Setting the Stage for Transformation

Gone are the days when trying to break into the Nigerian entertainment industry meant begging producers, attending auditions like they were going out of style or suspecting your village people for plotting against your destiny.

Today, all of that has changed because social media has opened up mind-blowing opportunities for everyone interested. Now, anyone with a smartphone and reliable WiFi can share their voice and ideas.

With Instagram comedians gaining millions of followers and TikTok dancers getting brand deals, social media has changed for the better in the Nigerian entertainment world. If you aspire to be an artist, comedian, or content creator, the digital world offers you countless opportunities.

You will need to know how to successfully navigate these opportunities. So, let’s explore all the exciting ways social media is changing the face of Nigerian entertainment.

The Power of Viral Content: How Social Media Amplifies Talent in Nigeria

Not too long ago, becoming a star was quite hard, like trying to withdraw cash from an empty ATM. Now, a key game changer is social media. Apps such as Instagram and TikTok are transforming regular Nigerians into famous household names instantaneously.

Do you remember when Portable blew up with Zazoo Zeh? Or how the Ikorodu Bois started to recreate scenes from blockbuster movies and got noticed by Hollywood? That’s the power viral content wields.

Algorithms play an important role in this magical process. They promote content based on how popular it is; think high engagement rates. This means that even if you live in a small village with only one suya spot and no electricity, if your content is amazing, social media will spread it quickly, like ‘Japa’ hopefuls heading to Canada.

Want to go viral? Focus on creating content that people can relate to that is high quality and engaging because these algorithms are not here to play with anybody.

Audience Engagement: Building Communities and Fanbases

Gone are the days when entertainers were almost like myths; creatures living in Banana Island who didn’t interact with their fans.

Now, thanks to Instagram Lives, Twitter Spaces and comment sections, fans have direct access to their dear faves. It’s a two-way street now for Nigerian entertainers to share their content and engage their audience in real-time. 

A classic example is Mr Macaroni. His skits are hilarious; however, it’s his ability to engage his fans through his political advocacy and engaging posts that has built a loyal fan base.

Likewise, Davido and Burna Boy use Twitter to engage their fans to make them feel included in their journey.

A helpful tip for aspiring entertainers – content is not the only factor for success; community plays an important role.

Make your audience feel seen by engaging them. Do this and watch them ride for you harder than a danfo driver on Third Mainland Bridge.

Monetization Opportunities in Nigeria: From Influence to Income

Social media is not just ‘vibes and inshallah’; it’s a very serious money-generating machine.

Brand partnerships, sponsored posts and sales from merchandise are some of the ways creators are cashing out. Maraji and Elozonam‘s brand partnership with Premiere Cool are quintessential examples. What began as creating content for fun turned into full-time careers with juicy brand deals.

You don’t need to wait for a Nollywood producer or record label to discover you. When a brand has a strong online presence, brands will start reaching out to them. The key is to have a diverse income stream such as ads, affiliate marketing, and digital products. Indeed, the possibilities are endless.

Remember, having followers alone doesn’t pay your bills; strategic monetisation is a game changer.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations: Navigating the Digital Landscape in Nigeria

Being ‘social media famous’ is not all glitz and glamour because with visibility also comes privacy invasion, cyberbullying and the stress of staying relevant.

We’ve watched in horror for the most part as influencers broke down in public because of intense scrutiny. If you want to step into the limelight, protect your mental health by taking breaks, setting boundaries and saying no to trolls renting free mental real estate.

Finally, remember that just like an elephant, the internet never forgets. One happy-go-lucky tweet from 2012, when you were still ‘a nobody’, can resurface and drag you faster than Lagos traffic. Stay present, stay real, and most importantly, preserve your mental health.

The Future of Nigerian Entertainment: Embracing Change and Innovation

What’s coming next, I wonder? Virtual concerts in the metaverse? It’s hard to say; however, one thing is sure: social media will keep evolving. Only those who keep up with the trends will call the shots.

For aspiring creators, the best advice is to adapt when needed, be creative, and stay true to yourself. Social media likes and rewards original ideas, so instead of copying trends, set the trend.

Whether you are a singer, comedian or dancer, there’s an audience waiting out there that will connect and engage with your content. Show up, remain consistent and turn the internet into your worldwide stage.

If you ever feel overwhelmed by digital trends, keep in mind that even Baba Suwe didn’t have Instagram, but he was still able to make us laugh.

In this digital age, you have at your disposal the power of social media, so wield it well, and who knows? You might be Nigeria’s and indeed the world’s next big superstar.

Now, go forth and conquer! Or at the very least, go post that content you’ve been over-perfecting. The algorithm is waiting for you and watching. 😉

Read More:

• TechCabal (https://techcabal.com)
• Nairametrics (https://nairametrics.com)
• Pulse Nigeria (https://www.pulse.ng)

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