They have grown to become merchants in their own trade. They charge you huge sum of money to make you laugh with their jokes, expensive jokes you may say! They go by the trade name “Comedians of the Federal Republic (CFR)”.

In this edition, Maggie’s Blog presents to you five topmost Nigerian comedians. Enjoy.

ATUNYOTA ALLELUYA AKPOBOME (ALIBABA)

With a net worth of about $7 million, Alibaba is said to be one of the richest comedians in the country. Born on the June 24, 1965, Atunyota’s career began officially in the late 1980s during which he also featured in several movies and series on Television.

The ‘Wedding Party’ actor is recognised widely as the king and grandfather of comedy in the country as a good number of up and coming comedians look up to him as a role model.

Alibaba currently hosts a weekly show on Nigeria Television Authority called ‘Alibaba Seriously’.

AYO MAKUN (AY)

A scriptwriter, movie producer, director, stand-up comedian and an actor, AY (as he is popularly known) is considered to be one of Nigeria’s most talented and industrious comedians. With a net worth of $4 million, hosting the annual “AY Live” only, causes that figure to increase by about 15% every year.

So far, Ayo has done very well at putting out oomph jokes.

BRIGHT OKPOCHA (BASKETMOUTH)

Better known by his stage name, Basketmouth, Bright is considered as one of the most influential entertainers in the Nigerian entertainment industry. The 40 years old comedian and actor holds a degree from the University of Benin in Sociology and Anthropology.

The rapper turned joker appears in an African Magic serial called ‘My Flatmates’.

BOVI UGBOMA (BOVI)

Bovi is a writer, comedian and an actor. He hails from Delta State in South-South Nigeria.

This talented master of jokes has held and hosted numerous entertainment events like ‘Bovi Man on Fire’ across the globe.

It is not arguable that the future is bright for this young man’s career.

FRANCIS ADOGA (I GO DYE)

Popularly known as I Go Dye (or I Go Die), Francis is a writer, social activist, motivational speaker, crusader and visionary comedian.

The 39-year-old entertainer who hails from Delta State has used his artistry to promote global peace and child welfare. He has also organised several international comedy shows such as “Igodye Standing”.