Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori biography reveals Kiekie’s journey from TV host to AMVCA-winning comedian, her marriage to Tunji Ilori, and $900,000 net worth.

Who is Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori?

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, widely celebrated by her stage name Kiekie, is a Nigerian television personality, content creator, comedian, actress, fashion entrepreneur, and brand influencer who has revolutionised digital entertainment in Nigeria.

The Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori biography begins on 20 June 1990, when she was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Now 34 years old, Kiekie has transformed from a fashion stylist and TV host into one of Africa’s most influential online content creators, commanding a social media following of over 4 million on Instagram alone.

Kiekie is renowned for her hilarious comedy skits that humorously depict everyday Nigerian experiences, particularly the frustrating encounters with local tailors. Her unique ability to blend fashion, humour, and relatable content has earned her multiple prestigious awards, including the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) for Best Online Social Content Creator.

Beyond entertainment, Bukunmi is a successful entrepreneur and the founder of Accost Collection, a Lagos-based women’s fashion brand specialising in elegant clothing and bridal wear. She is married to Tunji Ilori, and together they welcomed their first child, Oluwashonaolami, in 2022.

With an estimated net worth between $700,000 and $900,000, Kiekie has established herself as a powerhouse in Nigerian entertainment, seamlessly balancing roles as a comedian, actress, event host, brand ambassador, and businesswoman.

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori Profile Summary

Personal Information	Details
Full Name	Oluwabukunmi Adeaga-Ilori
Stage Name	Kiekie
Date of Birth	20 June 1990
Age	34 years old (as of 2025)
Place of Birth	Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
State of Origin	Oyo State
Nationality	Nigerian
Tribe/Ethnicity	Yoruba
Religion	Christianity
Occupation	Comedian, Content Creator, TV Host, Actress, Fashion Entrepreneur, Brand Influencer
Years Active	2015–present
Education	B.Sc. Mass Communication (Bowen University); Master’s in Marketing (London School of Business and Finance); Fashion Training (London College of Fashion)
Husband	Tunji Ilori
Marriage Date	February 2020
Children	1 (Oluwashonaolami, born 2022)
Net Worth	Estimated $700,000–$900,000
Business	Founder & CEO of Accost Collection
Major Award	AMVCA 2023 Best Online Social Content Creator
Instagram	@kie_kie__ (4M+ followers)
YouTube	Kiekie TV (280,000+ subscribers)
Twitter (X)	@iamkiekie_
Famous Catchphrase	“Problem!”

Early Life and Family Background

Oluwabukunmi Adeaga-Ilori was born on 20 June 1990 in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State, Nigeria. She grew up in Ibadan, where she spent her formative years immersed in Yoruba culture and traditions.

Family Structure and Upbringing

Kiekie is the last born child of her family, a position that came with its privileges. In interviews, she has spoken fondly about being pampered by both her parents and older siblings, describing her childhood as “really exciting”.

Growing up as the youngest child shaped her personality, contributing to the vivacious, lively character that her fans adore today. The love and attention she received from her family gave her confidence and the freedom to explore her creative interests from an early age.

Early Interest in Performance

From secondary school, Bukunmi displayed a natural inclination towards performance and entertainment. She was actively involved in:

• Dancing competitions
• Drama team productions
• Choir performances
• Playing musical instruments

These early experiences in the performing arts laid the foundation for her future career in entertainment. The stage became a comfortable space for her, and she developed the confidence to express herself creatively in front of audiences.

Cultural Influences

Growing up in Ibadan, a city rich in Yoruba culture, Kiekie was exposed to traditional customs, language, and social dynamics. These influences are evident in her content, where she frequently uses Yoruba language mixed with Pidgin English—a combination that resonates deeply with Nigerian audiences.

Her understanding of Nigerian culture, particularly the experiences of everyday Nigerians, would later become the cornerstone of her comedy and content creation.

Education and Academic Pursuits

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori’s educational journey reflects her diverse interests in communication, marketing, and fashion.

Primary and Secondary Education

Kiekie attended private primary and secondary schools in Ibadan, where she received quality education. Her participation in cultural activities and drama during these years indicated her future path, even though she was still exploring different interests.

