Singer, songwriter, and record producer Ajobi Oko Ididu, known professionally as Ajobi, has praised the remarkable transformation of Nigeria's music scene. He points to a new era defined by superior production quality, unprecedented international reach, and greater creative liberty for emerging talents.
The Global Stage and Digital Revolution
According to Ajobi, Nigerian music has successfully broken through local confines. Afrobeats and other indigenous sounds now regularly feature on global charts and inspire artists worldwide. He credits digital platforms and social media for this shift, as they allow musicians to distribute their work, engage with fans, and build a following without depending entirely on major record labels.
"Today, Nigerian artistes are more confident in telling their stories through music, knowing that the world is listening," Ajobi stated. He believes this evolution fosters creativity, collaboration, and international recognition, particularly for those who innovate while honoring their cultural roots.
Ajobi's Journey and Defining AfroDepartment
Born on September 15, 1999, in Yala, Cross River State, Ajobi was raised in Abuja. His early exposure to music came through his father's work in artist management with We Go Yan All Stars, under K.K. Sunny Production. This background gave him early insights into studio operations, artist development, and the business side of the industry.
Drawing from these experiences, he began crafting music that merges classic Afrobeat rhythms with modern and experimental sounds. In 2022, he formally coined the term "AfroDepartment" to describe this unique approach, which aims to expand Afrobeat's stylistic range while keeping its rhythmic core intact.
Independence and Recognition
Also in 2022, Ajobi founded his independent record label, Baye Department (B.D), where he acts as creative lead. This move aligns with a growing trend among Nigerian artists choosing independence to maintain full creative control over their output.
His single "Guarantee," released in 2023, gained significant traction on TikTok and other social media, broadening his audience. The following year, his efforts were recognized when he received the Artist of the Year award at the Creativity and Excellence Awards, organized by Kristal Koncepts Entertainment, a subsidiary of the Vic-Kristal Group of Companies. This award highlighted his impactful work within the independent music space.
Ajobi concludes that the industry's growth encourages artistic experimentation, enabling a fusion of traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds without losing Nigeria's distinct cultural identity.
