Nigerian rapper Zlatan Ibile has shared how fatherhood reshaped his priorities, admitting that becoming a parent at 25 came with unexpected responsibilities and challenges.
Speaking on the “Is This A Safe Space?” podcast, the Zanku hitmaker revealed that the birth of his son five years ago forced him to re-evaluate his lifestyle and finances.
“The birth of my son changed me. It made me realise that life was getting more serious,” he said. “I wasn’t prepared. I started paying rent in London at 25 and was scared I might not be able to keep up with the bills because people said I might not stay relevant in the music industry for more than three years.”
Zlatan said fatherhood made him more disciplined with money, prompting him to cut down on unnecessary spending and focus on saving.
“I became more serious with managing my finances, limited spending and started saving for diapers,” he added.
The rapper also admitted that he regretted some of his past choices and habits, explaining that his son’s birth inspired him to become more intentional about his career and personal life.
Since rising to fame with his breakout hit Zanku (Leg Work), Zlatan has continued to evolve both as an artist and a person, something he credits largely to the lessons of fatherhood.
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