YouTube Celebrates Ruth Kadiri, Kiekie, and Other Nigerian Female Creators

Ify Mogekwu, Ruth Kadiri and Kiekie
To mark its 20th anniversary, YouTube has honored four outstanding Nigerian women who are using their creative talents to shape conversations across the world. These creators — Ruth Kadiri, Kiekie, Ify Mogekwu (Ify’s Kitchen), and Korty — are being recognised for their impact in filmmaking, comedy, food, and youth culture.
According to YouTube, these women showcase the strength of African storytelling and how it connects cultures, informs minds, and inspires audiences around the globe.
Meet the Women Making Waves
Ruth Kadiri: A respected filmmaker and actress, Ruth has consistently delivered relatable and emotional Nigerian stories that resonate with millions.
Kiekie: Known for her mix of comedy and fashion, Kiekie keeps audiences entertained with her vibrant humour and social satire.
Ify Mogekwu (Ify’s Kitchen): Through her channel, Ify turns traditional Nigerian recipes into culinary experiences enjoyed by a global audience.
Korty: A bold storyteller of Gen Z life, Korty uses interviews and visuals to dive into youth culture with honesty and creativity.
Nigeria’s Rising YouTube Influence
In 2024, over 70% of watch time for Nigerian YouTube channels came from international viewers, proving the global appeal of local content.
“These creators prove that African voices are not just being heard—they’re leading global conversations through storytelling, humour, culture, and creativity.”
— YouTube, 20th Anniversary Statement
Some key highlights:
More than 100 Nigerian channels now have over 1 million subscribers (a 60% increase in one year)
Over 1,500 channels boast over 100,000 subscribers (a 45% increase)
The number of channels earning 8 figures or more in revenue has doubled in the past year
This growth reflects YouTube’s ongoing support for Nigerian creators through tools, visibility, and training opportunities.
YouTube’s recognition of Ruth Kadiri, Kiekie, Ify, and Korty is more than just an award — it’s proof that Nigerian creators are not only entertaining the world but also redefining African narratives. For young creators, this is a reminder that with consistency and creativity, global impact is possible from right here in Nigeria.