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Wizkid Hailed as Africa’s Best-Selling Artist as Fans Celebrate His Record-Breaking Milestones
Nigerian music icon Wizkid is once again at the center of global celebration as fans hail him as Africa’s best-selling artist, following claims that he has now surpassed Algerian legend Cheb Khaled’s record of 81 million units sold.
The excitement online grew even louder with reminders that, in May 2025, Wizkid became the first African artist to hit 20 billion global on-demand audio streams, a milestone that further solidifies his influence on the world stage.
Although these new sales figures are currently driven by fan reports and social media discussions, major global tracking platforms have not yet issued official confirmation.
Verified data places Wizkid at around 75 million certified units, alongside an impressive 150 to 170 career awards earned across continents.
While supporters proudly point to major certifications such as Essence achieving 5× platinum in the United States, industry trackers like Chartmasters still list his total closer to 12.3 million equivalent units, with Cheb Khaled historically credited with over 80 million album sales.
.@wizkidayo is now Africa’s best-selling artist, surpassing Cheb Khaled’s 81M units. He’s the first African act to hit 20B audio streams on-demand and remains the continent’s most awarded artist with 174 awards… pic.twitter.com/3bkjpgdG23
— ChartsAfrica 📊 (@chartsafrica) November 29, 2025
Still, Wizkid’s verified accomplishments remain massive: billions of Spotify streams, multiple RIAA platinums, diamond certifications in other territories, and glowing recognition from Billboard, which recently described him as one of the faces of Afrobeats.
Across social media, fans and colleagues have continued to shower him with praise. Videos of fans dancing to his classics filled timelines, while artists like Duncan Mighty applauded Wizkid’s humility, professionalism, and collaborative spirit.
Wizkid’s global rise has been powered by songs like Essence, his chart-topping collaborations with Drake and Beyoncé, and the unwavering loyalty of his fanbase.
His catalogue, touring records, awards, and streaming numbers paint the picture of an artist who has helped propel Afrobeats into global consciousness.
Industry watchers agree on one thing: even as exact sales figures await official confirmation, Wizkid’s achievements represent one of the most extraordinary success stories ever recorded by an African musician on the international stage.
Wizkid is Africa’s Best Selling Artist with over 81 million units.
ESSENCE
5x Platinum in USA (5 million)
Platinum in the UK (600K), Switzerland (20K)
3x Platinum in Canada (240K), New Zealand (90K)
2x Platinum in Nigeria (200K)
7x Platinum in South Africa (140K)
Gold in… pic.twitter.com/i8meNvjnVO
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) November 29, 2025