In a year filled with vibrant musical offerings, Extended Plays (EPs) have solidified their crucial role within Nigeria's dynamic music scene. From propelling emerging talents into the limelight to offering established stars a platform for creative expression, the 2025 calendar was rich with compelling projects. Pulse Nigeria's Music Desk has meticulously sifted through releases from December 1, 2024, to December 1, 2025, to compile a definitive ranking of the ten most outstanding EPs.
The Criteria for a Top-Tier EP
The selection process was rigorous, focusing on three core pillars. First, the intrinsic Project Quality was paramount, evaluating track composition, sequencing, production value, and overall thematic and sonic coherence. Second, the Success and Impact of each EP was weighed, considering commercial performance relevant to its genre, audience acceptance, and its lasting shelf life in the market. This holistic approach ensured the list celebrated both artistic merit and cultural resonance.
The Definitive Top 10 Nigerian EPs of 2025
10. 'Spirit' by Vicoka: This eight-track debut stands as one of the year's most underrated gems. Newcomer Vicoka delivers a bold exploration of the pressures facing young men, masterfully blending Afropop, traditional Afrobeats, and his South-South cultural heritage. Tracks like the viral 'Spirit' and the reflective 'Port Harcourt' mark him as an artist poised to shape the future of Nigerian music.
9. 'Mr Bee' by Rybeena: Representing a significant coming-of-age leap, Rybeena's EP showcases newfound confidence. By fusing highlife, Afropop, and soul, he presents sharper songwriting and richer instrumentation than his previous work. While 'Adunni' broke into the Apple Music Nigeria Top 10, the EP's strength is its consistent quality beyond the single.
8. 'Easy on Dem' by Easyscope & Semzi: This nine-track collaboration is a burst of energy, powered by Semzi's standout production and Easyscope's melodic street-pop flow. The project effectively balances immediate impact with substantial replay value, solidifying both artists as growing forces in the industry.
7. 'Uncle K: Lemon Chase' by Kizz Daniel: Kizz Daniel plays to his proven strengths on this concise and satisfying EP. By delivering replayable hooks and consistent quality without straying from his signature sound, he demonstrates that familiarity, when executed well, guarantees longevity and relevance in Afro-Pop.
6. 'Wonderful' by Tay Iwar: Tay Iwar strikes a perfect balance between self-absorption and experimentation across five tracks. The EP weaves cultural homage, personal reflection, and love stories over intricate production that reveals new layers with each listen, proving his unique style has ample room for evolution.
5. 'Uzama the 3rd' by Famous Pluto: Built for the streets and the dance floor, this five-track project is irresistibly catchy and energetic. The opening track 'Ewo' went viral on TikTok, rapidly broadening Pluto's audience. By merging Afrobeats, Amapiano, and street flows, he shows both creativity and consistency, resulting in an EP with infectious replay value.
4. 'Children of Africa' by Seyi Vibez: Seyi Vibez returned with a sharp, focused EP that further cements his niche identity. The project, which hit number one on Apple Music Nigeria, bends various influences to his will without reliance on gimmicks. Its longevity is secured by listeners who continually return to discover new details, affirming his mastery of a winning formula.
3. 'GoodGirl' by GoodGirl LA: This EP combines personal storytelling with excellent execution. GoodGirl LA leverages her familiar strengths to create an immediately accessible project that doesn't sacrifice depth. Each track contributes to a larger narrative about growth and resilience, fostering a strong connection with her audience.
2. 'What A Feeling' by Fola: Fola's EP resonates deeply through its sheer relatability. It establishes his unique musical voice from the outset, helping him stand out in a crowded field. With over 100 million streams on Spotify, the project's market impact and wide appeal are undeniable, achieved through concise and tightly produced tracks.
The Top EP of 2025
1. 'Very Stubborn' by Victony: Claiming the top spot is Victony's masterpiece of honesty and introspection. Across eight tracks, he guides listeners through a spectrum of emotions without chasing trends. The EP's power lies in Victony's raw ability to convey feeling, supported by impeccable production and his signature vocal style. Having already surpassed 10 million streams on Spotify, 'Very Stubborn' is not just the year's strongest EP but a defining career moment for the artist.
This list underscores the diversity and vitality of Nigeria's music industry, where EPs continue to be powerful vehicles for artistic statement, commercial success, and deep audience connection.
