When it comes to the world of dance, Nigeria is a treasure trove of extraordinary talent. From the energetic beats of afrobeats to the graceful movements of contemporary dance, Nigerian dancers have been making waves both locally and internationally. In this article, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of Nigerian dance, showcasing the crème de la crème of the country’s dance scene. Prepare to be inspired and amazed as we unveil the best dancers that Nigeria has to offer. Below are the best dances in Nigeria.
Best Dancers In Nigeria
Poco Lee
Poco Lee, whose birth name is Iwe Pascal, is an exceptionally talented dancer whose leg work can be likened to that of a king in the world of dance. If dancing were a beauty pageant, his leg work would undoubtedly be crowned as Mrs. Universe. The way he seamlessly moves his legs in and out creates a mesmerizing display that can only be described as a true art form.
Poco Lee’s performances are filled with an infectious energy that captivates audiences and leaves them in awe. It comes as no surprise that he is widely regarded as the finest dancer in Nigeria, with his remarkable skills earning him appearances in numerous music videos both within the country and internationally. His contributions to the dance industry have garnered him widespread acclaim, and he continues to amaze and entertain countless people with his incredible talent.
Kaffy
Despite being widely known as Kaffy, the accomplished dancer, choreographer, and fitness coach’s birth name is Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau-Ameh. Born on June 30, 1980, Kaffy has made significant contributions to the world of dance. Her journey began in 2002 when she caught the attention of a promoter while performing a dance rehearsal at the National Stadium.
Unbeknownst to her, the event was attended by several renowned artists who were highly impressed by her captivating performance. This encounter opened doors for Kaffy and marked the beginning of her flourishing career. Known for her boundless energy and dynamic moves, Kaffy has had the privilege of appearing in numerous award-winning music videos for notable Nigerian artists, both within the country and internationally. Her exceptional skills as a dancer have also led her to provide dance instructions to various artists, sharing her expertise and passion for the art form.
In 2006, Kaffy’s leadership and determination propelled her dance group to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the “Longest Dance Party,” a remarkable feat achieved by dancing continuously for an astonishing 55 hours and 40 minutes. Her unwavering commitment to her craft and the art of dance has earned her recognition and respect.
Pinkie Debbie
Pinkie Debbie is an esteemed professional dancer hailing from Nigeria, recognized not only for her exceptional talent but also for breaking a Guinness World Record in 2017 for the longest dancing marathon. In the vibrant Nigerian dance scene, when the legwork dance style gained immense popularity, Pinkie Debbie emerged as one of the pioneers who displayed exceptional mastery of this captivating style.
Throughout her career, Pinkie Debbie has collaborated with numerous music artists, lending her incredible dance skills to enhance their music videos. Her contributions have not only enriched the visual aspects of these productions but have also helped elevate the artistry and impact of the music itself. Furthermore, Pinkie Debbie has consistently delighted her fans by showcasing her extraordinary dance abilities on social media platforms like Instagram. These captivating displays of talent serve as a testament to her dedication and passion for her craft, while also providing entertainment and joy to her ever-growing fan base.
Lil Smart
Idowu Smart Emmanuel, widely known as Lil Smart, is a prominent figure in the Nigerian dance industry and regarded as one of the country’s finest professional dancers. Alongside his exceptional dancing skills, Lil Smart is also recognized as a songwriter, model, and comedian, showcasing his diverse talents and artistic versatility.
A notable aspect of Lil Smart’s rise to prominence is his striking resemblance to the acclaimed Nigerian artist Naira Marley, which has played a significant role in boosting his career. The power of social media has been instrumental in recognizing and promoting emerging talents, and Lil Smart’s journey is a testament to this. He was discovered by Naira Marley through Instagram, which served as a platform for Lil Smart to showcase his remarkable dance abilities.
In 2019, Lil Smart’s talent caught the attention of a wider audience when he posted a dance video to one of Naira Marley’s songs on Instagram. This captivating performance not only garnered the admiration of Naira Marley but also attracted the attention of other renowned celebrities such as Tiwa Savage, Davido, and Zlatan.
