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| Image:Instagram |
The U.S. state of Minnesota is celebrating Wizkid Day today, October 6, in honour of Nigerian music sensation Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid.
The annual event, which was first proclaimed in 2018 by then-Governor Mark Dayton, recognizes Wizkid’s immense contributions to music, culture, and global entertainment.
Governor Dayton’s official proclamation highlighted the artist’s groundbreaking achievements that placed Nigerian music on the global map.
Among these feats was Wizkid’s historic collaboration with Canadian rapper Drake on the chart-topping single “One Dance” in 2016, which made him the first Nigerian artist to feature on a No. 1 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
The declaration also acknowledged his record-breaking concert at London’s O2 Arena in May 2018, where Wizkid sold out the 20,000-capacity venue a first for a Nigerian artist.
That same year, he became the first African musician to walk the runway for global fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana, further cementing his influence beyond the music industry.
In addition, the singer was recognized for his collaboration with Nike on a charitable project to support education across Africa, beginning in Nigeria. Wizkid’s philanthropic efforts and cultural influence have inspired a new generation of African artists to dream globally while staying rooted in their heritage.
Since 2018, Wizkid Day has become an annual celebration in Minnesota, drawing fans, music lovers, and the African diaspora together to honor the singer’s enduring legacy.
Each year, events and parties are held across Minneapolis and other cities in the state, with fans playing his chart-topping hits and reflecting on his rise from Surulere, Lagos, to global superstardom.
At the inaugural celebration in 2018, thousands of fans gathered at Minneapolis’ Skyway Theatre to celebrate Wizkid’s achievements and contributions to music and culture. The event featured live performances, dance contests, and tributes, showcasing the cultural bridge Wizkid’s music has built between Africa and the world.
Wizkid, known for his unique Afrobeat sound and international collaborations, has continued to push boundaries in the global music scene.
With multiple international awards, including three Billboard Music Awards and a Grammy for his contribution to Brown Skin Girl with Beyoncé, his influence continues to grow stronger each year.
This year’s celebration comes as Wizkid remains one of the most streamed African artists globally, with hit albums such as Made in Lagos and More Love, Less Ego still enjoying massive airplay.
Fans across social media have taken to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to celebrate the star, sharing photos, music clips, and the hashtag #WizkidDay to mark the occasion.
As Minnesota once again honours the Nigerian superstar, the celebration stands as a powerful reminder of how African music has transcended borders. Wizkid’s journey from Lagos to the global stage continues to inspire millions, solidifying his place as one of Africa’s greatest musical exports and a true symbol of cultural excellence
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