Zlatan Ibile reveals he drove night cab to survive

Zlatan Ibile reveals he drove a night cab with his talent show car to survive tough school days before fame and Olamide’s life-changing collaboration

Zlatan Ibile has opened up about the financial struggles he faced before stardom, recounting how he used the car he won from a music competition as a nighttime taxi to make ends meet while studying at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta.

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In a candid chat with popular streamer Shank Comics, the Zanku crooner shared how hardship pushed him to improvise during his student years despite early success in the Airtel One Mic Talent Show.

“Back in school, when there was no money for food, I would just wait till night and use the car I won from the Airtel One Mic Talent show to run cab from Abeokuta to Shagamu for ₦350,” Zlatan Ibile recalled with a laugh.

He explained that, although the talent show victory gave him some visibility, it did not immediately translate into financial stability. The young artiste had to balance his education, dreams of fame, and the daily hustle of survival.

Zlatan’s major breakthrough came in 2017 with his hit single My Body, featuring ace rapper Olamide, a collaboration he has repeatedly described as life-changing.

In a previous interview, the Zanku Music boss said Olamide’s support helped open the industry’s doors for him. “That verse changed everything for me,” he said, crediting the YBNL founder for playing a pivotal role in his rise.

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Now one of Nigeria’s most energetic performers, Zlatan Ibile often reflects on his journey from struggling student to household name — a story that resonates with young Nigerians chasing success through resilience and self-belief.