Obi Asika is a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur, ecosystem builder, and creative industry leader whose career spans more than 30 years. Recognised by millions across Africa as a judge on Nigerian Idol, his influence extends far beyond television into the heart of Nigeria’s creative, cultural, and digital transformation. Asika is best known for founding Storm 360/Storm Records, one of Nigeria’s most successful entertainment companies that helped usher in the first global wave of Nigerian music stars while producing major international TV franchises such as Big Brother Nigeria, The Apprentice Africa, Dragons’ Den Nigeria, and Naija Sings.
A visionary advocate for cross-sector collaboration, Asika founded Omniverse, a platform that bridges technology, storytelling, and creative enterprise. He also co-founded Social Media Week Lagos, Africa’s largest new media and technology conference, and led sponsor rights management for major sporting events, including the FIFA U-20 World Cup (1999) and African Nations Cup (2000, 2002).
In 2015, Asika became the first person appointed by the Nigerian President to a Cabinet-rank position overseeing digital policy and social media. He has served on over 15 federal committees, including roles shaping the Nigeria Agenda 2050, National Development Plan (2020–2050), and Audience Measurement Policy.
Beyond government, Asika has advanced creative policy and cultural innovation as a board director at COSON, trustee of the Online Publishers Association of Nigeria, and co-convener of the Africa Soft Power Project. His thought leadership has been recognised globally—he sits on advisory boards including the Smithsonian Museum of African Art, Africa No Filter, and DAAR Communications PLC.
So join Asika for NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28 2025 at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” Register now: www.nec.ng
