In a recent interview, Ajobi noted that streaming services and social media have lowered entry barriers for emerging talents, enabling musicians to release and promote their work globally without relying solely on major record labels.
“Nigerian music has broken regional boundaries,” he said, pointing to the international rise of Afrobeats and other indigenous sounds, which are increasingly influencing mainstream global music. “With the global audience now paying attention, Nigerian artistes are telling their stories more boldly.”
Ajobi explained that the shift toward digital distribution has encouraged experimentation, allowing artists to innovate while remaining rooted in traditional rhythms and cultural expressions.
Born on September 15, 1999, in Yala, Cross River State, and raised in Abuja, Ajobi was exposed to the music industry early through his father’s involvement in artist management. In 2022, he introduced AfroDepartment, a personal musical framework blending Afrobeats with contemporary and experimental elements. The same year, he launched Baye Department, an independent record label, reflecting a wider trend of Nigerian artists using digital tools to maintain creative control.
His 2023 single Guarantee gained notable traction on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, demonstrating the growing influence of digital spaces in music discovery. In 2024, Ajobi was named Artist of the Year at the Creativity and Excellence Awards organized by Kristal Koncepts Entertainment, further cementing his impact on Nigeria’s independent music scene.