Spotify’s entry into Nigeria has driven artiste success and streaming revenue

Key takeaways

  • Spotify’s expansion into Nigeria in 2021 opened the market to global streaming, contributing to the rapid rise of Nigerian artistes on the platform.
  • Nigerian artistes saw significant revenue growth, earning over ₦11 billion in 2022 and exceeding ₦25 billion in streaming royalties by 2023.
  • Rema’s "Calm Down" became the first African song to surpass one billion streams, with the milestone first reached in 2023.
  • Spotify’s influence on Afrobeats has been reinforced through curated campaigns like "Afrobeats: Journey of a Billion Streams" and multiple industry events.
  • Nigerian music continues to dominate local streaming, with Asake ranked as the country’s most-streamed artist on Spotify in 2024.
  • Spotify has increased its investment in Nigeria’s creative industry by hosting major events, such as the annual Wrapped Party and the two-day Afrobeats Celebration Event in 2023.
  • Spotify’s partnership with United Masters in 2025 signals continued support for emerging Nigerian artistes, strengthening global opportunities for independent talent.

Since launching in Nigeria, Spotify has reshaped the country’s music industry by driving artiste success, increasing streaming revenue, and amplifying global visibility. Rema’s "Calm Down" made history as the first African track to cross one billion streams, while Nigerian artistes collectively earned over ₦25 billion in royalties on the platform in 2023. Initiatives like EQUAL Africa and a partnership with United Masters have further empowered emerging artists.

Beyond streaming, Spotify has strengthened its local presence through curated campaigns and industry events, including the annual Wrapped Party and a two-day Afrobeats celebration in 2023. The 2024 subscription price increase marks a shift in Spotify’s business approach, balancing artiste earnings with long-term sustainability in Nigeria’s growing streaming market.

Source:

Spotify, Media reports

Period:

2021-2025
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