Nigeria is a diverse nation with multiple religions, so it's natural to have artists who follow the Muslim faith.
You know them for their chart-topping hits, their electrifying performances, and their undeniable influence on Nigerian culture. But what you might not know is that many of your favourite Afrobeats stars are devout Muslims.
Let’s look at 8 Nigerian artists who you didn’t know were Muslim, number 3 will shock you.
1. Reminisce (Remilekun Abdulkalid Safaru)
Reminisce, a renowned rapper and songwriter, has left a lasting impact on the Nigerian music scene with his unique rap style. His deep connection to his Muslim faith is a defining aspect of his music and public persona. Unlike many celebrities, Reminisce openly embraces his religious beliefs in a Zikoko interview, stating, "I want them to identify me as Muslim. I’m still liberal, but I practise Islam as a way of life beyond prayers and fasting."
2. Oladips (Oladipupo Olabode Oladimeji)
Oladips has been at the centre of controversy in 2024 due to his fake death stunt. Despite maintaining a low profile about his personal beliefs, the Chache crooner has mentioned visiting a Mosque to pray on multiple occasions. Based on the available evidence, it suggests that he follows the Muslim faith.
3. 9ice (Alexander Abolore Adegbola Akande)
9ice, known for his hit song Gongo Aso, incorporates elements of his Yoruba culture into his music. While he keeps his religious life relatively low-key, it's worth noting that he is a Muslim, influenced by his father's core Islamic beliefs. Interestingly, despite his Muslim faith, his mother practices Christianity. In 2020, 9ice was seen performing the Islamic prayer with his daughters, further affirming his Muslim identity.
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4. Naira Marley (Azeez Fashola)
Naira Marley, known for his controversial lyrics and street-influenced style, is a practicing Muslim. Despite his often provocative public image, he observes Islamic practices, especially during Ramadan. In 2021, he confirmed it when he tweeted "I’m a Muslim but I believe in Jesus". He is also recognized for offering Ramadan advice, such as in 2023 when he advised Muslims not to bet during Ramadan.
5. Seyi Vibez (Balogun Afolabi Oluwaloseyi)
Seyi Vibez, a prominent figure in Nigeria's street music scene, is a Muslim. His music often reflects his street upbringing, but he stays connected to his faith through religious references. Time and time again, he has infused Islamic prayers and phrases into his music. In 2023, Seyi Vibez suffered a severe backlash from the Muslim community after he opened his music video with a Quranic verse.
6. CDQ (Sodiq Abubakar Yusuf)
Hailing from a Muslim family, CDQ's rap music has a strong connection with the streets. While he maintains a public image as a secular artist, his personal style often reflects his Muslim heritage. Beyond the stage, he is frequently seen in traditional Islamic attire.
7. Sound Sultan (Olanrewaju Fasasi)
Sound Sultan, a veteran of the Nigerian music scene, was a deeply committed Muslim. Known for his socially conscious songs, his faith was a cornerstone of his life. This was evident in his wife's conversion to Islam in the early 2020s and his swift burial according to Muslim rites upon his passing in 2021.
8. Eedris Abdulkareem
Hailing from a Muslim family, Eedris Abdulkareem is one of Nigeria's most respected rappers. Growing up in a polygamous household, he has practiced Islam throughout his life.
