8 Nigerian Musicians Making Money Aside Music

The music scene in Nigeria is huge and has propelled numerous talents into the global spotlight. However, for some artists, the journey to financial success extends beyond music. 

They’ve smartly diversified their income streams, exploring different ventures outside the studio. Whether through fashion, tech, real estate, or food, these musicians are proving they are as savvy in business as they are in making hit songs. Here are some Nigerian musicians who are making money beyond their music careers.

Don Jazzy

Michael Collins Ajereh, better known as Don Jazzy, is a business mogul both in and out of the music world. As the owner of Mavin Records, his impact on the music industry is undeniable, but his entrepreneurial efforts don’t stop there. Don Jazzy has invested in real estate, oil, and gas, and even launched his Wi-Fi service called Flobyt. Adding to his resume, he owns a burger restaurant, Jazzy’s Burger, and a soap line, Drip Beauty Soap.

Wizkid

Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, has not only been a force in the music industry since 2010 but has also expanded into other profitable ventures. While dropping chart-topping hits that have earned him a Grammy award, Wizkid has branched into the real estate sector. His investments in property sales are well-known, and he also owns a clothing line, diversifying his portfolio beyond music.

Zlatan Ibile

Known for his energetic music and stylish persona, Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, extended his brand into fashion. In May 2024, Zlatan launched his clothing line, Zanku To The World, which has since made waves in the Nigerian fashion scene. With his bold and trendy designs, Zlatan proves that his business sense matches his musical success.

Mr Eazi

Before Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, also known as Mr Eazi, became a music sensation, he had already begun his entrepreneurial journey. In 2014, he co-created Obiwezy, a platform dedicated to selling electronic gadgets. Not stopping there, he founded Empawa Africa in 2018, an initiative to empower African artists. He also created Zagadat Capital 2021, a venture capital firm, making him a seasoned entrepreneur with interests far beyond music.

Davido

David Adeleke, better known as Davido, has often been stereotyped as relying on his family’s wealth, but that assumption couldn’t be further from the truth. Davido has struck lucrative endorsement deals with major global brands like Puma and 1xbet. In addition to his endorsements, he’s ventured into real estate, owns a supermarket, runs his own clothing line, and invested in cryptocurrencies.

Banky W

Olubankole Wellington, famously known as Banky W, is a man with many titles. Not only is he a celebrated musician and actor, but he’s also a politician and entrepreneur. In 2018, he co-founded a restaurant called Sooyah Bistro, bringing his business acumen into the food industry along with his ventures in politics.

Patoranking

Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, famously known as Patoranking, is more than just a hitmaker. The reggae-dancehall star launched the Patoranking Foundation, which supports educational scholarships and business development across African countries. 

2Baba

A true legend in the Nigerian music industry, Innocent Ujah Idibia, better known as 2Baba, has been making music for over two decades. However, his influence extends beyond his musical legacy. 2Baba has invested heavily in real estate and owns a popular nightclub, Rumours, with locations in Ikeja and Festac.