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Nigeria’s music industry has risen to global prominence, with Afrobeats dominating the international music scene.
Currently valued at $2 billion and projected to reach $14.82 billion by 2025, the industry’s growth is fueled by the synergy between artists and visual storytellers.
While Nigerian artists are lauded for their talent and creativity, the contributions of videographers in elevating their success cannot be overlooked.
Nigerian music directors have been instrumental in shaping the visual identity of the country’s music, creating captivating narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. Their work has transformed music videos into cultural touchstones, garnering millions of views on platforms like YouTube and elevating artists to international prominence.
Iconic visuals like Davido’s Fall, Rema’s Calm Down featuring Selena Gomez, Wizkid’s Essence, and Burna Boy’s Last Last are more than just hit songs—they’re cultural exports with exceptional production value. For instance, Calm Down has surpassed a billion YouTube views, a feat achieved through the seamless integration of its audio and visuals.
These music videos have done more than generate views; they’ve opened doors for Nigerian artists to secure global brand endorsements, international collaborations, and prestigious awards. By delivering high-quality visuals, directors have reshaped perceptions of Nigerian music, presenting it as polished, innovative, and primed for the global stage.
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This article highlights 15 videographers who have played a pivotal role in defining the visual identity of Nigeria’s music industry.
These creative professionals are not only elevating the storytelling in music videos but also establishing Nigerian music as a global standard for creativity and quality.
TG Omori
ThankGod Omori Henry, widely known as TG Omori, is a celebrated Nigerian music video director and filmmaker from Cross River State. He began making videos at just 16 and, by 20, became Nigeria’s youngest professional filmmaker after graduating from the PEFTI Film Institute.
Omori’s breakthrough in the music industry came in 2018, directing videos for a diverse range of Nigerian artists across multiple genres. His early collaborations include industry heavyweights like Olamide, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Tekno, Kizz Daniel, Fireboy DML, Falz, Timaya, Naira Marley, Asake, and more.
By 2019, TG Omori had solidified his place as one of the most sought-after directors, with his visually stunning works dominating music video charts on platforms like MTV, Soundcity, and Trace.
Some of TG Omori’s standout videos from this period include Naira Marley’s controversial “Am I a Yahoo Boy”, Olamide and Wizkid’s “Totori”, and Naira Marley’s “Soapy,” which earned the Viewer’s Choice award at the 2020 Soundcity MVP Awards Festival.
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In 2021, Omori continued to make waves with his direction of CKay’s “Love Nwantiti” North African remix featuring ElGrande Toto. The video went viral, amassing over 34 million YouTube views within a month.
TG Omori’s impressive videography includes hits like “My Side” by Ycee (2018), “Billionaire” by Teni (2019), “Odogwu” by Burna Boy (2020), and “Champion” by Fireboy DML (2022). His work consistently connects with both Nigerian and international audiences, playing a pivotal role in the global recognition of Afrobeat music.
Throughout his career, Omori has earned numerous accolades. He was nominated for Best Music Video at the 2021 Headies for Teni’s “Billionaire” and won Best Music Video Director of the Year at the 2022 Headies for Fireboy DML’s “Champion.”
Clarence Peters
Clarence Abiodun Peters is a distinguished Nigerian music video director, filmmaker, and cinematographer, celebrated for his significant contributions to the Nigerian music and film industries. His creative vision has shaped the visual aesthetics of contemporary Nigerian music, producing some of the country’s most iconic music videos.
Notable Music Videos Directed by Clarence Peters:
- “Eminado” by Tiwa Savage feat. Don Jazzy
- “Alingo” by P-Square: A major hit that solidified the duo’s global appeal.
- “Pakurumo” by Wizkid: A vibrant, engaging video that elevated Wizkid’s status as an international star.
- “Kedike” by Chidinma
- “Durosoke” by Olamide: This video captured Olamide’s street-smart persona and matched the song’s raw energy.
