New data from Twitch and Kick platforms for January 2026 indicates that Nigerian creators dominate Africa’s most-followed live streamers, occupying the majority of the continent’s top 10 positions. The shift reflects growing audience engagement and a broadening of content formats—from gaming to lifestyle and celebrity-driven programming.
Analysts attribute the surge to rising digital participation and the increasing viability of streaming as a full-time career for young Nigerians. The momentum has also drawn interest from international brands seeking credible entry points into Africa’s youth demographic.
Separate reporting has published lists of the highest-ranked streamers and described the trend as a transfer of “streaming leadership” from Southern Africa to West Africa, with Nigeria at the center. Industry observers say this is likely to intensify competition for advertising budgets as streamers become more influential within entertainment and pop culture.
Echotitbits take: This is the new “Nollywood” of the digital age. As internet penetration increases, expect these streamers to rival traditional media for advertising revenue and cultural influence.
Source: Pulse.ng – https://www.pulse.ng/story/africas-biggest-streamers-2026012414530720943 2026-01-26
Photo Credit: Pulse.ng
