Nigerian music superstar Wizkid is being celebrated by fans as Africa’s best-selling artist, reportedly surpassing Algerian singer Cheb Khaled’s record of 81 million units sold. In addition, Wizkid became the first African artist to reach 20 billion global on-demand audio streams in May 2025, further cementing his position as a leading figure in Afrobeats.
While social media and fan posts have been the primary sources of these claims, official verification from major tracking agencies remains pending. Current tallies indicate Wizkid has sold around 75 million certified units, and he has amassed between 150 and 170 awards over his career.
Fans and fellow artists have flooded social media with congratulations, celebrating Wizkid’s talent, work ethic, and collaborative style. Nigerian musician Duncan Mighty praised him for his warmth and professionalism, while countless users shared videos of themselves dancing to his hits.
Wizkid’s global success has been driven by hits like Essence, collaborations with international stars, and his continued influence on the Afrobeats scene. His growing catalogue of awards and streams showcases the worldwide reach of African music and the global recognition of Afrobeats as a genre.
Industry observers note that while exact sales numbers are still unverified, Wizkid’s achievements reflect a remarkable trajectory for an African artist in the international music market.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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