- “5 & 6” by Naeto C
- “Skibo” by Solidstar
- “Yes/No” by Banky W
Achievements and Contributions:
Clarence Peters has earned numerous accolades, including the Best Music Video Director award at The Headies and the Nigeria Music Video Awards. Known for his masterful cinematography and editing, he has set new benchmarks in the industry.
As the founder and CEO of Capital Hill Records, Peters has nurtured talents like Chidinma, Tha Suspect, and Illbliss, playing a pivotal role in their careers and contributing to the dynamic evolution of Nigerian music.
Legacy:
Clarence Peters remains a driving force in Nigerian cinema and music video production, influencing the visual storytelling of music in Nigeria and across Africa. His work continues to define and elevate the African music scene on a global scale.
Unlimited LA
Buari Olalekan Oluwasegun, widely known as Unlimited L.A., is a celebrated Nigerian music video director born on April 2, 1987, in Lagos, Nigeria. A cousin of acclaimed director DJ Tee, he has been a significant figure in the music video industry since 2011, collaborating with top artists such as Olamide, Timaya, and Reekado Banks.
Achievements and Awards:
- 2015: Won Best Director at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards and Best Music Video at The Headies for Di’Ja’s “Awww”.
- Nominated at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).
- 2016: Garnered multiple nominations at The Headies and Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
- 2017: Won Best Director of the Year at the City People Entertainment Awards.
Notable Videography:
- Olamide:
- “Story for the Gods”
- “Wo!!”
- “Science Student”
- Timaya:
- “Bam Bam”
- “Sanko”
Additional Work:
Beyond music videos, Unlimited L.A. has directed commercials for major brands such as Glo, Gala, and Essenza Beauty, showcasing his versatility in visual storytelling.
Legacy:
Unlimited L.A.’s exceptional direction and creativity have earned him multiple accolades and cemented his position as one of Nigeria’s most influential music video directors. His work continues to shape the visual identity of Nigerian music both locally and internationally.
Sesan Ogunro (Sesan)
Sesan Ogunro, born on January 11, 1983, is a highly regarded Nigerian music video director based in the UK. He is known for his work with top Afrobeats artists such as D’Banj, Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, and Davido. Sesan is the CEO of Film Factory Nigeria and Film Factory South Africa.
Early Life and Education:
Sesan was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, before moving to the UK, where he studied 3D Animation and Visual Effects at the University of West London. Inspired by his late father, a prominent Nigerian advertising mogul, Sesan began his career in the UK’s urban underground scene before transitioning to mainstream music video direction.
Breakthrough and Career:
Sesan’s breakthrough came in 2007 when he directed D’Banj’s “Suddenly”, which marked the start of a long-term collaboration, including the award-winning video for “Oliver Twist”. This helped establish his reputation as one of the top music video directors in the Afrobeats industry.
Notable Works:
- “The Sound” – Davido
- “Soweto Baby” – Wizkid
- “Gringo” – Shatta Wale
Achievements and Awards:
Sesan has received several prestigious awards, including:
- Channel O’s Most Gifted Male Video for “Oliver Twist”
- MTV Africa’s Best Collaboration Video for “Soweto Baby”
Film Factory:
Sesan runs Film Factory alongside his sister, Fade Ogunro, a company that has played a pivotal role in producing high-quality music videos and content for major artists in the Afrobeats scene.
Sesan’s work has been instrumental in shaping the visual identity of Afrobeats, helping elevate the genre to a global audience. He continues to be a key figure in the industry, with his creative direction impacting both local and international music scenes.
Moe Musa
Moe Musa, born in Lagos, Nigeria, and raised in the UK, is a renowned music video director and filmmaker. He attended Carshalton Boys High School, Carshalton College, and later the University of West London, where he earned a BSc in Media Technology in 2009.
Early Career:
Musa began his career as a freelance filmmaker and made his directorial debut in 2009. In 2012, he founded Mr Moe Musa Productions and quickly gained international recognition with his music video for Fuse ODG’s “Antenna”, featuring Wyclef Jean.
