In the Nigerian entertainment industry where males are far dominated, there are numerous female singers who also gaining the spotlight.
As of 2024, the Nigerian music industry continues to thrive, with many female artists achieving significant financial success and global recognition.
These women have been ruling the global music world with the impeccable talents, hard work and dedication to their craft. They have not only achieved remarkable success in their careers but have also used their influence to inspire and pave the way for future generations.
Here is a detailed look at the top 10 richest female musicians in Nigeria and their estimated net worths:
TIWA SAVAGE – $9 million
Tiwa Savage, famously regarded as the Queen of Afrobeats, stands as the richest female musician in Nigeria in 2024, boasting a net worth of $9 million.
Born in Ikeja, Lagos State, Tiwa moved to London at the age of 11. She pursued higher education at the University of Kent, earning a degree in Business Administration.
Tiwa’s music journey began in the UK, where she worked as a backup singer for luminaries like George Michael and Mary J. Blige. This early exposure to the global music scene provided a strong foundation for her future success.
In 2010, Tiwa Savage released her first hit song, “Kele Kele,” which made a significant impact in the male-dominated music industry. This debut marked the beginning of her ascent to stardom, showcasing her talent and setting the stage for her future achievements.
Tiwa Savage’s career has been marked by numerous hit singles. Her influence extends beyond music, as she has become a global ambassador for Afrobeats, inspiring countless artists and fans worldwide.
Beyond music, she has lucrative endorsement deals with companies like Pepsi, Forte Oil, and Maggi. Tiwa Savage’s international collaborations with artists like Beyoncé and Sam Smith have further solidified her global presence. The 44-year-old singer also delved into movie production, becoming one of the musicians who featured in films.
In February 2023, Tiwa Savage announced on Instagram that she co-produced the film “Water and Garri” with Meji Alabi, aired on Prime video in May 11.
Savage also wrote and performed the film’s original soundtrack and served as an executive producer alongside Vannessa Amadi-Ogbonna. The film tells the story of Aisha, a U.S.-based fashion designer who returns to her homeland to confront her past guilt.
On May 7, 2023, Savage performed at King Charles III’s Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle, wearing a custom Lanre da Silva gown that highlighted her Nigerian heritage. While her performance received praise, her presence at the event drew criticism on social media due to the UK’s colonial history in Nigeria.
Tiwa Savage bought a multimillion mansion worth N75 million in Lekki, the house is located at Heaven Homes, Richmond Estates Lekki Lagos state Nigeria. She has joined the league of celebrities living in this estate.
Her cars include, Rolls Royce Phantom, Bentley Bentayga and Mercedes Benz.
YEMI ALADE – $5 million
Yemi Alade, affectionately known as “Mama Africa,” is a renowned Nigerian singer who has become a household name not just in Nigeria, but throughout Africa. Her musical talent is remarkably diverse, spanning genres such as Afro-pop, R&B, Highlife, and Dancehall. She sings in English, Igbo, Pidgin, Yoruba, French, Swahili and Portuguese.
Yemi Alade’s journey to stardom began with her impressive victory in the 2009 Peak Talent Show singing contest. Since then, she has released a series of chart-topping hits such as “Johnny,” “Na Gode,” and “Ferrari,” each contributing significantly to her global recognition.
In 2014, Yemi Alade made history with the release of “Johnny,” becoming the first African female Afropop artist to garner over 89 million views on YouTube. The song remains the most-watched African female YouTube music video of all time. Additionally, Yemi Alade is the most-awarded female artist in Nigeria, further solidifying her influential presence in the music industry.
Yemi Alade boasts an impressive net worth of $5 million, a result of her successful music career, strategic endorsements, and ventures into fashion entrepreneurship, including jewelry sales and partnerships with top brands.
Charging $75,000 per show, she maintains a strong and enviable presence in the music industry, solidifying her status as one of the wealthiest female artists in Nigeria.
Yemi Alade has been mentioned by many artists like Tems, Ayra Starr, Guchi, Ugoccie and Busiswa as an inspiration, mentor and role model.
Her cars collections include; Lexus GX 460, Lamborghini Hurricane, Mercedes Benz G Wagon, Toyota Prado SUV and Toyota Tundra Truck.
ASA – $5 million
Bukola Elemide, widely known as Aṣa, is a Nigerian-French singer celebrated for her eclectic music style and captivating stage performances.
Although born in Paris, she moved to Nigeria with her family at the age of two and was raised in Lagos. Eighteen years later, Aṣa returned to Paris and enrolled in the IMFP School of Jazz Music. Before her move to Paris, she had already made a mark with her debut hit single, “Eye Adaba” (meaning “dove”).
