Nigerian rapper Temidayo Omoniyi, better known as Zlatan Ibile, has opened up about the tough years he faced before finding fame in the music industry.
Speaking in an interview with popular streamer Shank Comics, the Zanku hitmaker recalled how he struggled financially while studying at the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Zlatan revealed that even after winning the Airtel One Mic Talent Show in 2014, his financial situation didn’t improve as expected. He said the car he received as the grand prize became his lifeline during his time in school.
“Back in school, when there was no money for food, I’d wait till night and use the car I won from the Airtel One Mic Talent show to run cab from Abeokuta to Shagamu for ₦350,” he recounted.
At just 19 years old, Zlatan was juggling academics, survival, and his dream of breaking into the Nigerian music scene.
His major breakthrough came three years later in 2017, when he featured Olamide on his hit single ‘My Body’. Zlatan has often described that collaboration as the turning point of his career, crediting Olamide for delivering what he called a “life-changing” verse.
Today, the Zanku Music boss stands as one of Nigeria’s most successful street-hop artists, but his story remains a reminder of humble beginnings, determination, and perseverance.
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