The Nigerian music scene has been set ablaze following a monumental declaration from rap heavyweight Olamide, who has officially crowned Wizkid as the rightful successor to Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti's throne.
The Toronto Declaration That Shook The Internet
During a guest appearance at York University in Toronto, Olamide Badoo dropped what many are calling a cultural bombshell. In a calm and assured manner, the YBNL boss stated unequivocally: "After Fela, Wizkid is the greatest Afrobeats artist ever."
The moment was captured in a clip that quickly went viral across social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where it sparked immediate and intense reactions from fans and industry observers alike.
Why Olamide's Words Carry Weight
Olamide is no ordinary commentator in the Nigerian music landscape. As one of the pioneering architects of the contemporary Nigerian sound, his opinion carries significant historical weight. The iconic rapper has not only shaped street music but has also nurtured numerous stars through his YBNL imprint.
His praise for Wizkid was specific and measured, highlighting the Starboy's global reach, timeless influence, and catalog of music that has transformed local rhythms into worldwide obsessions. The two artists share a history of successful collaborations, including generational hits like "Omo Toh Shan," "Kana," "Totori," and their recent 2025 single "Kai" that continues to dominate charts.
Digital Firestorm and Industry Implications
Within minutes of the declaration going public, social media platforms erupted. Wizkid's fanbase, known as Wizkid FC, celebrated Olamide's statement as long-overdue validation from what many consider "the streets' general." The debate quickly spread beyond fan circles to engage music critics, historians, and casual listeners alike.
At its core, this discussion transcends mere artist comparisons and touches on how Fela Kuti's legacy is interpreted in contemporary times. While Fela's revolution was loud, political, and confrontational, Wizkid's impact represents a different kind of cultural takeover—one that quietly conquered global playlists, bridged continents, and established African music as an international standard.
Olamide's endorsement positions Wizkid's success as not just commercial achievement but as cultural diplomacy. Wizkid's music has effectively served as a passport for Afrobeats, opening doors that once seemed impossible and transforming the genre from a niche interest into a worldwide phenomenon enjoyed from Lagos dance floors to Los Angeles rooftops.
The timing and location of Olamide's statement—during an educational institution appearance in Toronto—also underscores the global nature of modern Afrobeats and its reach across diasporic communities.
