Nigerian comedian Sirbalo, whose real name is Obotuke Timothy Ochuko, has disclosed that a single Facebook video earned him over $4 million after amassing 2.1 billion views. The revelation came during a recent interview clip that circulated widely online, prompting intense debate among fans and fellow creators.
How the Earnings Stacked Up
Sirbalo explained that at the height of Facebook's monetization generosity, creators could earn roughly $200 for every 100,000 views. With his video reaching 2.1 billion views, that rate alone would put his earnings at approximately $4.2 million. He also noted that the platform's RPM (revenue per mille) could spike dramatically, allowing creators to pocket as much as $8 for every 1,000 views.
In his own words: "So you know I got 2.1 billion views. You can imagine how much I made from the video. Funny enough Facebook was sweet then. Then, you can have 100k views and get like $200, $300. There was a time your RPM will Skyrocket and you will see $8. So, 1,000 views will give you $8. So you can imagine how much you get getting 100k views. So Facebook was sweet then. Not like now that they're using quality views."
Building a Fanbase Through Consistency
Sirbalo built his fanbase through years of consistent comedy skit uploads, tapping into broad African audiences who responded enthusiastically to his humour. His story is being held up as one of the examples of how early Facebook creators in Nigeria could convert viral content into life-changing income.
The disclosure drew a flood of reactions from Nigerians online, with opinions sharply divided between admiration and scepticism. One user, @ClarkJason51940, wrote: "But he's not caping thou money really dy Facebook and other social media, sabinus really say the same thing the problem with it is the monetizering." Another user, @_CD2, commented: "He's one of those Facebook creators that rack up views with unfunny contents."
Mixed Reactions From Fans
Some users defended Sirbalo's claims, pointing out that other creators have made similar statements. @Ak_Bethh noted: "Once you're a Nigerian and mention numbers people say you're lying ? But when the white guy who interviews billionaires said he made most of his money from fb and it was millions, no one said anything." @bwsbird observed: "Na why Areaboys they collect money from anybody wey on camera ? to shoot content for road be this."
@Innocent584 added: "To make money for facebook now na war oo." @enudiwisdom_ asked: "2.1 billion views wow. Wetin exactly he post." @LunaMutra simply said: "Money dey Facebook like this."
Sirbalo's Decade of Content Success
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Sirbalo marked his 10-year milestone in content creation. He revealed that he runs 10 YouTube channels, has earned five YouTube awards, and boasts 15 million followers on his monetised Facebook account. Celebrating his achievements, Sirbalo showcased his award plaques alongside his newly acquired G-Wagon and expressed gratitude to fans for their support.
