Who Is Naira Marley?
Naira Marley is a popular Nigerian musician who is amongst the most-influential and most-controversial music artist in Nigeria today. In the colourful landscape of Afrobeats, one intriguing character has managed to carve a particular niche. His name is Naira Marley, who claims to be the president of his die-hard fans called “Marlians.” His music which is infused with a combination of street-hop, Afrobeats and hip-hop beats found quite a fan following in a short span of time.
Naira Marley was born in Agege, Lagos and raised in Peckham, South London. Thus, he uniquely combines the musical cultures of Nigeria and Britain. His transition from graduating as a business student to becoming a music icon shows the power of change as well as persistence.
What Is Naira Marley’s Net Worth in 2025?
Naira Marley’s net worth is estimated to be $3-4 million as of May 2025. His wealth is now a massive leap compared to previously valuations which pegged it at $1 million in 2023.
Most of his wealth comes from his successful music career while there are also large contributions from his record label operations, brand endorsements, and various businesses. Though not one of Nigeria’s richest musicians like Davido (who is estimated to be worth $108 million), Naira Marley is a financially successful Nigerian musician.
Breakdown of Wealth Accumulation
| Income Source | Estimated Contribution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Music Streaming & Sales | $1-1.5 million | Across platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and local streaming services |
| Live Performances | $500,000+ | Commands up to ₦20 million ($25,000) per show |
| Marlian Records | $800,000-1 million | Revenue from signed artists and label operations |
| Endorsements & Partnerships | $300,000-500,000 | Various brand deals in Nigeria |
| Real Estate Investments | $400,000-700,000 | Multiple properties in Lagos |
| Other Business Ventures | $200,000-300,000 | Merchandise and other entrepreneurial activities |
How Much Does Naira Marley Make from Music?
Naira Marley earns money from music from various sources.
- Streaming Revenue: His Youtube channel earned revenue of 299m plus views. He likely makes $800,000-1.1 million a year through streaming on platforms.
- Performance Fees: Naira Marley revealed he charges around ₦20 million which is about $25,000 per show. He also claimed to have pocketed ₦60 million ($75,000) for three shows for Access Bank.
- Record Sales: The global drop in physical album sales has, however, not stopped him from making money as digital sales continue.
Naira Marley Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Azeez Adeshina Fashola |
| Date of Birth | May 10, 1991 |
| Age | 34 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | British-Nigerian |
| Education | Bachelor’s Degree in Business Law, Christ the King Sixth Form College, London |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Rapper, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | Founder of Marlian Records, Controversial music style |
| Net Worth | $3-4 million (2025 estimate) |
| Record Label | Marlian Records (Founder) |
| Notable Songs | “Issa Goal,” “Soapy,” “Am I A Yahoo Boy,” “Mafo,” “Coming” |
| Social Media | Instagram: @nairamarley (7M+ followers) |
| Children | Four (Aishat, Simiat, Farouk, and Fawaz) |
Naira Marley Biography: From Lagos to International Fame
Early Life and Education
Naira Marley, born Azeez Fashola, is from Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria. When he turned 11, he moved to Peckham, South London, where he spent his growing years. The two cultural influences led to the unique style of music.
He had a good upbringing and was educated at Porlock Hall. He then went to Walworth School, where he obtained his GCSEs. He was good student who graduated with distinction in business at Peckham Academy in 2010 then went to study Business Law at Christ the King Sixth Form College in London.
At first, Naira Marley wanted to be an MC and a voice-over artist but took a musical turn in 2013 after friends from the Queens Roads in Peckham encouraged him to make music instead.
Musical Breakthrough
Naira Marley was able to break into the music scene in December 2017 after the release of “Issa Goal”, his breakthrough single that features Olamide and Lil Kesh. The song became very popular and ended up being the unofficial anthem of Nigeria Super Eagles during the FIFA World Cup in 2018.
His 2019 song “Am I A Yahoo Boy” which features Zlatan also brought him to the limelight but for controversy. After getting out of EFCC, he dropped Soapy, which was a hit, and in the Soundcity MVP Awards 2020, he won a Viewers’ Choice award.
Marlian Music: Creating an Empire of Record Labels
Naira Marley launched his record label, Marlian Records, during his “Marlian Fest” concert at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos in December 2019. The label’s inception was marked by signing four artists which are Zinoleesky, MohBad, CBlvck, and Fabian Blu.
The label has since been expanded to include EMO Grae, Lyta and Tori Keeche, the label’s first female artist. Marlian Records has offered a platform for young people and upcoming talents to showcase their brilliance in the Nigerian music industry, albeit not without controversies surrounding artist management and contracts.
