- TheRadar celebrates 10 legendary stand-up comedians in Nigeria, including Gbenga Adeboye, Ali Baba, Julius Agwu, Basketmouth, and 6 others
- These comedians have made significant contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry, paving the way for other talented comedians to emerge
- The legacies of these comedians continue to inspire new generations of comedians with lasting impact
What is life without laughter? Or what points are there when we don't turn pressing difficulties into a form of relief, taking life as it is and having some hahaha moments?
Laughter can turn pressing difficulties into moments of relief, allowing us to take life as it is and find joy in its simplicity. Over the years, many comedians have emerged to make us laugh, and the Nigerian entertainment industry is no exception.
From John Chukwu and Gbenga Adeboye to Ali Baba, Basketmouth, Bovi, AY Makun, Okey Bakasi, I Go Save, and many others, these legendary comedians have brought laughter to countless faces through their stand-up comedies.
From Gbenga Adeboye's CD releases to shows like 'Night of a Thousand Laughs', ‘Crack Ya Ribs’, and contemporary comedy shows, they have created a sense of nostalgia and amusement that continues to captivate audiences.
TheRadar has curated a list of 10 legendary stand-up comedians.
10 legendary Nigerian stand-up comedians
1. Gbenga Adeboye
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Gbenga Adeboye, also known as Funwontan and Jengbetiele, was Nigeria's first skit maker and a pioneering stand-up comedian. Born in Osun State in 1959, he began his career as a radio broadcaster and quickly gained popularity across southwest Nigeria.
Known for his unique blend of humour and ability to connect with people of different faiths, Gbenga earned the nickname "Alhaji-Pastor-Oluwo." He was a trailblazer in Nigerian comedy, bringing innovation and creativity to the industry.
He was the comedian who paved the way for others, and in an interview with P.M News, he confirmed that he had no competition. “My greatest worry is that I have no competitor. I went to America with 1,006 jokes and came back with 987 untouched despite the fact I was there for 11 months with a very busy schedule." - Gbenga Adeboye, July 1996.
Sadly, Gbenga passed away on April 30, 2003, after a brief illness, but his legacy lives on as a legendary figure in Nigerian comedy.
Although most of the younger generation do not know him, a recent uproar on the internet, comparing him to Alibaba, once again brought back the memory of Abefe.
21 years after his demise, social media users still take to social media on several occasions to share their thoughts and memories of Gbenga Adeboye, whether during interviews, on his posthumous birthday, or on remembrance days.
2. Ali Baba
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Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, popularly known as Ali Baba, is a Nigerian stand-up comedian, master of ceremonies, and actor who has made a lasting impact on the comedy industry. After completing his academic degree in 1990, he returned to Lagos to hone his comedy skills, which he discovered during his university days. Interestingly, he initially planned to study Law but decided that making people laugh could bring him more success than defending them.
He began his career performing at corporate events and appearing on TV and radio shows alongside notable personalities like Patrick Doyle, Charly Boy, and Danladi Bako.
In 2014, Ali Baba founded the annual 1 January concert, where comedians review the previous year's events, and a first-class graduate receives an award. He also launched Spontaneity, a quarterly event for budding comedians, in 2015. Notably, Woli Arole emerged as a finalist in the 2016 edition.
Ali Baba is known for his philosophy that the comedy business is big enough for everyone. He actively supports, mentors, and presents several comedians, promoting professionalism and maintaining high standards.
Regarded as the "father of stand-up comedy," Ali Baba has garnered widespread praise from Nigerians.
3. Julius Agwu
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Julius Agwu is a Nigerian entertainment powerhouse - excelling as a stand-up comedian, actor, singer, and master of ceremonies. As the MD/CEO of Reellaif Limited, a music and movie production company, Julius has solidified his position as a major player in the industry.
Julius' comedic journey began in childhood. Growing up, he would often arrive late to school, earning punishment from his teacher. However, these punishments unexpectedly became the catalyst for his comedic talents. Forced to dance in front of his classmates, Julius honed his skills, drawing inspiration from the popular character Ajasco.
Before transitioning to television, Julius cut his teeth in the entertainment industry through stage performances in Port Harcourt. His acting credits include notable roles in TV series and movies like Badamasi (2021), Wives on Strike (2017), and Dog Napped. He became the first Comedian to release a comedy album in Nigeria, and since then, many other Comedians have tried their hand and have been successful.
As a seasoned comedian, Julius has produced several comedy shows, including Crack Ya Ribs, Laff 4 Christ's Sake, and Festival of Love. His versatility, creativity, and dedication to his craft have cemented his status as one of Nigeria's most beloved comedy legends.
4. Basketmouth
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Bright Akpocha, also known as Basketmouth, is a renowned Nigerian comedian and actor. He began his career in comedy in 1995 and gained popularity after anchoring a monthly show at The Den in Ikeja in 2000.
Basketmouth's big break came when Alibaba introduced him to Opa Williams, leading to his feature in the legendary comedy show Night of a Thousand Laughs. This exposure catapulted him to national fame.