University Education: Bowen University

In pursuit of higher education, Bukunmi attended Bowen University in Iwo, Osun State, one of Nigeria’s respected private universities. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communication.

Her choice to study Mass Communication was deliberate—she had always wanted to work in the media space. The programme equipped her with:

• Communication theories and principles
• Media production techniques
• Public relations skills
• Broadcasting fundamentals
• Content creation strategies

During her time at Bowen University, Kiekie began to fully exhibit her fashion interests. The university environment allowed her to explore her sense of style, which would later become integral to her brand.

Further Education in London

After completing her first degree, Bukunmi’s quest for knowledge took her to London, where she pursued two distinct educational paths:

Master’s Degree in Marketing from the London School of Business and Finance. This qualification, as she later remarked, proved prescient—”as though I had seen to the future that I was going to become a brand influencer someday.” The programme provided her with:

• Strategic marketing knowledge
• Brand management skills
• Digital marketing expertise
• Consumer behaviour understanding

Fashion Training at the London College of Fashion, one of the world’s premier fashion institutions. Here, she specialised in:

• Tailoring techniques
• Couture design
• Pattern making
• Fashion styling

This combination of communication, marketing, and fashion education created a unique skill set that would distinguish Kiekie in Nigeria’s competitive entertainment landscape.

Career Journey: From Fashion to Fame

Early Career in Fashion (2015)

The Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori biography shows a career that began in fashion rather than comedy. After returning to Nigeria from her studies, she started working as a fashion stylist, collaborating with well-known Nigerian fashion brands.

Her training from the London College of Fashion, combined with her natural eye for style, quickly earned her recognition in the industry. She understood fashion not just as clothing, but as a form of self-expression and storytelling.

Television Debut: GoldMyne TV (2015)

In 2015, Bukunmi made her first major breakthrough in television when she joined GoldMyne TV. She was hired as a host and producer for a fashion TV show.

Her lively charisma and deep knowledge of fashion made her a viewer favourite. This role gave her invaluable experience in:

• On-camera presenting
• Television production
• Connecting with audiences
• Discussing fashion trends professionally

ONTV and “Style Street”

Kiekie’s television career continued to blossom when she joined ONTV (later Spice TV), where she anchored “Style Street”, a programme dedicated to analysing fashion trends and styles.

“Style Street” showcased her expertise in dissecting fashion, discussing designers, and elevating conversations around style and elegance. The show positioned her as a credible voice in Nigeria’s fashion industry.

Transition to Content Creation (2014-2017)

Whilst working in television, Kiekie began experimenting with creating her own content. Between 2014 and 2017, she produced fashion-focused shows:

• “Style It With Kiekie”
• “Style Connect”
• “Style Network”

These were content series tailored specifically to fashion, where she shared style tips, trend analyses, and fashion commentary. However, something unexpected began happening—viewers consistently commented that she was naturally funny.

“A lot of people who watched the show would come up to me and say, from the way I speak, I am very funny. How about me doing more in that space?” she recalled in an interview.

The Comedy Breakthrough

Taking this feedback to heart, Kiekie started incorporating humour into her content. She began creating what she called “Kiekie bants”—humorous takes on everyday situations, delivered in her unique style.

Her first viral video came with a skit about tailors (locally called “Mokalik” in Yoruba). The video resonated powerfully with Nigerians who had endured frustrating experiences with local tailors—delayed deliveries, style deviations, and unfulfilled promises.

“That was indeed how I was able to confirm that being original to me is that one thing that will sell me,” Kiekie said of this breakthrough moment.

COVID-19 and Career Acceleration (2020)

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns in 2020 proved to be a turning point. With more people online and seeking entertainment, Kiekie significantly increased her comedy content production.

She posted more “Kiekie bants” skits, and audiences fell deeply in love with her character and persona. Her relatable humour, delivered in a mix of Yoruba and Pidgin English, struck a chord with millions of Nigerians experiencing similar situations.

Her signature catchphrase “Problem!” (usually exclaimed at the end of her skits) became iconic, with fans adopting it in everyday conversations.

