What You Need To Know About The Nigerian Hip-Hop Scene In 2025

Ladies and Gentlemen, The Nigerian hip-hop scene is on fire. With a string of scorching hot albums hitting the internet landscape all through 2024, the scene is bubbling and Nigerian rappers are showing up and showing out. 

What makes this even more exciting is that we are only in February. By all indications, it’s clear that 2025 will be a monumental year for Nigerian rap.

Nigerian hip-hop has always been a force to be reckoned with. While the incredible commercial success of Afrobeats in recent history has put hip-hop on the sidelines, Nigerian hip-hop continues to boast a rich history of iconic artists and hall-of-fame albums. A history some may argue rivals that of Afrobeats itself.

Following a brief period where the scene appeared to stagnate, forcing many rappers to pivot to singing to stay commercially viable, the genre has experienced a significant surge. 

This is thanks to the innovative talents of rappers. Blaqbonez, PsychoYP, Odumodublvck, Shallipopi, and Ladipoe have lit up the mainstream, scoring chart-topping records and number-one albums.

The remarkable commercial success of these artists has revitalised the hip-hop scene and opened the gates for a new generation of Nigerian rappers to emerge, each bringing their unique style and perspective to the table. 

READ MORE: Nigerian Producer Jimohsoundz Unveils Debut EP, ‘Lost Files Vol. 1’

From the lyrical dexterity of Oluwamillar to Zhus Jdo’s graphic bars to the bouncy flows of Caleb Clay to the melodic rap style of Sknny, the range of talent on display is undeniable.

So, what are some of the standout projects that have dropped in recent times? Let’s take a look:

Oluwamillar – Agbalabi

Oluwamillar’s latest album is a masterclass in lyrical storytelling, with Millar delivering razor-sharp bars over a range of eclectic beats. An early contender for rap album of the year, Millar proves he is not a flash in the pan, delivering an exciting rap album deeply rooted in Yoruba culture that resonates with a wide range of listeners.

Anti World Gangstars – Nothing Changed

While this album was officially released mid-December during the peak of the Detty December sensation, it took until the turn of the new year for listeners to fully digest this album and appreciate its immense quality. Odumodublvck, Agunna, Fatboy E, Reeplay, and Shagba carry their city on their heads and deliver an explosive and exciting rap project destined to become a cult classic.

Igho Mike & Mxps Rellington – Sunz On Pegasus

This collaborative project brings together two of Nigeria’s most exciting young rappers, resulting in a thrilling blend of mellow-aggressive beats and razor-sharp, introspective lyrics. The duo showcase their chemistry and delivers a thought-provoking album.

KingCap – For Life

KingCap’s latest offering is a profound and personal exploration of his life’s experiences. This introspective masterpiece delves into the complexities of the rapper’s inner world as he lays bare his struggles, fears, and means of escapism and triumphs. With picturesque storytelling and lyrical complexity, KingCap navigates themes of self-discovery, vulnerability, and resilience, delivering a deeply relatable album.

Nigerian hip-hop is indeed alive and thriving. With its array of talents at its disposal, the future of the genre looks brighter than ever. If you’re not tapped in already, you’re doing a big disservice to yourself.