The streaming company said on Tuesday that audiobook users in supported markets will now have access to more than 650 narrated long-form articles in English.

The articles come from publications including Rolling Stone, The Atlantic, Vogue, Variety, Vanity Fair, Billboard and WIRED.

Spotify said the narrated articles are produced by its in-house audiobooks team and each one runs for less than two hours. Premium subscribers can listen through their monthly audiobook allowance, while free users can buy individual articles for $1.99.

The company is expanding the range of content on its platform as competition grows across audio streaming, podcasts and AI-generated music services.

Competitors in the space include YouTube and Netflix, while AI music startups such as Udio and Suno have also entered the market.

Spotify co-chief executive Alex Norström recently said the company now accounts for about 20% of the US audiobooks market.

The new feature is designed to give listeners shorter audio content that can lead them towards longer audiobook listening over time.

“With Articles, we’re introducing long-form journalism in audio as a natural extension of the music, podcasts, and audiobooks people already come to Spotify for, focused on topics we know they love,” said Colleen Prendergast, Licensing Lead at Spotify Audiobooks.

She added: “By bringing shorter form content into the mix, we’re meeting audiences where they are to help build healthy listening habits, ultimately growing engagement with books over time.”

Spotify launched its audiobooks business just over two years ago and says it has since expanded into 22 markets. The company also said audiobook listening hours have risen 60% year on year as it continues adding new features to the service.

The streaming service launched in Nigeria in February 2021, and since then, listening has risen year after year. In the early years, growth ran into triple digits, with average growth, led by Afrobeats, at 163.5% in 2025.

Between 2021 and 2025, Afrobeats streams in Nigeria increased by 5,022%.

Other genres also posted strong growth. Amapiano streams rose by 10,330%. Gospel and praise music grew by 5,499%. Hip-hop and rap climbed 3,020%, while R&B increased by 2,602%.

Listening in indigenous Nigerian languages is also increasing.

Within Nigeria, streams of indigenous language music grew by 554% in 2024 and by 87% in 2025. Outside Nigeria, the same category rose by 141% in 2024 and 41% in 2025.

The first song streamed in Nigeria when Spotify launched in 2021 was “到此為止” by Shiga Lin.

Over the past five years, the most-streamed artists in Nigeria on Spotify are Asake, Wizkid, Seyi Vibez, Burna Boy and Davido.

The most-streamed songs during the same period include “Remember” by Asake; “Dealer” by Ayo Maff and Fireboy DML; “Awolowo” by Fido; “Kese (Dance)” by Wizkid; “Lonely At The Top” by Asake; “Joy is Coming” by Fido; “With You (feat. Omah Lay)” by Davido and Omah Lay; “Terminator” by Asake; “MMS” by Asake and Wizkid; and “Doha” by Seyi Vibez.

Spotify says the number of Nigerian artists on the platform has increased by 158% since launch.

User activity has also expanded, with Nigerians having created more than 25 million playlists over the past five years.

In 2025 alone, listeners in Nigeria recorded more than 1.4 million play hours on Spotify. Podcast listening is also growing, with more than 59 billion total podcast hours streamed since launch.

Recent data shows that the average listener in Nigeria streams 150 different artists. The average listener age is 26.

Five years after launch, the figures show steady growth in volume, genre spread and local language listening.

In Nigeria, a vibrant community of podcasters have emerged, reshaping podcast with innovative content and unique perspectives. These Nigerian podcasters make podcasting impressive and worth our time.

1. Osagie Alonge, Steve Dede and Ayomide Tayo – Loose Talk Podcast

The hosts of Loose Talk Podcast, were initially known for their insightful discussions on pop culture, music, and entertainment in Nigeria. Having delved into the tech industry, as Osagie Alonge, became the Director of Marketing at Kippa, Steve Dede, Editor-in-Chief at tech company Fincra, and Ayomide Tayo, a Journalist, they now discuss politics, commerce, fame, and tech.

With engaging interviews and thought-provoking debates, Loose Talk has become a must-listen for Nigerians.

