, securing pivotal international deals. Recognized by Billboard as 'Executive of the Week' in 2021, Jada P, also Wizkid's partner and mother to two of his children, continues to inspire a new generation in entertainment.
Known as Ikemefuna 1, Alexander Okeke is the driving force behind YBNL's sustained success and Olamide's enduring relevance. Credited with Fireboy DML's rise and spearheading Asake's groundbreaking 2024 concert, Okeke wears multiple hats: manager, A&R executive, brand consultant, and CEO of Red and Axla Logistics. As Head of Talent and Business at YBNL, which stands for Yahoo Boy No Laptop Nation, is an independent record label established in Nigeria by Olamide in 2012. The label is renowned for discovering and developing gifted artists such as Fireboy DML, Asake, and Lil Kesh. Billboard Magazine has acknowledged YBNL as one of the key influencers in the Nigerian music scene, his strategic vision keeps the label at the forefront of Afrobeats.
Asa Asika's name is synonymous with relentless drive. Starting his career at 16 organizing concerts at Storm 360, he founded StarGaze Management by 2013 and later launched The Plug in 2016, a multifaceted brand spanning music, events, sports, and publishing. His reunion with Davido in 2017 ignited some of Afrobeats' most iconic moments, earning him 'Artiste Manager of the Year' accolades. With a growing empire and a commitment to nurturing young talent, Asika remains a pivotal figure.
Taiye Aliyu's strategic partnership with Yemi Alade transformed the singer into an international powerhouse. As co-founder of Effyzzie Music, Aliyu's focused investment in Alade paid off spectacularly with the global hit 'Johnny' in 2014. He has since guided her through numerous global tours and award wins, solidifying her international status.
Before Tems became a Grammy-winning global sensation, Muyiwa Awoniyi, founder of BSB Management, recognized her unique talent. Managing both Tems and Omah Lay, Awoniyi also runs Faceless Distribution, supporting independent artists. His blend of faith, business acumen, and mentorship has earned him recognition from Billboard and TurnTable, highlighting his role in uplifting African music.
Veteran manager Sunday Are played a crucial role in Wizkid's early international trajectory. As CEO of List Entertainment, Are's illustrious career spans over three decades, managing legends like Christy Essien-Igbokwe and King Sunny Ade. His guidance during Wizkid's formative global expansion, coordinating international tours and collaborations, cemented Wizkid's position on the world stage. Often referred to as a father figure by the artist, Are's legacy continues to shape Nigeria's global music narrative.
Globally known as 'Mama Burna', Bose Ogulu is the formidable force behind Burna Boy's global dominance. Fluent in five languages and with advanced degrees, Ogulu's management career took flight in 2017. She co-produced Burna's Grammy-winning 'Twice As Tall' and was recognized as a Billboard International Power Player in 2021. As the founder of Spaceship Collective, she champions African artists retaining ownership of their work.
PR veteran Vannessa Amadi-Ogbonna is the strategic mind propelling Tiwa Savage's global appeal. With a 25-year career managing public relations for icons like Usher and Whitney Houston, she played a pivotal role in Tiwa's branding and touring. Her recent executive production of Tiwa's debut film underscores her influence extending beyond music, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in African entertainment.
From journalism to PR, Sean "Super Sean" Okeke's path to music management was unique. Co-founding Jonzing World in 2018, he was instrumental in launching Rema and Ruger to stardom. Rema's global hit 'Calm Down' (especially the Selena Gomez remix) cemented their success. Recognized by Billboard as a Top Global Talent Manager in 2023, Okeke also supports emerging creatives through his Super Sean Media.
Janet Nwose's enduring partnership with Asa is a testament to artistic synergy. Beginning with a 2004 photoshoot, their bond blossomed into a career-defining collaboration. Nwose introduced Asa to producer Cobhams Asuquo, leading to her acclaimed debut album. Remaining deeply involved in Asa's artistic journey, often as her backup singer and creative confidante, their unwavering relationship is built on trust and a shared artistic vision.
Ogaga Sakpaide, known as Ogagus, recognized Chike's captivating vocals on 'The Voice Nigeria' and has since been instrumental in his ascent. This music executive and A&R talent's influence extends across Afrobeats, earning him an A&R of the Year nomination at the 2024 Beatz Awards. Under his guidance, Chike has delivered hits like 'Beautiful People' and 'Running (To You)'. Ogagus's impressive roster also includes Flavour, Yung6ix, Kizz Daniel, and Yemi Alade.
Ebrus Awarieta, or Priest, co-founder of Priest Management, is the strategic force propelling rapper Phyno's continued success. As an A&R and music executive at Penthauze Music, Priest's connection with Phyno through a mutual friend sparked a long-standing and fruitful collaboration. His extensive experience includes working with Henry Knight and Soft, showcasing his diverse management capabilities. Recognized by TurnTable Charts as 'Executive of the Week', Priest also ventures into fashion and lifestyle.
In an industry often driven by trends, Anire Nanna is the steadfast manager behind Johnny Drille's unique and soulful musical journey. Emphasizing collaboration over control, Nanna acts as a crucial bridge between Johnny's introspective sound and the broader industry, carefully balancing critical acclaim with commercial relevance.
While Nigerian singer 9ice has navigated his career with the guidance of several managers, a foundational figure is Id Cabasa. As the visionary founder of the influential Coded Tunes record label, Id Cabasa not only signed a constellation of major talents – including 9ice, Olamide, 2Shotz, Reminisce, Lord of Ajasa, Ajayi Brovas, 2Phat, Seriki, and Banky W – but also personally managed 9ice during a pivotal period. This era encompassed the groundbreaking "Gongo Aso" album and the subsequent widespread success that followed. Earlier in his career, Mode F (Dehinde Fajana) was also recognized as 9ice's manager during the "Certificate" phase. Later, in 2017, 9ice joined Temple Management Company (TMC). Beyond that, 9ice further solidified his entrepreneurial impact by establishing Alapomeji Entertainment Limited and its record label, Alapomeji Ancestral Records, which is currently under the management of Mr. Saliman Badmus DEJI.