Notable Works:
Moe Musa’s portfolio includes iconic music videos for major Afrobeats artists, including:
- Wizkid – “Azonto”
- Davido – “Skelewu”
- Tiwa Savage – “Wanted”
- Korede Bello – “Romantic”
Other standout projects in his videography include: - Wizkid – “On Top of Your Matter”
- Davido – “Holiday”
- Olamide – “Turn Up”
- Diamond Platnumz – “Bobo”
- Diamond Platnumz feat. Rick Ross – “Waka”
Recognition and Awards:
Moe Musa’s distinctive style has earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Best Music Video Director at The Headies (2013)
- City People Entertainment Awards (2013)
Musa’s creative direction and influence in the Afrobeats scene have made him one of the leading music video directors, known for his vibrant and engaging visuals that elevate African music on a global scale.
Director K
Aremu Olaiwola Qudus, also known as Director K, began his career in 2015 when he shot his first music video using an iPhone, driven by curiosity. He gained recognition in 2018 after directing the music video for Teni’s “Case”, followed by Skiibii’s “Sensima”. In 2019, he co-founded PriorGold Pictures, a media and production services company focused on music videos, creative visuals, and television.
Director K’s prominence grew with major projects like Burna Boy’s “Wonderful” and Sauti Sol’s “Suzannah”, both of which earned him nominations for Best Music Video at the 2020 Afrimma Awards. He won the Best Music Video award at The Headies 2020 for directing Davido’s “1 Milli”.
His work on “Essence” by Wizkid featuring Tems (2021) marked a significant career milestone as the song went on to receive a Grammy nomination and became the first African track to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 and Global 200.
Notable works include:
- “Sensima” by Skiibii (2018)
- “Wonderful” by Burna Boy (2020)
- “1 Milli” by Davido (2020)
- “Essence” by Wizkid feat. Tems (2021)
- “Bounce” by Rema (2022)
He has also directed music videos for Timaya, Zlatan, and Adekunle Gold, among others.
Beyond music videos, Director K has worked on commercials such as DStv’s “Football Is Back” (2020), Kellogg’s “World’s Number One” (2021), and Havana Club’s Skepta X Havana Club 2.0 (2021).
Director K’s work has earned him multiple accolades. In 2020, he won The Headies Best Music Video Award for “1 Milli” by Davido, and in 2021, he won the African Entertainment Awards USA Best Music Video Award for “Essence”. In 2023, he was nominated for Video of the Year at the Soundcity MVP Awards Festival for “Calm Down” by Rema.
Meji Alabi
Meji Alabi, born on December 13, 1988, in London, is a Nigerian filmmaker, director, photographer, and producer celebrated for his collaborations with global artists like Beyoncé, Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and Tiwa Savage.
Meji’s early years were shaped by frequent relocations due to his parents’ separation, living in London, the Bahamas, and Texas, USA. He attended Spring Forest Middle School and Stratford High School in Texas, earning a first-class degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of West London and a Licensed Vocational Nursing degree from St. Phillips College in San Antonio, Texas.
In 2014, Meji co-founded JM Films, a Lagos-based media and production company, and later Priorgold Pictures. His directorial career gained momentum with Seyi Shay’s “Murda” in 2014, which earned nominations at the MTV Africa Music Awards, followed by “Crazy” featuring Wizkid in 2015.
Notable Works:
- Burna Boy: “On the Low,” “Gum Body,” “Monsters You Made”
- Beyoncé: Co-directed the Grammy-winning “Brown Skin Girl”
- Commercials: Directed campaigns for Guinness, KFC, and Coca-Cola
Awards:
- Best Music Video at the Soundcity MVP Awards
- Best Music Video at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards
Meji Alabi continues to influence the global music and media landscape, blending creative storytelling with striking visuals.
Director Pink
Praise Onyeagwalam, known professionally as Director Pink, is a talented Nigerian music video director, cinematographer, and film director. She is the founder of Pinkline Films, a Nigerian production company.
