Nigerian rap legend Olamide Adedeji, popularly known as Baddo, made history on November 23, 2025, when he sold out the 12,500-capacity OVO Arena Wembley in London. This marked his first solo UK show in nearly ten years and positioned him as the first African rapper to headline the iconic venue. Fans filled every corner of the arena, singing along to hits that span more than a decade, and celebrating a career that has helped define Nigerian street music and Afrobeats on the global stage.
Olamide’s journey began in 2010 with the release of his breakout single “Eni Duro”, which instantly placed him at the forefront of the Nigerian music scene. By 2016, he had already sold out the 5,039-capacity Eventim Apollo, proving his appeal extended beyond Nigeria’s borders. Over the years, he has released nine albums, signed and mentored global stars such as Fireboy DML and Asake, and grown YBNL Nation into one of Africa’s most influential record labels.
Fans attending the OVO Arena show witnessed more than just a concert—they witnessed a decade-long journey of resilience, influence, and creativity that has consistently pushed Nigerian music onto the world stage.
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A Night of Unforgettable Performances
The concert opened with Olamide performing “Lagos Boys”, immediately igniting the crowd’s excitement. From the very first note, the arena was alive, with fans clapping, dancing, and singing along. Throughout the night, Olamide’s mastery of live performance was evident as he seamlessly moved between his solo hits and collaborative tracks with special guests.
Artists such as Asake, Seyi Vibez, Bella Shmurda, Lil Kesh, Darkoo, Pheelz, Lojay, Joeboy, and Ashidapo joined him on stage, delivering high-energy performances that kept the momentum flowing. Highlights included the powerful collaboration “99” with Asake and Seyi Vibez, Bella Shmurda’s rendition of “Triumphant”, and Asake’s performance of “Amapiano”. The interplay between Olamide and his former and current YBNL signees highlighted his influence as a mentor, showcasing how his label continues to shape Nigeria’s music industry.
The night wasn’t only about Afrobeats hits. Olamide invited fans to engage fully with the show, creating an immersive experience that combined music, dance, and celebration. His presence on stage, along with the synchronized visuals and lighting, turned the arena into a vibrant festival of sound and culture.
Celebrating Nigerian Music and Heritage
Olamide’s concert also paid homage to Nigeria’s rich musical history. He delivered a heartwarming tribute to Fuji music, performing renditions of Pasuma’s “Importer and Exporter”, Wasiu K1 Ayinde’s “Omo Naija”, and Obesere’s “Osha Mo Condition Ti Mo Wa”. These moments reminded fans of the cultural roots that influence contemporary Afrobeats and highlighted the ongoing relevance of Fuji in modern music.
In a grand and theatrical entrance, Olamide arrived in a vintage Jaguar XK150, dressed in a sharp suit that exuded confidence and style. This “big-boy” entrance set the tone for the night, signaling that the evening was both a celebration of Lagos energy and London grandeur. Throughout the two-hour set, Olamide maintained high energy, engaging fans with his signature blend of lyrical prowess and charismatic stage presence.
By the end of the night, Olamide received a sold-out plaque from OVO Arena, a testament not only to his commercial success but also to the global resonance of his music. The event highlighted his enduring relevance, leadership in Nigerian music, and ability to bridge the gap between African street culture and the international stage.
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Olamide’s sold-out OVO Arena performance is more than a concert—it is a milestone for African music, proof of Afrobeats’ worldwide influence, and a celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy. As the global spotlight on Nigerian music continues to grow, artists like Olamide demonstrate the power, ambition, and talent emerging from Africa.
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