2. Tolu ‘Toolz’ Oniru-Demuren – The Wrap Up with Toolz

Tolu ‘Toolz’ Oniru-Demuren, a respected media personality, hosts The Wrap Up with Toolz, a podcast exploring diverse topics from relationships to societal issues. Known for her warm and engaging style, Toolz, along with her celebrity guests, leads discussions on societal issues, pop culture, relationships, and fashion. 

The show combines fun, drinking games, and candid conversations, providing suggestions and opinions tailored for young, hip, and upwardly mobile Nigerians. The podcast offers an intimate space where celebrities share personal, unheard stories, making it a favorite among listeners seeking relatable and entertaining content.

3. Fred Santana, Temi Alchemy and VP – 90s Baby Show

Fred Santana, Temi Alchemy, and VP co-host the 90s Baby Show, infusing it with humor and profound insights. This podcast serves as a rich tapestry, delving into diverse subjects such as pop culture, social issues, and personal experiences. Its resonance lies in capturing the essence of young Nigerians grappling with the intricacies of adulthood in our fast-evolving society. 

The show is an immersive exploration into the psyche of a 90s baby, offering listeners a unique perspective on their experiences. The hosts navigate through topical global issues while endeavoring to bridge the generational gap between the youth and older generations.

4. Fisayo Fosudo – Fisayo Explains

Fisayo Fosudo, a passionate tech enthusiast and prolific content creator, takes the helm at “Fisayo Explains,” a podcast tailored specifically for the average Nigerian. With a mission to demystify intricate technological concepts, Fisayo utilizes his expertise to unravel the complexities of tech for his audience. 

Through a blend of accessible explanations and in-depth expert interviews, he not only simplifies but also illuminates complex tech subjects. Fostering understanding, Fisayo empowers his listeners with invaluable knowledge, enabling them to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and expertise.

5. Folu Storms – Ada Afoluwake Ogunkeye

Folu Storms, a highly skilled media personality, takes the helm at the “Items Podcast” under the moniker Ada Afoluwake Ogunkeye. Folu delves deep into the narratives woven around ordinary objects and daily experiences. 

Her dulcet tones and masterful storytelling techniques serve as a magnet, drawing listeners into the enchanting world she creates. With a blend of soothing voice modulation and profound insights, Folu effortlessly transforms mundane subjects into riveting tales, making the seemingly ordinary aspects of life utterly fascinating for her captivated audience.

6. Tobe Nwigwe – The Tobe Nwigwe Podcast

Tobe Nwigwe, a dynamic Nigerian-American rapper and dedicated activist, assumes the role of host in “The Tobe Nwigwe Podcast.” In this transformative platform, Tobe transcends the boundaries of music, culture, and social issues, weaving his unique perspective into the fabric of each episode. 

With an unparalleled mastery of storytelling and lyrical brilliance, he crafts a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with listeners. Tobe’s podcast becomes a powerful conduit, enabling him to establish profound connections with his audience, stirring emotions, and sparking thoughtful reflections on the intricate layers of music, culture, and societal concerns.

7. Chude Jideonwo – WithChude

Chude Jideonwo, a well-known media expert, runs the WithChude podcast. This podcast is all about mental health, discovering oneself, and growing as a person. Chude talks to people from different backgrounds, having deep and understanding conversations. 

These interviews give helpful advice and inspire listeners to take care of their mental and emotional health, encouraging personal growth and self-discovery.

8. Jola Ayeye and FK Abudu – I Said What I Said Podcast

Jola Ayeye and FK Abudu host the “I Said What I Said Podcast,” exhibiting a commendable talent for conversation. Their unique appeal lies in their adept use of humor, even when delving into somber topics like the Lekki Toll Gate Massacre, demonstrating a rare ability to balance gravitas with lightheartedness. Their episodes are infused with relatable stories and personal experiences, fostering a strong sense of connection with their audience.

What sets them apart is their discerning eye for selecting guests, ensuring diverse perspectives and enriching discussions. Their insightful questions and skillful direction guide conversations seamlessly, elevating the podcast to a level akin to seasoned talk show hosts. 

9. Emmanuel Taymesan – Tea With Tay Podcast

Emmanuel Taymesan, the charismatic host of the “Tea With Tay Podcast,” curates a delightful experience for listeners seeking engaging conversations. In this show, Taymesan dives into a wide range of societal issues and personal experiences every week, delivering a perfect blend of entertainment and insightful discussion. 

