US YouTuber IShowSpeed visited Lagos on Wednesday, celebrating his 21st birthday as his channel reached 50 million subscribers during an African tour.
The YouTube and Twitch star began the continent-wide journey on December 29, travelling through about 15 countries and drawing swelling crowds.
Rolling Stone named him the Most Influential Creator of 2025, while Forbes estimates his net worth at roughly $20 million.
His Lagos visit opened at the crowded Balogun Market, where excited onlookers heckled him and asked for money.
“What are they saying, it’s like English but different,” he said, before leaving quickly with bodyguards.
At Freedom Park, built on the grounds of a former prison, he flinched at the heat of his first jollof rice.
He later toured the Nike Art Gallery, a cultural landmark often visited by celebrities and senior political figures.
“IShowSpeed is showcasing culture, relationships, and food, helping Americans see Africa as a place to visit,” said YouTuber Stephen Oluwafisayomi.
Around 6:00 pm, he halted his convoy roadside to watch his channel cross 50 million subscribers and buried his face in cake.
“He shows flaws, but they can inspire people to help and improve these places,” said Karim Jari, a student at the gallery.
The previous day, he celebrated Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations victory with fans in Dakar.
Born Darren Jason Watkins Jr in Cincinnati, he rose from gaming videos to globe-spanning adventures filled with spectacle and curiosity.
His tour has featured a cheetah race in South Africa, a football match in Angola, and visits to Kenya and Morocco.
