Nigerian rapper and singer Zlatan Ibile has shared how an academic setback changed the course of his life.
Speaking on Apple Music 1 with South African host Nandi Madida, the artist said his poor performance in mathematics and accounting stopped him from gaining university admission in 2011.
Zlatan, whose real name is Omoniyi Temidayo, said the experience was disappointing at the time but became the turning point of his journey. “I didn’t even think I’d end up as a musician. I was just a church drummer then,” he said.
He added that his first attempt at recording was far from perfect, but the encouragement from his family gave him confidence to keep going.
Breakthrough came through a campus rap contest
The “Zanku” crooner recalled that his career officially began after winning a rap competition while in university. According to him, the victory proved that talent could open doors that academic success couldn’t.
“I joined the contest without expecting anything serious,” he said. “When they announced my name as the winner, and I realised I was taking home a car, everything changed.”
That moment, he explained, convinced him to take music seriously and begin developing his craft.
New album carries message of resilience
Reflecting on his growth, Zlatan said his latest body of work, “Symbol of Hope,” represents his message to young people facing challenges.
He noted that his songs often inspire listeners not to give up, regardless of their background.
“I get messages from people saying my music helps them stay motivated,” he said. “That’s why I called the album Symbol of Hope, to remind them that no condition is permanent.”
The artist also spoke about how his viral dance step, Zanku, helped define his identity in the global Afrobeats scene.