Career Highlights:
Director Pink began her career in 2020 with the production of “Philomena” by Marxii. She gained widespread acclaim in 2021 for her direction of “Running To You” by Chike featuring Simi, which became the most-viewed music video in the first half of 2021.
In November 2021, she expanded into film, producing the short horror film “Lady Koikoi,” inspired by the Nigerian high school folktale Madam Koikoi. Her diverse portfolio includes collaborations with top artists across genres such as Wizkid, Lil Kesh, Mercy Chinwo, and more.
Selected Videography:
- 2024:
- Egwu (Chike ft. Mohbad)
- Confidence (Mercy Chinwo)
- Spell (Chike ft. Oxlade)
- Bienvenue (DJ Neptune ft. Ruger)
- 2023:
- No More Condition (Rexxie ft. Zinoleesky)
- Asiko (Rexxie ft. Lojay)
- Abracadabra (Wizkid, Skiibii, Naira Marley & Rexxie)
- 2022:
- Breakfast (Ugoccie ft. Phyno)
- Hard To Find (Chike ft. Flavour)
- Peace (Brown Joel)
- Nwoke Oma (Chike)
- 2021:
- Dangerous (Cheque ft. Ayra Starr)
- My Only Baby (Ric Hassani)
- For You (Chidinma Ekile)
- 2020:
- You No Love Me (Chike ft. Mayorkun)
- Running To You (Chike ft. Simi)
- Philomena (Marxii)
Director Pink’s innovative approach and storytelling continue to set her apart, making her one of the most sought-after music video directors in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Dammy Twitch
Dammy Twitch is a visionary Nigerian filmmaker, music video director, and entrepreneur, best known for founding Polar Films Production and Kadiri Studios. These production companies have collaborated with prestigious global brands such as Google, Infinix, Tecno Mobile, Nestle, Bet9ja, 1xBet, Jimmy Fallon, Oppo, and Coca-Cola.
Career Highlights:
Dammy Twitch has directed music videos for several renowned artists, including:
- Davido
- Mayorkun
- Falz
- Omah Lay
- Zlatan
- DaBaby
- Yung Bleu
- Simi
In 2023, he made his debut in feature filmmaking with “I Hate It Here”, a poignant narrative exploring the destructive impact of domestic violence on families and its enduring emotional effects on children.
Recognition:
In 2022, Dammy Twitch earned a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30, highlighting his influence as one of Africa’s most inspiring young talents. This accolade celebrates his significant contributions to the creative industry and his enduring impact on future generations.
Dammy Twitch continues to be a trailblazer, blending creativity and storytelling to redefine the landscape of African entertainment.
Adasa Cookey
Adasa Cookey, born Adasa Rawlinson Cookeygam, is a celebrated Nigerian music video director, cinematographer, commercial director, colourist, and filmmaker. He is the CEO of Squareball Media Productions Limited, a dynamic company that also operates as a record label, representing artists like 1da Banton and Eli Jae. Renowned for his creative vision and technical mastery, Adasa has become a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s music video industry.
Career Highlights:
Adasa Cookey has collaborated with some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including:
- Davido
- Burna Boy
- Simi
- Adekunle Gold
- D’Prince
- Don Jazzy
His work is lauded for its cinematic quality, innovative color grading, and emotional resonance. Notable music videos directed by Adasa include:
- “Like To Party” – Burna Boy (2013)
- “Jericho” – Simi featuring Patoranking (2019)
- “Duduke” – Simi (2020)
Accolades:
Adasa’s exceptional work has earned him numerous awards and nominations, such as:
- Best Music Video Director of the Year – City People Entertainment Awards (Nominee, 2016)
- Video Director of the Year – GALAXY AWARDS (Winner, 2020)
- Best African Video – AFRIMA Awards (Nominee, 2019 & 2017)
Adasa Cookey’s innovative approach and storytelling brilliance have solidified his place as one of the most influential directors in Africa’s entertainment industry.
