Skit-Making in Nigeria: The silent strength behind a digital revolution

Not long ago, Nigerians saw short funny videos on WhatsApp or Instagram as just a way to pass time.

These clips, usually filmed with shaky phone cameras and shared among friends, were meant to make people laugh.

But today, those same videos have grown into a booming industry that is putting food on the table for many young Nigerians.

Skit comedy’s humble beginning

In the beginning, most skit makers didn’t have big plans or large equipment.
With only a mobile phone, a few friends, and creative thinking, they began recording and posting short videos online.

What looked like fun and games has now turned into full careers. Comedians like Mr. Macaroni, Taaooma, Sabinus, Broda Shaggi, Funny Bros and Brain Jotter are now recognised across Nigeria, with millions of followers on their pages.

Their content connects easily with everyday Nigerians, making them very popular on social media.

Thanks to platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, their work now reaches thousands, sometimes millions, within hours.

The audience was ready, the tools were available, and comedy skits found their space.

Turning fun into fortune

Today, skit-making is no longer just a hobby. It’s serious business.

These entertainers now make money through several means:

Corporate deals: Big brands, including banks and telecom firms, now pay popular skit makers to advertise their products.

Online income: YouTube pays creators for views and ad placements on their videos.

Public appearances and merchandise: Some sell their own clothing lines or perform at live events and shows.

Paid promotions: Because they attract attention online, they also earn money for promoting music, products, or events.

In a report by Dataleum, it was revealed that Nigerian skit creators made over ₦1 billion in total earnings in 2023.

That number shows how far the industry has come in a short time.

Content that hits home

One of the reasons for their success is the kind of content they create.

Most of these skits show real-life situations, like stressful Lagos traffic, stubborn neighbours, church activities, police drama, and village life.

These are experiences many Nigerians understand, and that makes the content more enjoyable.

The quality of these skits has also improved. What used to be short, shaky videos has now become high-quality content with proper lighting, clear audio, and even actors.

Many creators now work with editors, camera handlers, and costume designers to polish their videos.

More than just entertainment

Besides laughter, these skits are now used to highlight serious issues.

Creators often talk about things like corruption, poor mental health, gender roles, and the pressure young people face.

They use humour to send strong messages, making people think while also making them laugh.

This growing comedy sector has also created jobs.

Many young people now earn a living as video editors, writers, makeup artists, and production assistants.

Behind every funny video, there is often a team working hard to bring the idea to life.

Criticisms

Even with all the progress, there are still concerns.

Some viewers complain about too much vulgar language, overused stereotypes, or skits that go too far just to get views.

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Others worry about content being copied without credit and the absence of proper rules in the industry.

Still, most skit creators are learning and improving.

Many now behave more professionally and respect creative boundaries.

Industry efforts like the Nigerian Skit Industry Awards (NSIA) are now helping to encourage quality and reward creativity.

Comedy’s bew chapter in Nigeria

Comedy in Nigeria has always been powerful, from Baba Sala and Zebrudaya to the likes of Ali Baba and AY. But today’s digital creators are changing the game.

With smartphones and social media, a new generation of comedians is reaching larger audiences faster than ever before.

Skit-making has become more than just a way to pass time.

It is now a business, a career, and a voice for the youth.

As long as Nigerians continue to laugh, this industry will keep growing and opening more doors for talent across the country.