Nigerian rapper and singer Zlatan Ibile has opened up about how a setback in his education redirected his life toward music.
In an interview with Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1, Zlatan revealed that he struggled with mathematics and accounting, which prevented him from gaining admission into a university in 2011. According to him, the situation was disheartening at the time, but it eventually led him to discover his true path.
He explained that music was not originally part of his plans. “I never imagined becoming a musician. I was just playing drums in church,” Zlatan, whose real name is Omoniyi Temidayo, shared.
His first studio recording experience, he noted, was not impressive. However, the support he received from family members encouraged him to continue improving and believing in his gift.
Zlatan said his music journey took a major turn when he won a rap competition while in school. The win came with a car prize, which he described as the moment that changed everything.
“I entered the competition without expecting anything. But when they called my name as the winner and I got the car, it felt like life was showing me a new direction,” he recounted.
He said that was when he decided to fully commit to developing his musical talent.
Speaking on his latest project “Symbol of Hope,” the rapper said the album is dedicated to young people going through life challenges. He mentioned that many of his songs are created to uplift and motivate listeners.
“I get messages from people saying my music keeps them encouraged. That’s why I named the album Symbol of Hope to remind them that no situation lasts forever,” he said.
Zlatan also reflected on how his popular dance style, Zanku, helped shape his identity and impact within the Afrobeats movement globally.