Her teachers quickly recognized her immense talent and advised her to focus on her recordings, considering further schooling unnecessary. She followed their advice and released her self-titled album “Aṣa” in 2007, which went on to achieve platinum status.
Following this success, Aṣa toured the world, enchanting audiences with her voice and infectious melodies. Her second album, “Beautiful Imperfection,” released in 2011, also achieved platinum status.
Despite her considerable earnings and widespread fame, Aṣa maintains a simple and modest lifestyle. She remains unmarried, though she hasn’t avoided love entirely. In a 2022 interview with Korty Eo, she remarked, “You won’t be disappointed if you don’t invest in people.”
She is valued at $5 million.
Omawumi – $3 million
Omawumi Megbele, known simply as Omawumi, stands as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished and prosperous female artists. As of 2014, she was the highest-paid female artist in Nigeria, earning N5 million per show.
In May 2007, her talent took her to the prestigious stage of West African Idols, where she emerged as the first runner-up. This marked the turning point in her career, leading her to perform alongside some of the industry’s biggest names like P-Square, 2face Idibia, D’Banj, and others.
With a powerful voice and a strong presence in the Nigerian music scene, Omawumi has released several albums and singles that have performed well commercially.
She is a brand ambassador for Globacom, Konga.com, and Malta Guinness. She’s also part of the campaign called “Rise with the Energy of Africa
Omawumi is also a skilled actress, with roles in both Nigerian and international movies. She featured in House of Gold, Palava, Oloture and lots more. With her achievements, she is estimated to be $3 million.
CHIDINMA EKILE- $2.8 million
Chidinma Ekile is unquestionably one of the richest female musicians in Nigeria with her years in music industry. Chidinma gained fame after winning Project Fame West Africa in 2010, earning her a production deal, a 2011 Toyota RAV4, and N2.5 million.
She has since released several successful singles and collaborated with top artists. She is also known for her gospel music contributions.
This marked the start of a musical journey that led her to release hits such as “Jankoliko” and “Kedike.” Notably, her single “Emi Ni Baller” made history by reaching the number one spot on the MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 chart, cementing her status as a leading female artist in Nigeria.
Having built a career spanning over a decade, Chidinma has amassed an impressive net worth of $2.8 million, positioning her as the 5th wealthiest female musician in Nigeria in 2024. Her wealth doesn’t solely stem from music; she has also ventured into acting and secured lucrative brand endorsements.
In 2021, Chidinma transitioned to gospel music and dedicated herself to Christian ministry. Her gospel single, “Jehovah Overdo,” released in May 2021, received acclaim, paving the way for her debut gospel EP, “New Season,” which was released in August of the same year.
SEYI SHAY – $2.8 million
Seyi Shay’s musical journey commenced early, deeply influenced by the vibrant musical environment within her family. Her upbringing was surrounded by music; her mother served as a chorister, her sister composed songs for the BBC, and her brother was a prominent DJ.
Growing up in a household brimming with musical talent, Seyi Shay embraced her passion from a young age. She began performing at the age of six and embarked on a tour with the London Community Gospel Choir, traveling to 13 cities across Japan.
As her career blossomed, Seyi Shay made the decision to enter Nigeria’s dynamic music scene, guided by introductions from Sound Sultan and Cecil Hammond. Joining Flytime Music marked the beginning of her solo career. Seyi Shay’s versatile talent enabled her to collaborate with renowned artists such as Justin Timberlake, Darey, and Michelle Williams.
The release of Seyi Shay’s debut studio album, “Seyi or Shay,” in November 2015 marked a significant milestone in her career. Collaborating with notable Nigerian producers, the album featured standout singles such as “Loving Your Way” and “No Le Le,” which served as pivotal moments in her emergence onto the Nigerian music scene. Additionally, tracks like “Irawo,” penned by Seyi Shay herself, aimed to inspire her contemporaries.
With a net worth of $2.1 million, she’s secured her financial standing through music, endorsements, and acting.
SIMI – $2 million
Boasting an impressive net worth of $2 million, Simi secures the 7th position among Nigeria’s wealthiest female musicians in 2024.
In contrast to Chidinma, Simi’s musical journey initially began in gospel music before transitioning into secular music. Her debut studio album, “Ogaju,” released in 2008, featured gospel songs.
Simi’s rise to prominence accelerated in 2014 with the release of “Tiff,” a song that garnered her a nomination for Best Alternative Song at The Headies 2015. This catapulted her into the spotlight and paved the way for a record deal with X3M Music.
Simi’s career continued to ascend with subsequent hits like “Love Don’t Care” and collaborations with artists like Falz. Her second studio album, “Simisola,” released in 2017, made a significant mark, even debuting at number 5 on the Billboard World Albums chart.
