Nigerian comedy Mostly Stand-up Comedy and skit making has seen tremendous growth in recent years.
I Go Save recent success is part of a larger trend where Nigerian comedians are breaking out beyond their local scene and performing for diverse international crowds. I Go Save, whose real name is Otaghware Otas Onodjayeke, recently completed a highly successful tour across 16 cities in North America, London, and Dublin.
I Go Save has taken up to social media to next growth level of Nigeria Comedian, envisioning a future where Nigerian comedians regularly perform at large international venues, aiming for audiences as large as 100,000 people. This aspiration is fueled by his ambition to not only make people laugh but also to promote Nigerian culture through comedy.
Nigerian Comedians Who Have Enjoyed the Global Stage
Several Nigerian comedians rolled words that sizzled laughter and jokes that filed the environment with tremendous laughter on international stages, helping to pave the way for acts like I Go Save.
- Basketmouth: One of Nigeria’s most successful comedians, has performed at sold-out venues across Europe and the United States. His annual “Basketmouth Uncensored” shows have taken him to cities like New York, London, and Johannesburg. His blends of African storytelling with Western comedic formats, makes his humor accessible and relatable to global audiences.
2. Bovi: Another leading figure in Nigerian comedy, having toured extensively in the UK, U.S., and Canada. His shows, including the widely acclaimed Bovi Man on Fire tour, have sold out major venues such as London’s O2 Arena and Toronto’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Bovi’s style is very unique, a blend of everyday Nigerian experiences with universally relatable themes, earned him a global following.
3. Ali Baba: The godfather of Nigerian comedy, has also been instrumental in taking Nigerian humor abroad. His performances, alongside younger comedians, have helped establish a clear path for international recognition, showcasing that Nigerian humor can appeal to audiences worldwide without losing its local flavor.
What It Takes to Go Global
For Nigerian comedians aiming to follow in the footsteps of I Go Save, Basketmouth, and Bovi, several factors are essential for reaching the global stage:
- Relatability and Cultural Relevance: Staying true to our roots and identity as Nigerians is paramount, as it is our unique touch that cannot be copied. As a comedian one must find ways to make their humor relatable to diverse audiences. Universal themes and occurrence as well as comparisons mostly in the aspect of politics, love, relationship and daily struggle across the global, something that can connect with global audiences.
- Expanding Networks: International tours require strong networks within the global comedy scene, including partnerships with international promoters, media outlets, and streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, which are expanding their stand-up comedy catalogs. Bovi and Basketmouth have both benefited from these connections, using platforms like Netflix to reach a wider audience.
- Social media and Digital Presence: Social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok have become invaluable for every Nigerian comedians. Viral clips and skits have introduced comedians work to larger audiences beyond Nigeria and Africa. Comedians like Kenny Blaq have utilized platforms like YouTube to share their music-comedy fusion with the world, garnering millions of views.
Advice To Upcoming Comedian
For upcoming Nigerian comedians, the future holds immense potential, provided they are willing to innovate and be creative, stay true to their cultural roots, and connect with diverse audiences across the world can be done from the comfort of their homes through social media.
With the rise of digital platforms and the increasing visibility of African culture globally, Nigerian comedians are well-positioned to become global icons, breaking cultural barriers and bringing laughter to millions worldwide.
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