By Fasuyi Tolulope Samuel
Gone are the days when Nigerian rap was strictly about hard-hitting bars, street tales, and lyrical warfare.
The industry has since evolved, with many rappers switching lanes to craft commercially viable, danceable tunes to stay relevant and make money.
However, a select few still manage to strike a balance between keeping it real and keeping it hot. These artists have not just maintained their lyrical prowess but have continued to drop chart-worthy projects that resonate with both hip-hop heads and mainstream listeners.
Here are the top 5 Nigerian rappers holding it down in 2025:
1. Olamide
The YBNL boss remains a towering figure in Nigerian hip-hop. With the release of his recent self titled album, “Olamide“, the YBNL boss proves that even after a decade in the game, he still has the sauce.
Blending Yoruba rap with contemporary beats, his versatility and storytelling continue to shine. The project features collaborations with Dr Dre, Wizkid, Asake, and many more further cementing his role as a veteran rapper.
2. Phyno
Representing the East, Phyno has kept his fans hooked with his latest project “Something to Live For Deluxe”, an extension of his 2021 album.
His ability to flow in Igbo and English effortlessly makes him a standout. Phyno’s recent singles like “Do I (Remix)” featuring Burna Boy showcase his relevance across different music circles while staying true to his hip-hop roots.
3. Falz
Known for his witty punchlines and socially conscious lyrics, Falz recently dropped “Before The Feast”, a teaser EP ahead of a full-length album.
The project touches on themes of identity, governance, and modern youth culture, delivered with his trademark humor and sharp delivery. Falz remains one of the most intelligent voices in Nigerian rap today.
4. Blaqbonez
The Chocolate City rapper continues to blur the lines between rapper and pop star. With his latest album “Emeka Must Shine”, Blaqbonez showcases his evolution with tracks that are both sonically diverse and lyrically charged.
His alter ego, Emeka the Stallion, remains one of the most entertaining personalities in the industry.
5. Odumodublvck
A breath of fresh air, Odumodublvck is redefining rap in Nigeria with his unique fusion of grime, drill, and street-hop. His latest hit “100 Million”, featuring Tiwa Savage, has been making waves, solidifying his position as the new school leader.
With a raw style and fearless delivery, he’s pushing boundaries and bringing street credibility back to the mainstream.
Conclusion
While trends may shift, these rappers continue to remind us that Nigerian hip-hop is far from dead. They’re not just surviving — they’re thriving, one bar at a time.