Content Creation and Social Media Success

Content Style and Themes

Kiekie’s comedy content centres on everyday Nigerian experiences:

Tailor Frustrations: Her most famous content category features hilarious reenactments of dealings with local tailors—missed deadlines, style alterations, and excuses.

Fashion and Beauty: Humorous takes on salon visits, makeup artists, and fashion shopping experiences.

Relationships: Light-hearted skits about Nigerian relationships, gender dynamics, and family matters.

Daily Life: Relatable situations that average Nigerians encounter—from NEPA (electricity issues) to transportation challenges.

Platform Presence

Instagram (@kie_kie__): Over 4 million followers, making her one of Nigeria’s most-followed content creators

YouTube (Kiekie TV): Over 280,000 subscribers, featuring vlogs, comedy skits, and celebrity interviews

TikTok: Millions of followers engaging with her short-form content

Facebook: Substantial following for longer videos and updates

Twitter/X (@iamkiekie_): Active engagement with fans and commentary on trending topics

Collaboration with Fellow Creators

Kiekie’s comedic talent shines through collaborations with popular Nigerian creators, including:

• Broda Shaggi
• Mr Macaroni
• Lasisi Elenu
• Craze Clown

These collaborations have produced viral content and expanded her reach across different audience segments.

Inspiration and Creative Process

When asked about her inspiration, Kiekie explains: “As a content creator, I am inspired by almost everything around me—people, location, occurrences, excitement, everything excites me. I always say to people: everything around you is content; it is left for you to decide which one you are pushing and which one you are not.”

Her ability to transform ordinary experiences into engaging content is her superpower. She observes Nigerian life closely and presents it back to audiences with humour and authenticity.

Acting Career in Nollywood

Beyond social media, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori has ventured successfully into Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry.

Notable Film Appearances

“Simple Lie”: Featured in this Nollywood production, showcasing her acting versatility

“Ile Owo”: Delivered a compelling performance in lead supporting role

LOL Naija (Prime Video): Appeared in this international streaming release, expanding her reach beyond Nigerian shores

Her transition from comedy skits to full-length films demonstrates her range as a performer. Directors and producers appreciate her natural screen presence and ability to deliver both comedic and dramatic moments.

Acting Style

Kiekie brings the same authenticity to acting that defines her comedy. She doesn’t overact or force emotions, instead delivering performances that feel genuine and relatable.

Event Hosting and Live Performances

Kiekie’s influence extends far beyond screens—she has become one of Nigeria’s most sought-after event hosts.

Major Events Hosted

Stacked December: Official host for this annual entertainment event

Wizkid’s Vibes on the Beach: Commanded the stage at this major concert

Burna Boy Live: Hosted performances by the Grammy-winning artist

Timeless Night with Davido: Anchored this high-profile concert

Corporate Events: Hosts numerous brand launches, fashion shows, and corporate gatherings

Hosting Style

Her ability to connect with live audiences, read the room, and maintain energy throughout events has earned her recognition as one of the most engaging hosts in Nigerian entertainment. She combines humour with professionalism, making events both entertaining and well-organised.

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori Biography: Awards and Recognition

Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) 2023

Kiekie’s biggest honour came at the 2023 AMVCA, where she won Best Online Social Content Creator alongside Elozonam Ogbolu for their collaborative work “Back From The Future”.

The AMVCA is Africa’s most prestigious film and television awards ceremony, making this recognition particularly significant. Kiekie’s win acknowledged her contribution to elevating digital content creation in Nigeria.

Other Major Awards

Trendupp Awards 2022: Won “The Force of Instagram”, recognising her as the influencer with the most engaging content

Pulse NG Awards 2023: YouTube Creator of the Year

Forbes Africa 2024: Top Content Creator of the Year

Trendupp Awards 2024: Force of Influence

City People Awards: Multiple nominations and wins

Naija FM Comedy Jam Awards: Recognition for online sensation

Industry Recognition

Beyond formal awards, Kiekie receives constant recognition from:

• Fellow entertainers who acknowledge her influence
• Brands that partner with her for campaigns
• Fans who celebrate her authenticity
• Media outlets that feature her work regularly

Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship

Accost Collection

Bukunmi is the founder and CEO of Accost Collection, a Lagos-based fashion brand specialising in women’s wear and bridal pieces.