Controversies and Legal Challenges
Naira Marley’s career is filled with controversies and legal challenges. In May 2019, he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations regarding internet fraud, a day after dropping “Am I A Yahoo Boy.” He was granted bail and has faced various legal battles since then.
He faced backlash for performing during the COVID-19 lockdowns and subsequent fallout with former signees, notably with MohBad before the latter’s demise in 2023.
Where Does Naira Marley Live Now?
Naira Marley lives in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He has many properties in Nigeria with his house located mostly in Lagos. He is reported to have bought about ten houses in Lekki, Lagos, alone.
Although he has a strong presence in Nigeria for work, his children are British citizens living in the UK. This indicates that he most likely has a home there as well.
Business Lessons from Naira Marley’s Journey
Naira Marley’s rise, despite the controversies, offers several lessons worth taking:
- Brand Building: Distinctive identity for a defined audience segment, known as brand building, was created.
- Diversification: He is generating revenue from music and record label management, among others.
- Adaptability: He is able to adapt well from the UK market to the Nigerian market.
- Use Controversy: He used public attention to make money, even if not worth but possible.
- Business Education: His education in business was likely important to his successful ventures.
What Is Naira Marley Doing Today?
As of 2025, Naira Marley is still releasing music and managing his label, Marlian Records. His latest album “God’s Timing Is The Best” is still gaining power across the streaming services.
He’s focused on growing Marlian Records’ roster and impact in the Nigerian music scene. The label is still operating, even in the wake of controversies surrounding former signees.
Naira Marley’s Other Ventures and Investments
Naira Marley has diversified his income through several investment options aside from music and record label.
- Real Estate: He invests heavily in Lagos real estate.
- Endorsements: Though he is not as mainstream as some other Nigerian artists who have promotions, he has partnered with brands that suit his image.
- Merchandise: He also earns revenue through the sale of “Marlian” merchandise.
- Digital Content: His significant social media following across platforms opens monetization avenues.
How Does Naira Marley Spend His Wealth?
Naira Marley is expensive, but he’s not showing off like some others in the same industry as he is. His spending habits include:
Luxury Cars
Naira Marley has a fleet of luxurious cars which includes:
- Bentley Continental GT (worth around ₦50 million)
- Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon (price estimated at ₦24 million)
- Porsche Panamera (valued at approximately ₦16 million)
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Real Estate
He invested heavily in real estate, allegedly owning several properties in Lagos, especially around the Lekki area.
Family Support
Having four children and with an extended family, family support constitutes a large part of his expenditure. His children are all British citizens residing in the UK.
Who is in Naira Marley’s Family?
While he leads a fairly private family life, we can still find out a little about him:
- Parents: He conceals the identity of his parents.
- Siblings: There are three siblings of his; sister Mariam Fashola who is a model and Instagram influencer; and two brothers Babatunde Moshood popularly called Shuddy Funds who looks a lot like Naira Marley, and Idris aka Marley Jr.
- Children: He has four children, twin girls Aishat and Simiat (born April 2015), Farouk (born October 30, 2015) and Fawaz (born April 7, 2018). All his kids are British citizens and live in the UK.
- Marital Status: Reportedly has two wives whose names are unknown and hasn’t spoken about it in public.
Facts About Naira Marley
Combines Nigerian currency (Naira) with a tribute to reggae legend Bob Marley.
Has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Law from Christ the King College, London.
A cultural phenomenon with specific identifiers centered around Naira Marley’s fanbase
Approximately ₦20 million ($25,000) per performance according to his public statements
Reportedly owns around ten properties, mostly in the Lekki area of Lagos.
Reportedly has two wives, though their identities remain private and undisclosed publicly.
Keeps his parents’ identities private with no public information available about them.
Mariam Fashola, who works as a model and Instagram influencer.
No public information exists about his parents’ financial status or background.
Believed to be Muslim, though he rarely discusses his religious beliefs publicly.
Divides his time between Nigeria for work and the UK where his children live.
Naira Marley’s $3-4 million net worth is higher than Zlatan’s estimated worth.
Conclusion
From being a business student to being one of the most controversial and successful music icons, Naira Marley’s journey is a clear reflection of Nigeria’s entertainment scene. In 2025, his net worth will be about $3-4 million. His unique style, business acumen, and controversial persona have enabled him to build a musical empire.
Besides the controversies, with his launch of Marlian Records and consistent hitmaking ability, he seems to know what he is talking about in the industry. Naira Marley has made his name prominent in African music and he keeps doing so as the days pass.
Key Takeaways
- Net Worth: $3-4 million (2025)
- Primary wealth source: Music career and Marlian Records
- Major assets: Multiple properties in Lagos and luxury vehicles
- Musical legacy: Pioneering a unique blend of Afrobeats and street-hop
- Business ventures: Record label ownership and real estate investments
- Controversial yet commercially successful career trajectory
