Nigerians have dominated the recently released list of Africa’s Most Talked About People of 2024, curated by Top Charts Africa. Out of the 30 spots on the list, 18 were claimed by Nigerians, showcasing their significant influence across politics, entertainment, and global discourse.
The list, published on the official website of the chart body, highlights the individuals who have captured the attention of Africa and the world throughout the year.
Leading the pack is Nigerian singer Wizkid, who secured the number one position. Wizkid’s presence on the list comes as no surprise, given his constant appearance on trend tables throughout 2024.
His year was marked by renewed public feuds with fellow Nigerian artist Davido and the release of his latest album, Morayo, which has been met with both critical acclaim and widespread discussion. Wizkid’s ability to stay relevant in the headlines solidifies his reputation as a key figure in African entertainment.
The second spot on the list went to Kenya’s President William Ruto. The Kenyan leader made global headlines earlier in the year due to the intense protests in June over controversial tax legislation. The demonstrations, which culminated in the storming of the Kenyan Parliament, forced Ruto to address the nation’s concerns.
On June 28, he rejected the contentious tax bill and instead signed the “Appropriations Bill 2024” into law to tackle the country’s budget shortfall. This decisive action earned him a spot on the list as one of the continent’s most talked-about political figures.
Coming in at number three is Nigerian afrobeats superstar Davido, whose 2024 was nothing short of eventful. His much-publicized wedding to his longtime partner Chioma, affectionately dubbed “Chivido 2024,” became one of the year’s most talked-about events.
The singer’s ability to maintain his relevance in the music industry while simultaneously capturing public interest with his personal life secured his place among Africa’s most-discussed personalities.
Other notable Nigerians on the list include President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been at the center of numerous national and international political discussions, and Aliko Dangote, the president of Dangote Group, known for his impact on Africa’s business landscape. Controversial Nigerian crossdresser Bobrisky also made the top 10, continuing to spark debates across social media platforms.
Nigerian politician Peter Obi, who has remained a prominent figure in political conversations, and South African singer Tyla rounded out the top-tier positions alongside South African music star Liema Pantsi and former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The list also featured other intriguing personalities, such as Baltasar Engonga, the former Equatoguinean public official who became an internet sensation after private videos surfaced online, adding to the mix of high-profile figures who shaped conversations across Africa in 2024.
The diversity of individuals on this list highlights the varied interests and discussions that dominated African spaces this year, from politics and music to business and controversy.
Full list:
1. Wizkid
2. President William Ruto
3. Davido
4. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
5. Aliko Dangote
6. Raila Odinga
7. Bobrisky
8. Tyla
9. Peter Obi
10. Liema Pantsi
11. Rema
12. Rigathi Gachagua
13. Khosi Twala
14. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta
15. Ademola Lookman
16. Asake
17. Very Dark Man
18. Drill
19. Nyesom Wike
20. President Cyril Ramaphosa
21. Reno Omokri
22. Rose Owusu Konadu
23. Victor Osimhen
24. Baltasar Engonga
25. Sharon Ooja
26. Toyin Abraham
27. Babu Owino Paul
28. Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina
29. Danny Walter
30. Pastor Enoch Adeboye