The brand reflects Kiekie’s bold and stylish personality, offering:

• Contemporary women’s fashion
• Elegant bridal designs
• Custom tailoring services
• Ready-to-wear collections

Accost Collection has gained a loyal customer base, with many clients attracted by Kiekie’s fashion credibility and the quality of the brand’s offerings.

Brand Ambassador Partnerships

Kiekie has secured lucrative endorsement deals with major Nigerian and international brands:

• Tecno Mobile: Major technology brand partnership
• Marigold Beauty: Cosmetics and beauty products
• Hush’D Makeovers: Beauty services
• Ruba Beauty: Beauty brand ambassador
• Smirnoff: Beverage partnership
• Flawless Elegance: Fashion and lifestyle
• Perfection Real Estate Group: Real estate ambassador

These partnerships significantly contribute to her income and expand her influence across multiple industries.

“The Kiekie Unscripted Experience” (2025)

In February 2025, Kiekie launched her highly anticipated show, “The Kiekie Unscripted Experience”. The programme blends:

• Talent showcases
• Interactive games
• Celebrity interviews
• Audience participation

The show has further cemented her influence in Nigerian entertainment, demonstrating her versatility beyond social media content.

Kiekie TV and Podcast

Her YouTube channel, Kiekie TV, features:

• Comedy skits
• Fashion and lifestyle vlogs
• Discussions of social issues with humour
• Behind-the-scenes content

She also runs a podcast where she interviews Nigerian celebrities, discussing various topics from their careers to personal experiences. Notable guests have included superstar musician Davido.

Personal Life: Marriage and Motherhood

Marriage to Tunji Ilori

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori married Tunji Ilori in February 2020. For years, she kept her marriage extremely private, rarely sharing details or showing her husband’s face publicly.

Defending her decision in an interview with Punch newspaper, Kiekie explained: “I respect the privacy of my family and marriage, and I do my best to show them to the barest minimum. Just the basic things when it’s necessary; maybe birthdays and anniversaries. The little one shares, the better.”

This privacy strategy helped her maintain boundaries between her public persona and personal life.

Revealing Her Husband’s Face

In September 2022, during her maternity shoot and baby shower, Kiekie finally revealed her husband Tunji Ilori’s face to her fans and followers. The revelation came as part of her pregnancy announcement and celebration.

Fans were thrilled to finally see the man who had remained mysterious for years, and the couple’s photos from the maternity shoot garnered massive engagement on social media.

Motherhood Journey

In 2022, Kiekie announced her pregnancy in a creative and musical way. She shared a video showcasing her growing baby bump whilst singing a beautiful dedication song to her unborn child.

She revealed her child’s name as Oluwashonaolami (meaning “God has crowned me with wealth” in Yoruba). The song was filled with prayers, wishing her child a stress-free life and a peaceful, fulfilled future.

She hosted an elaborate baby shower in the United States with family and friends in attendance, sharing stunning photos from the celebration.

Her journey into motherhood added a new dimension to her content, as she occasionally shares motherhood experiences whilst maintaining privacy about her child’s image.

Balancing Fame and Family

Kiekie has successfully balanced her demanding career with family life. She credits her family’s understanding of the entertainment industry for making things easier.

Unlike some families who might not understand irregular schedules and constant work commitments, Kiekie’s family supports her career fully, allowing her to thrive professionally without sacrificing family relationships.

Financial Success and Net Worth

Estimated Net Worth

As of 2025, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori’s net worth is estimated between $700,000 and $900,000 (approximately ₦630 million to ₦810 million at current exchange rates).

This places her amongst Nigeria’s highest-earning content creators and solidifies her status as one of the richest female skit makers in the country.