One of Lil Smart’s notable contributions to the dance scene is his creation of popular Afrobeats dance steps, including Shaku Shaku, Zanku, Tesumole, Kupe, Soapy, and Mafa Mafa. These unique and innovative dance moves have gained widespread popularity and have become part of the cultural fabric of Nigerian music and dance.
Akay Wills
Akay Wills, a talented professional dancer, choreographer, and vocalist, proudly represents Nigeria even while residing in the United Kingdom. Despite being physically located in a different country, Akay Wills has earned recognition as one of the top dancers in Nigeria. Her exceptional skills and dedication to her craft have propelled her to the forefront of the Nigerian dance scene.
With a strong presence on various social media platforms, Akay Wills has garnered a substantial following of supporters from all corners of the globe. This widespread influence is a testament to her remarkable talent and the universal appeal of her performances. Through her captivating dance routines, she transcends geographical boundaries and connects with audiences worldwide.
Rahman Jago
Rahman Jago, also known as Tiamiu Abdulraham Kayode, stands out among the dancers in Nigeria on this list as he may not be a formally trained professional dancer, but his leg work skills are nothing short of remarkable, surpassing even some professional dancers. His ability to execute intricate legwork movements at an exceptional level has rightfully earned him a well-deserved place among the best dancers in Nigeria.
What catapulted Rahman Jago to fame was his emergence as a social media sensation, particularly on Instagram, where his captivating dance videos caught the attention of numerous top celebrities in the country. His unique style and flawless execution of the leg work dance garnered widespread recognition and acclaim.
At the age of 33, Rahman Jago exudes a contagious happiness and finds immense joy in expressing himself through his body movements. His passion for dance shines through in every performance, captivating audiences and leaving them in awe of his talent. Notably, Rahman Jago played a significant role in popularizing the original leg work dance, contributing to its evolution and establishing himself as one of its inventors.
Zlatan Ibile
Zlatan Ibile, widely recognized as a renowned Nigerian artist, deserves commendation for his remarkable dancing skills, securing him a notable position among the best dancers in Nigeria. While Zlatan is primarily celebrated for his music career, his exceptional talent for dance cannot be overlooked. His vibrant music videos often feature his captivating dance moves, and he is known for introducing various legwork dances that have gained popularity.
On his Instagram page, Zlatan consistently delights his followers with entertaining dance videos, eliciting excitement and admiration from his fans. Despite already enjoying significant recognition in the spotlight through his successful music career, Zlatan goes above and beyond by actively promoting and propelling emerging dancers into the limelight. His support and collaboration with upcoming dancers contribute to their exposure and growth within the industry.
Zlatan’s journey in the entertainment industry began in 2014 as a musician, and since then, he has expanded his repertoire to encompass various forms of entertainment. This diversification showcases his versatility and commitment to exploring different avenues for creative expression. While his music remains his primary focus, Zlatan’s involvement in dance and other artistic pursuits highlights his multifaceted talent and passion for engaging with his audience through multiple mediums.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kaffy’s real name?
Kaffy’s real name is Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau-Ameh. She is a professional dancer, dance instructor, choreographer, and fitness coach from Nigeria.
Who is Lil Smart?
Lil Smart, whose real name is Idowu Smart Emmanuel, is a Nigerian professional dancer known for his exceptional leg work skills. He gained recognition after dancing to one of Naira Marley’s songs on Instagram and has since collaborated with several music artists, contributing to the popularization of Afrobeats dance steps.
What is dancing?
Dancing is a form of artistic expression and physical movement performed rhythmically to music. It encompasses a wide range of styles, including ballet, hip-hop, contemporary, salsa, ballroom, and many more.
How can I become a better dancer?
To become a better dancer, it is important to practice regularly, take classes in different dance styles, and work with experienced instructors. Focus on technique, musicality, and body awareness. Additionally, watching performances, studying dance history, and exploring different dance genres can further enhance your skills and artistry.
Are dancers athletes?
Yes, dancers are often considered athletes due to the physical demands of their craft. They require strength, agility, endurance, and discipline to perform complex movements and routines. Like athletes, dancers also train extensively, maintain physical fitness, and strive for excellence in their performances.
References
- https://buzznigeria.com/who-is-the-best-dancer-in-nigeria-meet-the-top-10/
- https://infoguidenigeria.com/best-dancers/
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