FULL LIST: Five Popular Nigerian Artistes Who Relocated Abroad

The relocation of Nigerian entertainers to other countries has continued to attract public attention, with some moving abroad to pursue education, explore career opportunities or begin new chapters in their personal lives.

The latest is veteran rapper Olusegun Osaniyi, popularly known as Lord of Ajasa, who has become a United States citizen.

The pioneer of mainstream Yoruba rap shared photographs and videos of himself celebrating the milestone on his Instagram page, @lordofajasa, on Wednesday.
In one of the clips, the rapper held his American citizenship certificate, while another photograph showed him posing with his wife alongside the United States flag.

The development attracted congratulatory messages from fellow entertainers and fans. Music producer and Coded Tunes founder, Olumide Ogunade, popularly known as ID Cabasa, wrote, “Congratulations Lord Oshi.”
Lord of Ajasa replied, “Thanks Cabasa.”

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Singer Abolore Akande, popularly known as 9ice, also congratulated him, writing, “Congrats apase.”

The rapper responded, “Thanks Baalè.”

Lord of Ajasa is known for his contribution to indigenous Nigerian hip-hop, particularly Yoruba-language rap. He rose to prominence with songs such as “Ma Yi Lo” and collaborated with artistes including 9ice, Olamide and the late Dagrin.

Beyond Lord of Ajasa, several other Nigerian entertainers have relocated overseas for different reasons, including career development, education, family and religious commitments.

Here are some notable Nigerian artistes who have relocated abroad.

1. Ayra Starr

Nigerian singer Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, announced in November 2025 that she had moved to New York City in the United States.

The Mavin Records artiste said living in the city had long been an ambition. She also explained that performing there made her feel at home, partly because of its large Nigerian community, which reminded her of Lagos.

Ayra Starr maintained that relocating abroad would not make her abandon her Nigerian identity or cultural roots.

She gained international recognition with her 2022 hit song “Rush” and has continued to release music, including “Heaven Baby,” “Treat U Right” and “Tornado.”

2. Lord of Ajasa

Olusegun Osaniyi, popularly known as Lord of Ajasa, is a veteran rapper recognised for helping to popularise Yoruba-language rap in Nigeria.

He gained prominence in the early 2000s with songs such as “Ma Yi Lo” and collaborated with notable artistes, including 9ice, Olamide and the late Dagrin.