The vibrant creativity of Nigerian content creators dominated at the TikTok Top Creator Awards, where they secured an impressive four wins out of eight categories. The awards ceremony, now in its second year, took place on 9 February at Vodacom World in Johannesburg. This celebration of talent aimed to honour and applaud the creativity and rich diversity of content creators across Sub-Saharan Africa.
In December 2023, TikTok fans cast their votes for their favourite creators, with winners selected by public vote and a TikTok judging panel. From each category, one victor emerged. These four creators have made an unforgettable mark on the digital landscape, highlighting their innovation and skills, further emphasising Nigeria’s role as a digital pioneer and center of creativity.
The Gaming Creator of the Year award was claimed by @khalamanja, who is renowned for his gaming content. With 2.6 million likes and 20 millions, his blend of engaging gameplay, tutorials, and witty commentary has earned him a devoted following, where he continues to entertain and connect with fellow gamers. Reflecting on his win, he expressed: ‘I’m tremendously grateful to my followers for their continued support. This wouldn’t have been possible without them. Together, we have built a community where gaming is not just a hobby but a shared passion and source of joy.’
In the Lifestyle and Education Creator of the Year category, @iremide, reigned supreme as she was recognised for her visually appealing content. Her mix of lifestyle tips and DIY projects has landed her a loyal audience of 1.2 million followers. About her win, she said: ‘I live, breathe, and speak creativity, and being awarded the Lifestyle and Education Creator of the Year is a testament to the possibilities that creativity unlocks. It has been a rewarding journey, and I am excited to continue inspiring and empowering others through my content.’
@olaoflagos, a content creator who once worked as a cleaner before achieving stardom, was honoured with the Trailblazer (Emerging) of the Year award.
He specialises in crafting skits and content centred around a lavish lifestyle and luxury cars. Through his creativity and opulent content, he has earned a devoted following of 1.6 million on the platform. Commenting on his win, he said: ‘I am beyond excited to receive this award. Being recognised as a trailblazer is a humbling experience. I believe in pushing boundaries and breaking stereotypes.’
The Publisher of the Year award went to PulseNigeria247, a news outlet that utilises TikTok to provide timely and relevant information to its followers. Their dedication to keeping users in the know and connecting with their audience has made them a leader in the platform’s publishing space. Pulse Nigeria’s Director of Content, Demi Dawson said: ‘Thank You to TikTok for the award that we won and for giving us a space to be apart of the process. It is not easy to drive the TikTok page , constantly putting stuff up, entertaining and educating people, but the team has been very hands on and very proactive.
Bianca Sibiya, Head of Content Operations for TikTok in Sub-Saharan Africa, commends the region’s creators for their dedication to creating content that speaks to their followers. “As we conclude the Top Creator Awards, I am truly impressed by the achievements of Nigerian content creators. With an outstanding performance, securing four out of eight categories, Nigeria has demonstrated its talent and creativity on the global stage of TikTok. We look forward to witnessing their continued success and influence on our platform.”