Nigerian rapper Temidayo Omoniyi, popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, has opened up about the challenges he faced in his early music career while studying at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In a candid interview with popular streamer Shank Comics, the Zanku crooner revealed that despite winning the Airtel One Mic Talent Show in 2014, his financial struggles persisted for years before fame found him.
Zlatan recalled that he used the car he won from the competition as a commercial taxi at night just to make ends meet and support himself through school.
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“Back in school, when there was no money for food, I would just wait till night and use the car I won from the Airtel One Mic Talent show to run a cab from Abeokuta to Shagamu for ₦350,” he recounted.
Zlatan, who won the talent competition at the young age of 19, said he had high hopes that the victory would open immediate doors in the entertainment industry. However, reality proved otherwise, as he still had to hustle hard to survive.
According to him, the car prize, which symbolized success, quickly turned into a means of daily survival. The rapper explained that after attending lectures during the day, he would hit the road at night, transporting passengers between Abeokuta and Shagamu to afford food and pay school expenses.
The rapper’s story highlights the resilience of many Nigerian youths who balance education with economic hardship while pursuing their dreams.
Zlatan’s major breakthrough came three years later in 2017 when he collaborated with renowned rapper Olamide on his hit single My Body. The song’s success marked the turning point of his career, earning him widespread attention in the Nigerian music scene.
In previous interviews, Zlatan has described Olamide’s feature as “life-changing,” crediting the YBNL boss for giving him his first major platform in the industry.
“That verse changed everything for me,” Zlatan once said. “Olamide didn’t just record with me; he gave me recognition, confidence, and belief that my time had come.”
Following his breakout success, Zlatan went on to establish his own record label, Zanku Records, and pioneered the viral Zanku (Zlatan Abeg No Kill Us) dance movement, which became a nationwide sensation.
With hits such as Zanku (Legwork), Bolanle, and Shotan featuring Tiwa Savage, the rapper solidified his place as one of Nigeria’s most influential street-hop artists.
His signature energy, street-inspired lyrics, and relatable storytelling continue to resonate with fans across Africa.
Reflecting on his journey, Zlatan said his past struggles keep him grounded and grateful for his current success. He often references his humble beginnings in his music, reminding fans that his rise was far from easy.
“People see the fame now, but they don’t know the sacrifices,” he said. “There were nights I drove till 3 a.m. just to afford food the next day. Those experiences taught me resilience.”
From hustling as a student cab driver to becoming a household name in Nigerian music, Zlatan’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance, talent, and faith can transform even the toughest beginnings into success stories.
