By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Nigerian artists generated over ₦60 billion on Spotify in 2025, according to the platform’s Loud & Clear report released on Tuesday. The report shows how artists earned revenue, where streams came from, and why global demand keeps rising. It also highlights who drives growth, what genres trend, and how listening habits evolve.
Strong Revenue Growth in Nigeria’s Music Industry
Spotify reported a major increase in earnings by Nigerian artists. Revenue from the platform alone grew by more than 140% over the past two years.
In 2025, Nigerian artists recorded 30.3 billion streams and 1.6 billion listening hours. These figures confirm the commercial strength of Nigeria’s music scene.
Additionally, artists reached new audiences over 1.3 billion times, marking a 26% increase from 2024.
Independent Artists Lead Royalty Earnings
Independent artists and labels played a dominant role in 2025. They accounted for 58% of total royalties earned by Nigerian artists on Spotify.
This trend shows that more creators now succeed without major label backing. It also reflects the growing accessibility of digital distribution tools.
Spotify Playlists Boost Artist Discovery
Spotify’s editorial playlists continued to support artist growth. In 2025, nearly 2,000 Nigerian artists appeared on these playlists.
Globally, Nigerian artists featured in about 320 million user-created playlists. Meanwhile, listeners in Nigeria created over 12 million playlists featuring local music.
In total, more than 60 million playlists included Nigerian songs during the year.
Local Music Consumption Surges
Local demand for Nigerian music increased sharply. Nigerian artists occupied over 80% of tracks on Spotify Nigeria’s Daily Top 50 chart.
At the same time, local streams of Nigerian music grew by 170% year-on-year. This surge shows stronger support from home audiences.
Female and Independent Artists Record Major Growth
Specific artist groups experienced significant gains.
- Streams of Nigerian female artists rose by 55% year-on-year
- Independent Nigerian artists saw a 75% increase in streams
These numbers highlight a more inclusive and diverse industry.
Emerging Genres Shape Listening Habits
Nigerian listeners explored a wider range of music styles. Over the past five years, fast-growing genres include:
- Pop urbaine
- Alternative pop
- Anime
- Emo
- Drill
This shift reflects a rapidly evolving music culture among Nigerian audiences.
Global Influence of Nigerian Music Expands
Spotify’s Managing Director for Africa, Jocelyne Muhutu-Remy, said Nigeria’s music continues to shape global culture.
She explained that artists now reach wider audiences while strengthening local connections. She also noted that the report highlights new pathways for sustainable careers.
A Growing Global Music Ecosystem
Overall, the data shows a thriving ecosystem. Nigerian artists continue to expand internationally while maintaining strong local support.
Streaming platforms now play a key role in revenue growth, audience reach, and career development.
