The Niger Delta's vibrant music scene thrives not only on powerful beats and lyrics but also on captivating visuals that bring songs to life. As the Niger Delta Advancement Award (NDAA) 8.0 approaches, the Best Music Video Director category celebrates 15 talented directors whose creative visions elevated tracks in 2025. Organized by JUVENIS Magazine/TV, this edition honors excellence across the nine Niger Delta states, with the winner to be announced on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at a glamorous event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
These directors have mastered the art of storytelling through cinematography, blending cultural elements, high-energy performances, and innovative concepts to amplify the region's Afrobeats, hip-hop, and indigenous sounds. Their works have garnered millions of views, viral moments on social media, and critical acclaim. Here are detailed profiles of the nominees:
1. State Filmz for “Abella” – Pyrex Kyddah ft. Duncan Mighty (Rivers State)
State Filmz brings high-energy romance to life in the visuals for "Abella," a 2024 Afrobeat love anthem featuring Port Harcourt legend Duncan Mighty. The video captures heartfelt emotions and dance sequences, complementing the track's catchy melody and strings. State Filmz's direction emphasizes vibrant colors and dynamic shots, showcasing Rivers State's urban flair and contributing to the song's replay appeal.
2. Simple Shaddy for “E No Ma So” – O’Fresh (Delta State)
Simple Shaddy directs the official music video for O’Fresh's electrifying Afrobeat single "E No Ma So," released in 2025. With crisp editing and lively performance shots, Shaddy captures the song's upbeat vibe, making it a visual feast that matches O’Fresh's energetic delivery. Known for clean, engaging storytelling, Simple Shaddy highlights Delta's emerging talent through this vibrant production.
3. Tony Boy for “Ekpe” – G-Kross ft. Texzy (Cross River State)
Tony Boy helms the visuals for "Ekpe," a collaborative track blending Cross River's rhythmic influences. His direction focuses on cultural dance elements and community scenes, bringing authenticity to G-Kross and Texzy's performance. Tony Boy's keen eye for local aesthetics makes this video a celebration of Calabar's vibrant music heritage.
4. Erigga for “El Classico” – Erigga ft. Savage (Edo State)
Street rap icon Erigga takes the director's chair for his own track "El Classico" featuring Savage. The visuals reflect Erigga's raw, motivational narrative with gritty street scenes and intense performances. As a multifaceted artist from Edo, Erigga's self-direction adds personal authenticity, turning the video into a powerful extension of his hustle-themed lyrics.
5. Xmpire for “With You” – Khalif Da Cypha (Bayelsa State)
Xmpire directs the romantic reggae-dancehall visuals for Khalif Da Cypha's "With You." Drawing on Bayelsa's Ijaw roots, the video features serene coastal settings and heartfelt storytelling. Xmpire's smooth transitions and emotional depth enhance the track's loving vibe, solidifying his reputation in regional reggae visuals.
6. Denniz Gbedula for “Sky” – Uptown The Mask King (Rivers State)
Denniz Gbedula, CEO of Picturesque Entertainment, crafts aspirational visuals for Uptown The Mask King's "Sky." Based in Port Harcourt, Gbedula's expertise in cinematography and editing shines through drone shots and uplifting sequences. His work often incorporates professional gear for high-quality output, elevating Rivers State's hip-hop scene.
7. Iccentrik Visuals for “Kpe” – Ikpa Udo (Akwa Ibom State)
Iccentrik Visuals directs "Kpe," meaning "pay" in Efik/Ibibio, for indigenous rapper Ikpa Udo. The video boasts stunning cinematography, cultural motifs, and energetic performances. Iccentrik's portfolio includes collaborations with Akwa Ibom artists, making this a standout in preserving and promoting local dialects through modern visuals.
8. Cruz of Life for “Good Conduct” – Cruz of Life (Imo State)
Rising Afropop artist Cruz of Life self-directs "Good Conduct," an afrosound track promoting positive vibes. From Imo State, his mischievous yet uplifting style translates into fun, relatable scenes that encourage enjoyment and good behavior. This self-produced visual highlights his versatility as a creative force.
9. Spencer (BEMA Africa) for “Suga” – Zubby D (Rivers State)
Spencer of BEMA Africa delivers sweet, melodic visuals for Zubby D's romantic "Suga." The video's groovy elements and charming narrative capture the track's addictive feel. Spencer's direction adds a layer of sophistication, contributing to Rivers State's dominance in feel-good music videos.
10. Oloye Peter for “I’m Enough” – Oloye Coldman (Ondo State)
Oloye Peter directs and edits "I’m Enough" for multi-talented artist Oloye Coldman (real name Oloye Peter Oluwamayowa). Shot in Akure, the video features empowering themes and street-level authenticity. As a director, producer, and artist from Ondo, Peter's hands-on approach ensures a personal, motivational touch.
11. Richy Righteous for “Kalakuta” – King Jfly (Rivers State)
Richy Righteous brings bold, rebellious energy to King Jfly's "Kalakuta," nodding to Afrobeat legacy. The visuals mix intense performances with socio-cultural commentary, reflecting Rivers State's rich musical history. Richy Righteous's righteous-themed direction adds depth and impact.
12. Peru Money for “E Don Happen” – Peru Money ft. Tiger Vibez (Abia State)
Peru Money directs his own collaborative hit "E Don Happen" featuring Tiger Vibez. The upbeat video celebrates success and vibes, with lively party scenes and charismatic performances. From Abia, this self-directed effort showcases emerging directorial talent in celebratory Afrobeat visuals.
13. Bobskido for “Sawanga” – Oba Omega ft. Klove Black & Daddy Que (Rivers State)
Bobskido directs the dynamic visuals for Oba Omega's "Sawanga," a high-energy track with features. Known for capturing dance and zoom mastery, Bobskido's work amplifies the song's infectious rhythm, making it a staple in Rivers State's party playlist.
14. Aves Amani for “Ogbanje” – Aves Amani (Cross River State)
Aves Amani directs the mystical visuals for his own "Ogbanje," exploring spiritual themes. The video's atmospheric storytelling and cultural depth highlight Cross River's Afrobeat innovation. Amani's self-direction blends personal narrative with captivating effects.
15. Maroni Visuals for “Away” – Mick Romzy (Rivers State)
Maroni Visuals crafts emotional, introspective scenes for Mick Romzy's "Away." Produced with fresh beats, the video's clean aesthetics and performance focus enhance the track's reflective tone. Maroni's work adds polish to Rivers State's growing R&B-infused scene.
These directors are the unsung heroes behind the Niger Delta's visual music revolution, turning songs into cultural moments. The NDAA 8.0 event on February 8, 2026, in Port Harcourt promises excitement as the Best Music Video Director is crowned, inspiring more creative excellence in the region.