He has organised several successful stand-up comedy concerts, including Basketmouth Uncensored, and has performed alongside international music stars. He has also worked with acclaimed comedians like Trevor Noah and has held sold-out events at prominent venues worldwide.
In addition to his comedy career, Basketmouth has appeared on TV shows, including Comedy Central Presents and MTV Base's Big Friday Show. He is also a writer, producer, and actor on the daily sitcom My Flatmates.
As a brand ambassador for several prominent brands, Basketmouth is also passionate about giving back through his foundation, which aims to bring holiday cheer to hospital patients.
5. Bovi Ugboma
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Bovi Ugboma, popularly known as Bovi, is a Nigerian stand-up comedy legend. Over the course of his career spanning over two decades, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of comedy, earning him a reputation as one of Nigeria's most talented entertainers.
Bovi's one-man special, ‘Man on Fire,’ was a massive success, touring several cities worldwide. He also made a name for himself as a talented actor, starring in movies like ‘It's Her Day’ and ‘4-1-Love.’
As a respected figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, Bovi has worked alongside other notable comedians, including Basketmouth and Julius Agwu. His latest comedy special, "Bovi- Naughty By Nature," sold out two days before the show, solidifying his position as a comedy legend.
Bovi's dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with audiences has earned him a loyal following. He is undoubtedly one of Nigeria's most beloved stand-up comedians, and his contributions to the industry have cemented his status as a legend in Nigerian comedy.
6. AY Makun
Ayodeji Richard Makun popularly known as AY Makun is a well-celebrated Nigerian comedian, actor, writer, and producer who has become a household name in the entertainment industry, known for his hilarious jokes, witty one-liners, and rib-cracking comedy shows, including the popular AY Live, which has become an annual Easter tradition.
AY has also produced several successful movies, including ‘30 Days in Atlanta’ and ‘A Trip to Jamaica,’ which have broken box office records and has received numerous awards and nominations for his work, cementing his status as one of Nigeria's most successful comedians.
7. Okey Bakassi
Okechukwu Anthony Onyegbule, also known as Okey Bakassi, is a Nigerian stand-up comedian and actor from Imo State. His passion for comedy began at university, where he joined Theatre Colleagues, participating in stage plays and stand-up comedy sketches. After his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), he began his career in the entertainment industry, landing his first TV role in 1993's 'Fortune' and going on to produce and appear in several films.
Okey Bakassi's career gained momentum in 2014, earning him his first award in the ‘Best Actor in a Leading Role (Igbo)’ category at the 2014 edition of the Best of Nollywood Awards. He has since become a household name, hosting shows like 'It's Okay with Okey' and 'The Other News', and making appearances in comedy television shows like 'My Flat mate'. Okey Bakassi's contributions to Nigerian comedy have solidified his position as one of the legends of comedy.
8. I Go Dye
Francis Agoda, also known as I Go Dye, is a Nigerian comedy legend, motivational speaker, and social advocate celebrated for his hilarious stand-up performances that often reminisce about his Warri upbringing, with a career spanning over two decades, numerous accolades, and notable appearances, including being featured in the 2000 edition of Night of A Thousand Laughs and being honoured as the most outstanding performer of the decade in the same show, solidifying his position as one of Nigeria's most beloved comedians.
9. Gordons
Gordons, born Godwin Komone, is a household name in Nigerian comedy, renowned for his side-splitting humour and electrifying stage presence. As the host of the wildly popular Comedy Clinic series, Gordons has been entertaining audiences across the nation, bringing laughter and joy to millions. His comedy style, which often hinges on hilarious storytelling and clever wit, has endeared him to fans of all ages.
A true legend of stand-up comedy in Nigeria, Gordons' impact on the industry cannot be overstated. With a career spanning several decades, he has inspired a generation of comedians and continues to be a major force in Nigerian entertainment.
10. I Go Save
Otaghware Otas Onodjayeke popularly known as Igosave, is a prominent Nigerian comedian and event organiser who hailed from Delta State. He gained significant recognition after his performance at the renowned "Nite of a 1000 Laughs" show where he shared the stage with notable comedy figures such as I Go Dye, Bovi, Basketmouth, and Ali Baba.
Since then, Igosave has established himself as a household name in the Nigerian comedy scene, celebrated for his distinct style and comedic talent.
In addition to his performances, he has successfully organised several events, including his annual ‘Igosave Unusual’ concert, which takes place in various cities across Nigeria.
These 10 legendary stand-up comedians and others have left an indelible mark on the Nigerian entertainment industry. Their contributions to comedy have not only brought joy and laughter to countless faces but have also paved the way for other talented comedians to emerge. The Nigerian entertainment industry is blessed with many more talented stand-up comedians, including Mr Macaroni, Klint Da Drunk, Akpororo, Kenny Black, Helen Paul, and numerous others, who continue to carry the torch of comedy excellence.
6 popular comedians with stellar appearances in Nollywood
Considering the comedy industry in Nigeria, several comedians beyond cracking ribs on stage have also featured in Nollywood movies to give Stella performances.
TheRadar spotlights 6 notable Nigerian comedians, who are also actors gaining fans not only on stage but in films. 6 popular comedians with stellar appearances in Nollywood