Abisola Emerges Winner of BIGI Music Competition at Soundcity OnTour ABU

By Adebola Muili

Olaniyi Oluwakemi Abisola, popularly known as Abisola, has emerged winner of the BIGI Music Competition held during the 15th stop of Soundcity OnTour at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Kaduna State.

Abisola clinched the top prize after impressing the audience and judges during the BIGI Music auditions held from August 18 to 20, 2026, in a competitive showcase featuring emerging student artistes.

Moses Yakubu Ibrahim, popularly known as Bhig Moe, emerged first runner-up, while Ibrahim Yakubu Binkalim, known as Ibrahim Binkaly, finished as second runner-up.

From left: BIGI Music Competition second runner-up, Ibrahim Yakubu Binkalim (Ibrahim Binkaly); winner, Olaniyi Oluwakemi Abisola (Abisola); and first runner-up, Moses Yakubu Ibrahim (Bhig Moe), display their cash prizes after the competition at the Soundcity OnTour activation at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

The three finalists shared a cash prize of ₦1 million, with Abisola receiving ₦500,000, Bhig Moe taking home ₦350,000 and Ibrahim Binkaly winning ₦150,000.

The organisers said the BIGI Music auditions were designed not only as a competition but also as a talent-discovery platform to give young artistes an opportunity to perform before a live audience, gain visibility and take steps towards wider recognition in the Nigerian music industry.

The ABU Zaria activation marked the 15th stop of the 20-campus Soundcity OnTour, sponsored by BIGI and Fearless Energy Drink. The tour, which runs from June to October 2026, combines live music, campus entertainment, talent discovery and youth engagement.

The three-day activation featured campus engagement and build-up activities on the first day, BIGI Music auditions on the second day and the main Soundcity OnTour concert on the third day.

According to the organisers, standout performers from the various university stops will have the opportunity to progress through regional battles, with the strongest acts advancing to the national stage.

Beyond the campus cash prizes, the two eventual national winners of the BIGI Music competition are expected to receive studio production, A&R mentorship led by Bankulli, Soundcity Radio exposure and professionally produced music videos.

The Zaria concert also featured performances by Falz, Magnito, Firstklaz, Hypeman Best and DJ Dewik, among other entertainers.

Speaking on the initiative, Rite Foods Limited, makers of BIGI and Fearless Energy Drink, said the nationwide tour provides an avenue to connect with young Nigerians through music and campus culture while supporting platforms that promote emerging talents.

With 15 campuses covered, the tour will continue with its next stop at the Federal University of Agriculture, Ogun State, from September 29 to October 1, 2026.

The tour is expected to cover five more campuses before concluding in Abuja in October.