Notably, in 2019, Simi took a significant step in her career by establishing her own record label, Studio Brat, after parting ways with X3M Music. This move reflected her entrepreneurial spirit and independence in the music industry.
WAJE – $1.7 million
Waje, whose real name is Aituaje Aina Vivian Ebele Iruobe, is a Nigerian singer renowned for her powerful vocals, with a vocal range spanning three octaves. She is also famous for being one of the judges at The Voice Nigeria talent show.
Waje’s path to success was defined by her resilience and unwavering determination. As the firstborn and eldest daughter in her family, she encountered the challenge of her parents’ separation at a tender age. Despite this adversity, her exceptional talent caught the attention of the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa, who was moved by her soulful gospel performances.
While officially embarking on her music career in 2007, Waje’s breakthrough moment came in 2008 when she collaborated with P-Square on the chart-topping track “Do Me.” This song resonated widely across Africa and parts of Europe, propelling her into the spotlight.
With her melodious voice, Waje featured with otherNigerian celebrities to recreate Michael Jackson’s iconic song ‘We are the world’ in celebration of children’s day.
This collaboration marked the beginning of a series of successful projects that would solidify her position in the music industry. From her collaboration with M.I. on “One Naira” to the release of her debut studio album, “Words Aren’t Just Enough,” in 2013, Waje’s star continued to ascend.
As of the latest available information, Waje’s net worth stands at $1.7 million. This wealth has been accrued through her music career, lucrative endorsements, and ventures in acting.
TEMS – $1 million
Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, exemplifies the remarkable talent emerging from Nigeria’s dynamic music scene.
When Tems was just an infant, her family relocated from Lagos to the UK, but they returned to Nigeria when she was five years old due to her parents’ separation. Similar to many other artists on this list, Tems’ musical journey commenced at an early age.
As she matured, her love for music intensified, prompting her to leave her job and fully immerse herself in the world of music. She dedicated herself to honing her craft, teaching herself production techniques through online platforms like YouTube. Her diligence paid off when she successfully produced her debut song, “Mr. Rebel.”
She rose to prominence after being featured on Wizkid’s 2020 single “Essence”, which peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart following the release of the remix version with Justin Bieber. The song earned her a Grammy Award nomination. That same year, she was featured on the song “Fountains” by Canadian rapper Drake. The track debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the first African artist to achieve this feat.
Tems experienced her breakthrough with the release of “Try Me” in 2019, propelling her into the spotlight. Subsequently, she collaborated with renowned figures in the music industry, such as Khalid, Disclosure, and Davido.
The 29-year-old singer recently featured in Jimmy Fallon Tonight show where she performed her latest song ‘Love me Jeje’.
With an estimated net worth of $1 million, Tems’ wealth primarily stems from her music career and lucrative endorsements. She commands an appearance fee of $50,000 per show, a testament to her immense popularity.
AYRA STARR – $1 million
Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, is a ‘Gen Z’ singer, making waves on the music industry with her melodious voice.
Ayra, an Arabic name signifying deep respect, awareness, and open-mindedness, perfectly encapsulates the essence of Ayra Starr, affectionately known as the ‘Celestial Being,’ in her artistic expression.
At the tender age of 17, this Nigerian singer, model, and fashion entrepreneur, born in Benin, gained widespread recognition when her original song ‘Damage’ went viral on Instagram, leading to her signing with Mavin Records in 2019.
Without hesitation, Ayra swiftly displayed her remarkable talent. On January 22, 2021, she released her debut smash hit ‘Away,’ which promptly amassed millions of streams.
In that same remarkable year, she unveiled ‘Bloody Samaritan,’ a track that catapulted her to the pinnacle of success as the first solo female artist to clinch the number-one spot on the Top 50 chart.
But her journey didn’t halt there. In 2022, she dropped another single, ‘Rush,’ which thrust her onto the international stage, securing her status as the youngest African Female Artist to surpass 100 million views on a single YouTube video within just 5 months. Additionally, she etched her name in history as the first Nigerian female artist to chart a solo song on the UK Singles Chart.
Predictably, these achievements have substantially bolstered her financial standing. Ayra Starr boasts an impressive net worth of $1 million, positioning her as the youngest artist on this roster of Nigeria’s wealthiest female musicians. Her revenue streams stem from her music, lucrative endorsements, and ventures in modeling.
Given her widespread acclaim and illustrious career trajectory, Ayra Starr commands an appearance fee of $50,000 per show, exclusive of flight expenses, accommodation, and other incidentals.
She is set to release her upcoming album ‘Year I turned 21’ on May 31st.