The Nigerian digital entertainment landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a surge in live streaming. A new wave of content creators, including popular skit makers and reality TV stars, are pioneering this space, turning their screens into stages for global audiences.
The Pioneers of Nigeria's Streaming Revolution
This boom, gaining notable momentum since 2024, is being led by a cadre of digital-savvy celebrities. Emmanuel Adesokan, known as Shank Comic, is widely regarded as the most followed African streamer on Twitch. He transitioned from being a Twitter influencer and skit maker to full-time streaming, hosting high-profile sessions with international figures like Kai Cenat and Reginae Carter.
Similarly, Habeeb Hamzat (Peller) rose to fame through TikTok livestreams and now holds the record for Africa’s highest-viewed stream on Kick, with 76,000 concurrent viewers. He has hosted stars like Olamide, Tiwa Savage, and Davido.
Oderhohwo Joseph Efe (Carter Efe), another skit maker turned streamer, entered the scene in 2025 and witnessed rapid growth, notably after a live session with Afrobeats superstar Davido. Former BBNaija winner Ijeoma Josephina Otabor (Phyna) launched her Twitch channel in 2026, joining the trend, while Nollywood actor Charles Okocha is the latest celebrity to announce his foray into streaming.
Overcoming Challenges: Streaming in a Tough Environment
This growth is happening despite significant infrastructural hurdles. Unlike in the United States and other developed markets, reliable internet, affordable data, and steady electricity remain luxuries for many Nigerians. A notable example was a power outage that interrupted a live stream between Shank Comic and Kai Cenat. These challenges mean venturing into professional live streaming requires substantial investment and resilience.
Nevertheless, the success of these early adopters has proven that Nigerian creators can compete on a global scale. They are inspiring a generation to explore streaming as a viable career path. The primary platforms fueling this boom include Twitch, Kick, YouTube Live, TikTok Live, Instagram Live, and Facebook Live.
How Nigerian Streamers Are Earning From Live Content
The income potential in live streaming varies dramatically. According to industry insights, earnings can range from near zero for beginners to thousands of dollars monthly for top creators. Revenue streams for streamers include advertisements, platform subscriptions, viewer tips (donations), channel memberships, and brand sponsorship deals.
While established streamers with large audiences can earn significantly, smaller creators might generate between $100 to $500 per month from tips and affiliate marketing. This monetization model is creating new economic opportunities within Nigeria's creative industry.
The live streaming wave in Nigeria, spearheaded by these digital entrepreneurs, marks a pivotal shift in content creation and consumption. It demonstrates how local talent is leveraging global platforms to build communities, forge new careers, and put Nigerian digital entertainment on the world map, all while navigating unique local challenges.