What sets this show apart is its unique blend of fun and depth, transforming serious topics into enjoyable yet thought-provoking discussions. Taymesan’s talent shines as he hosts beloved celebrities, providing an exclusive glimpse into their lives. The podcast’s charm lies in its diverse array of guests, each with intriguing stories, offering varied perspectives. Taymesan masterfully captures the essence of “getting the tea,” creating an engaging platform where listeners can delve into societal intricacies and personal narratives with entertainment and depth.

10. Ayomide Tayo and Ugochi Anyanwu – 234 Essential

Ayomide Tayo (aot2) and Ugochi Anyanwu invite you on an exciting adventure in the “234 Essential” podcast. Together, they explore not only the latest trends in Nigerian pop culture, music, movies, and more but also dive deeper into the bigger picture. 

This podcast goes beyond social media buzz, offering accurate historical and societal context to the online trends. It’s a unique opportunity to understand the roots of what’s popular and explore the rich cultural landscape of Nigeria. Plus, this podcast is an original creation from Global Village, ensuring high-quality content for every listener.

Conclusion

These Nigerian podcasters have created meaningful connections with their audiences. Through their diverse content and authentic voices, they have reshaped the podcasting world in Nigeria and beyond.

As we celebrate these pioneers and innovators, let’s continue to support and engage with their podcasts, fostering a culture of meaningful dialogue and understanding in our society.

In a time when an overwhelming abundance of information and content keeps us perpetually engaged, there’s no room for boredom. From soul-stirring music to binge-worthy blockbuster movies on and a deluge of gossip podcasts flooding the internet, there’s something for everyone to follow and trend with.

The dynamic and ever-evolving Nigerian entertainment sphere, gossip podcasts seem to have multiplied, captivating audiences with juicy scandals and intriguing celebrity rumours.

While these podcasts undoubtedly keep listeners hooked, there is a growing demand for diversity and substance in the podcast landscape. Few political podcasts have emerged to delve into critical national issues, leaving a gap that yearns to be filled. The hunger for informative and thought-provoking content seems insatiable, and Nigerians are eager to explore new avenues of knowledge and entertainment.

Surprisingly, despite the growing popularity of podcasts in various industries, there has been a lack of a centralised platform that allows Nigerians to discover and access podcasts from different fields conveniently.

This absence of a unified podcast hub has made it challenging for users to explore beyond their usual interests, limiting the discovery of fresh and exciting content. But with the imminent arrival of Vibeoo, an innovative online audio on-demand platform, the Nigerian podcasting scene is on the brink of a revolution.

Vibeoo, with its highly anticipated official launch into the Nigerian market, aims to redefine the podcasting experience for users across the nation. This platform promises to be the go-to destination for those seeking an exclusive, diverse, and enriching podcasting journey.

By bringing together podcasts from various industries, including sports, entertainment, politics, technology, education, and more, Vibeoo aspires to create a comprehensive podcast ecosystem that caters to every listener’s taste.

Podcasts have provided Nigerians with an unparalleled platform to express their personal narratives and experiences, with shows like “I Said What I Said,” hosted by Jolaoluwa Ayeye (Jollz) and Feyikemi Abudu (FK); “Tell Lagos,” hosted by Feyikemi Oyesola; “The Lagosian,” hosted by Amarachi Nwosu; and of course the controversial and sensational “The Honest Bunch” audiovisual podcast hosted by popular On-air radio host, Nedu.

These podcasts offer a diverse range of perspectives and have become a powerful medium for sharing stories and engaging discussions, resonating with audiences across the country.

Nigerian creators should seize this opportunity and utilize Vibeoo to expand their reach to a broader audience. With a growing community of eager listeners looking for unique, engaging, and thought-provoking content, Vibeoo offers a fertile ground for content creators to thrive. As the platform gains momentum, advertisers are also advised to take notice of this burgeoning podcast destination.

With a highly engaged and diverse user base, Vibeoo provides a compelling avenue for advertisers to connect with their target audiences effectively.

Watch Chinedu Abili-Mordi,  the Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer of Vibeoo as he discusses the podcasting industry in Nigeria, the media industry, and a lot more!