THE Nigerian entertainment industry recorded milestones in 2023, building on past feats to further showcase citizens’ ingeniousness, industriousness,  resilience, and versatility; it is also not without controversies. 

The year brought forth an array of triumphs, captivating performances, and inspirational stories that resonated with audiences both locally and internationally.

The music scene saw phenomenal achievements. Nigerian artists continued to dominate the global stage, with songs topping charts and receiving accolades worldwide.

The film industry also captivated audiences with its compelling narratives and stunning visuals. Nollywood’s influence extended beyond Nigerian shores, reaching a global audience eager for authentic and relatable African content.

In addition, the year was marked by the rise of digital entertainment platforms. Streaming services and online platforms provided new avenues for content creators to share their work and connect with audiences.

Though not without challenges, the Nigerian entertainment industry in 2023 stood as a testament to Nigerians’ boundless creativity and unyielding spirit.

In this report, The ICIR’s Itoro Etukudo highlights major events that drove the industry, the stories that resonated with millions, and the individuals whose talents and dedication brought these moments to life.

Tiwa Savage’s performance at King Charles III coronation concert

Tiwa Savage got the media buzzing after her performance at the coronation concert of the British Monarch, King Charles III. She performed ‘Keys to the Kingdom’ from Beyoncé’s  ‘Lion King: The Gift’ album. The performance also made her the first and only Nigerian to perform at a foreign royal coronation/event.

Hilda Baci’s GWR success

The famous Nigerian chef captured the nation’s attention with her impressive cook-a-thon attempt.

This remarkable cooking marathon gained phenomenal traction and captivated audiences nationwide.

The Cookathon gained immense popularity with support from prominent figures such as former Vice President Yemi Osibanjo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Akwa Ibom state Governor Umo Eno, celebrities including Tiwa Savage, Di’ja, and Wizkid, among others.

Hilda’s feat, lasting 93 hours and 11 minutes, surpassed the previous feat of 87 hours and 45 minutes set by Lata Tondon of India in 2019.

According to GWR, Hilda’s cook-a-thon was so popular that their website crashed for two days due to the immense volume of traffic they received from her legion of loyal fans.

Davido baby mama’s saga/ new twins

In the middle of the year, the Afrobeats star was embroiled in scandals as different women came out to allege that he impregnated them.

A United States-based lady, Anita Brown, accused the artiste of impregnating her, claiming they had been in a relationship since 2017.

Similarly, two other ladies, one from France and the other from Kenya, also claimed to be pregnant for the artiste.

Davido remained silent, neither confirming nor denying the allegations.

However, in October, a video that went viral showed him and his partner, Chioma, leaving a hospital in the US with the wife sitting in a wheelchair while cradling their newborn twins.

Mohbad’s death

The entire entertainment industry was sombre as news of the rapper’s death went viral.

Mohbad passed on at the age of 27 on September 12.

Despite extensive investigations, including an autopsy conducted after exhuming his body, the Police were unable to ascertain the cause of his death.

His untimely death left unanswered questions within the music industry and fueled speculations and intrigues.

Ilebaye as the winner of BBN All-Stars

Ilebaye Precious Odiniya, also known as Gen Z Baddie, emerged victorious in Africa’s most popular reality TV show, Big Brother Naija.

This season’s edition took an unconventional approach by bringing back former housemates from the previous six seasons to compete for the coveted grand prize.

Ilebaye won the show over other strong contenders, including Mercy Eke, CeeC, and Pere.