Nigerian rapper and singer Zlatan Ibile has opened up about the pivotal moment that transformed his life and career, revealing that his failure in a mathematics exam set him on the unexpected path to becoming one of Nigeria’s most celebrated music stars.
During a candid interview on Apple Music 1 with South African host Nandi Madida, the rapper shared that his academic struggles in mathematics and accounting prevented him from securing university admission in 2011. What initially seemed like a setback, he said, became the divine redirection that led him toward music.
Zlatan, whose real name is Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, recalled that at the time, he had no interest in pursuing a career in entertainment. He was just a humble church drummer who played for his local congregation every Sunday. “I didn’t even think I’d end up as a musician. I was just a church drummer then,” he said, reflecting on his modest beginnings.
The rapper revealed that his first attempt at recording music was far from successful. However, his family—particularly his mother—encouraged him not to give up. “My mum told me to believe in myself,” Zlatan said. “Even though my first song didn’t sound great, she said I had something special. That pushed me to try again.”
Breakthrough Came Through a Campus Rap Contest
Zlatan’s breakthrough came during his university days when he entered a campus rap competition organized by Airtel. He joined without high expectations, but his performance earned him first place—along with a brand-new car. “I joined the contest without expecting anything serious,” he said. “When they announced my name as the winner and handed me a car key, I realized my life could actually change through music.”
That defining moment, he explained, made him take his musical journey more seriously. From that day, Zlatan devoted himself to improving his sound, writing better lyrics, and exploring the unique street-hop energy that would later make him a household name.
Rising to Stardom and Inspiring Millions
Following his early breakthrough, Zlatan worked relentlessly, eventually developing his distinct Afro-street sound that combined Yoruba chants, humor, and danceable beats. His 2018 hit single “Zanku (Leg Work)” not only introduced a new viral dance step but also marked his arrival on the Afrobeats global stage.
He credited hard work, persistence, and divine timing for his rise, saying, “If I had passed my maths exam, maybe I would have been sitting behind a desk somewhere today, not on stage performing. God’s delay was His direction for me.”
New Album Carries Message of Resilience and Hope
Speaking about his latest project, titled “Symbol of Hope”, Zlatan said it represents his message to young people facing difficulties in their lives. The album, according to him, is a celebration of endurance, faith, and the belief that every failure can become a foundation for success.
“I get messages from people saying my music keeps them motivated,” he said. “That’s why I named the album Symbol of Hope — to remind them that no condition is permanent and every struggle can turn into a story of victory.”
He emphasized that his journey from academic failure to stardom is proof that destiny often takes shape through unexpected experiences. “If you fail, don’t stop there,” he advised. “Sometimes God just wants to redirect your path.”
Zlatan concluded by expressing gratitude to his fans, family, and team for believing in him from the beginning. “Everything I am today started from a failure that turned out to be a blessing. I’m thankful for every step of the journey,” he said.