In February 2021, Spotify launched in Nigeria. Five years later, the streaming platform is marking a milestone defined by explosive growth, cultural influence, and a generation of young listeners shaping music in real time.
Since launch, Nigeria’s year-on-year listening has averaged an impressive 163.5% growth. Afrobeats continues to power the surge, recording a +5,022% increase in streams between 2021 and 2025. Other genres have also seen massive gains, including Amapiano (+10,330%), Gospel (+5,499%), Hip-hop/Rap (+3,020%), and R&B (+2,602%).
Indigenous-language music is rising strongly both within Nigeria and globally, reflecting a growing appetite for authentic local storytelling.
Over the past five years, Nigeria’s most-streamed artists have been Asake, Wizkid, Seyi Vibez, Burna Boy, and Davido. Also, the most-streamed songs during this period include “Remember” by Asake, “Dealer” by Ayo Maff and Fireboy DML, “Awolowo” by Fido, “Kese (Dance)” by Wizkid, and “Lonely At The Top” by Asake.
Finally, with over 25 million user-generated playlists created and a 158% increase in Nigerian artists on the platform, Spotify’s first five years in Nigeria reflects a thriving, fast-evolving music ecosystem.