Adasa Cookey, born Adasa Rawlinson Cookeygam, is a celebrated Nigerian music video director, cinematographer, commercial director, colourist, and filmmaker. He is the CEO of Squareball Media Productions Limited, a dynamic company that also operates as a record label, representing artists like 1da Banton and Eli Jae. Renowned for his creative vision and technical mastery, Adasa has become a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s music video industry.
Career Highlights:
Adasa Cookey has collaborated with some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including:
- Davido
- Burna Boy
- Simi
- Adekunle Gold
- D’Prince
- Don Jazzy
His work is lauded for its cinematic quality, innovative color grading, and emotional resonance. Notable music videos directed by Adasa include:
- “Like To Party” – Burna Boy (2013)
- “Jericho” – Simi featuring Patoranking (2019)
- “Duduke” – Simi (2020)
Accolades:
Adasa’s exceptional work has earned him numerous awards and nominations, such as:
- Best Music Video Director of the Year – City People Entertainment Awards (Nominee, 2016)
- Video Director of the Year – GALAXY AWARDS (Winner, 2020)
- Best African Video – AFRIMA Awards (Nominee, 2019 & 2017)
Adasa Cookey’s innovative approach and storytelling brilliance have solidified his place as one of the most influential directors in Africa’s entertainment industry.
Patrick Elis
Patrick Eritobor, widely recognized as Patrick Elis, is a celebrated Nigerian film and music video director. Renowned for his vibrant visuals and cinematic storytelling, Patrick is considered one of the most influential directors in the African entertainment industry. With a portfolio of over 100 music videos, he has been instrumental in shaping the visual identity of African music.
Career Milestones:
Patrick’s breakthrough came with his direction of Wizkid’s debut hit video, “Holla at Your Boy”, which remains an iconic visual in Nigerian music history. Since then, he has collaborated with top-tier artists, including:
- Akon
- Wale
- Davido
- Burna Boy
- Tiwa Savage
- Flavor
- Olamide
- 2Baba
- Reekado Banks
- Phyno
- Rema
Style and Impact:
Known for blending vibrant colors with compelling narratives, Patrick Elis’s work has set a standard in music video production. His ability to enhance an artist’s message through striking visuals has earned him widespread acclaim.
Awards and Recognition:
In 2016, Patrick won the AFRIMMA Award for Best Video Director, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the industry. His dedication to excellence continues to inspire a new generation of African filmmakers and music video directors.
Avalon Okpe
Avalon Okpe, son of Reverend J.O.M. Okpe, grew up in Eastern Nigeria, where his disciplined, clergy-centered upbringing shaped his values. However, his innate creativity led him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, particularly in visual storytelling and filmmaking.
Early Career:
Avalon honed his skills in filmmaking and editing under the mentorship of Mr. Femi Abatan (Simple Fem) in Enugu. His passion and dedication to the craft culminated in the founding of Tokindrumz Pictures in 2011, marking the beginning of his rise in the Nigerian music video industry.
Collaborations and Impact:
Through Tokindrumz Pictures, Avalon has worked with some of Nigeria’s most prominent music artists, including:
- KCee
- Phyno
- Olamide
- Flavour
- Davido
- Tiwa Savage
Awards and Recognition:
Avalon has been celebrated for his innovative approach, earning accolades such as:
- Best New Director at the NMVA (2015 & 2016)
- E-Celeb Award in 2016
Notable Works:
Avalon is credited with visually stunning and emotionally impactful projects, including:
- “Capable God” by Judikay
- “Taking Care” by Moses Bliss featuring Mercy Chinwo
His fresh perspective and creative direction continue to invigorate the Nigerian music video industry, making him a sought-after filmmaker.
Daps
Oladapo Fagbenle, professionally known as Daps, is a Nigerian-born British artist, music video director, and former NCAA athlete renowned for creating visually stunning music videos for global music stars.
Early Life and Education
Daps grew up in a family of notable achievers, including his brother O-T Fagbenle (British actor), Luti Fagbenle (video producer), and Temi Fagbenle (WNBA player). Initially pursuing basketball, he played for the Westminster Warriors in London before moving to the United States, where he attended Campbell University and later Bellarmine University, earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Career Transition
Daps shifted from sports to the media industry, starting as a video producer in New York and London. By 2013, he began directing music videos, blending his creative vision with an instinct for storytelling, quickly gaining recognition.
Breakthrough and Recognition
In 2016, Daps achieved international fame with Migos’ “Bad and Boujee”, which became a cultural phenomenon, solidifying his reputation as one of the top music video directors.
Notable Videography
Daps has worked with some of the biggest names in music, delivering iconic visuals, including:
- Migos – “Bad & Boujee,” “T-Shirt,” “Slippery”
- Stormzy – “Big for Your Boots”
- Iggy Azalea – “Black Widow” (featuring Rita Ora), “Team”
- Kendrick Lamar – “King Kunta”
- Davido – “Fall,” “Like Dat”
- Wizkid – “Come Closer” (featuring Drake)
- 2 Chainz – “Blue Cheese” (featuring Migos)
- Lil Baby – “Close Friends”
Legacy
Daps’ work is celebrated for its cinematic flair, vibrant aesthetics, and innovative storytelling. His ability to craft videos that resonate across cultures has cemented his position as a leading figure in the global entertainment industry.
Perlinks
Abdulrasaq Adebayo Babalola, professionally known as Perliks or A Perliks Definition, is a Nigerian music video director celebrated for his innovative storytelling and artistic visuals.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born into a creative family, Perliks is the son of TELEMOON, a veteran Fuji music video director. His initial career aspirations included becoming a footballer, doctor, or pilot, but his path shifted after accompanying his father to a shoot. This experience inspired him to explore videography.
Perliks began his journey by learning video editing under his father’s mentorship and, by 2012, was directing music videos for friends. His creative pursuits expanded into photography, where he gained recognition before returning to video direction with a renewed passion.
Notable Music Video Projects
Perliks has worked with top Nigerian artists, crafting visually compelling music videos, including:
- Blaqbonez – “Back in Uni” (2022)
- BNXN feat. Kizz Daniel & Seyi Vibez – “Gwagwalada” (2023)
- Rema – “Charm” (2023)
- Fireboy DML – “Yawa” (2023)
- BNXN – “Say My Name” (2024)
Legacy
Known for blending creativity with technical skill, Perliks continues to push boundaries in Nigerian music video production, delivering works that resonate with audiences while showcasing the vibrant essence of Afrobeat culture.
Abdulazeez Greene Oladimeji, widely recognized as Abula, is a multifaceted Nigerian cinematographer, music video director, filmmaker, commercial director, and talent manager. He is the founder and CEO of The Greenade Company, which has become a prominent force in Nigeria’s music and entertainment industries.
Career Journey
Abula’s passion for filmmaking began at the age of 13, using his phone to shoot videos. While pursuing a degree in History and International Relations at Lagos State University, he decided to transition his hobby into a professional career.
His breakthrough came in 2016, and by 2017, he co-directed Zlatan’s “My Body,” marking his entry into the music video industry. Over time, Abula expanded his portfolio to include viral skits and high-profile collaborations, solidifying his reputation as an innovative storyteller.
Notable Works
Abula has worked with leading Nigerian artists, producing captivating visuals, including:
- Zlatan – “My Body”
- Dr Dolor – “I Go Pay”
- MohBad – “Ponmo Sweet”
- Portable, Fireboy DML, Adekunle Gold, and his wife, Taaooma, also feature in his impressive catalog.
Awards and Recognition
- 2020: Nominated for Music Video Director of the Year at the City People Awards.
- 2023: Nominated for The Future Awards Africa Prize for Film.
Personal Life
In 2021, Abula married popular skit maker and actress Taaooma, blending their personal and professional lives as key figures in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
Legacy
Through The Greenade Company and his visionary approach, Abula continues to shape the narrative of Nigerian music and film, blending creativity and culture in groundbreaking ways.
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