Income Sources

Kiekie’s wealth derives from multiple revenue streams:

1. Content Creation: Earnings from social media platforms (Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook)

2. Brand Endorsements: Lucrative deals with major brands across various industries

3. Event Hosting: Fees from hosting concerts, corporate events, and entertainment programmes

4. Acting: Income from Nollywood films and international streaming productions

5. Business (Accost Collection): Revenue from her fashion brand

6. “The Kiekie Unscripted Experience”: Income from her television show

7. Sponsored Content: Paid partnerships and promotional posts on social media

Financial Management

With a Master’s degree in Marketing from the London School of Business and Finance, Kiekie possesses the business acumen to manage her finances strategically. She diversifies her income, invests in her business, and builds sustainable revenue streams beyond temporary fame.

Public Image and Influence

Personality and Character

Kiekie is celebrated for her:

• Authenticity: She remains true to herself, never pretending to be someone she’s not
• Vivacious Energy: Her lively personality is infectious and draws people in
• Humility: Despite fame, she maintains a down-to-earth approach
• Professionalism: Balances fun with serious work ethic
• Fashion Sense: Always stylish and trendsetting

Handling Social Media Trolls

When asked about dealing with online negativity, Kiekie has a healthy perspective: “Social media trolls do not exist in my space. I just feel like these are human beings who are trying to get as much attention as possible, and I’m not up for it. If I have 3,000 comments saying ‘Go Kiekie, Go’, that means the world to me. If 20 people are speaking negatively or otherwise, I’m definitely not listening.”

This focus on positive engagement over negative attention has protected her mental health and allowed her to thrive online.

Influence on Nigerian Entertainment

Kiekie represents a new generation of Nigerian entertainers who:

• Build careers primarily through digital platforms
• Monetise content creation effectively
• Balance multiple roles (comedian, host, actress, entrepreneur)
• Leverage social media for brand building
• Create relatable content that reflects authentic Nigerian experiences

She has inspired countless aspiring content creators, particularly women, showing that it’s possible to build a successful, lucrative career through creativity and consistency.

Controversies and Challenges

Funke Akindele Controversy (2022)

In June 2022, Kiekie faced accusations of mocking Nollywood actress Funke Akindele-Bello over her failed marriage. The controversy generated significant online discussion.

Addressing the allegations, Kiekie emphasised the importance of respecting others’ privacy and maintaining integrity in opinions shared online. She clarified her position and the misunderstanding was eventually resolved.

This incident remains the most notable controversy in her otherwise relatively scandal-free career.

The Seven-Year Journey

In interviews, Kiekie has been candid about the challenges she faced before achieving fame. “It took me seven years to gain the spotlight,” she revealed.

These seven years involved:

• Working consistently without recognition
• Building skills across multiple areas
• Investing in education and training
• Facing rejection and setbacks
• Staying committed to her vision

Her openness about this struggle inspires others to persevere through difficult periods.

Legacy and Impact

Pioneering Digital Content in Nigeria

Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori is amongst the first wave of Nigerian content creators who carved out space for themselves in the entertainment industry without traditional gatekeepers.

Her success demonstrates that:

• Social media can be a legitimate career path
• Authenticity resonates more than polished perfection
• Nigerian stories told by Nigerians connect powerfully with audiences
• Multiple talents can be combined into a cohesive brand

Empowering Women in Entertainment

As a successful female content creator, entrepreneur, and entertainment figure, Kiekie serves as a role model for young Nigerian women. She proves that women can:

• Build thriving entertainment careers
• Run successful businesses
• Command respect in male-dominated spaces
• Balance career and family life

Setting Industry Standards

Through her professionalism, creativity, and consistency, Kiekie has helped elevate standards for content creation in Nigeria. She demonstrates that online content can be high-quality, thoughtful, and professionally produced whilst remaining relatable and authentic.

Conclusion

The Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori biography illustrates a journey of passion, perseverance, and strategic vision. From a young girl performing in secondary school drama productions in Ibadan to becoming one of Africa’s most influential digital personalities, Kiekie’s story is truly inspiring.

Her unique combination of education (Mass Communication, Marketing, Fashion), natural talent, and authentic personality created the perfect foundation for success in Nigeria’s digital age. She didn’t just ride trends—she helped create them.

At 34 years old with a net worth approaching $1 million, multiple awards including an AMVCA, a thriving fashion business, and a devoted family, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori has achieved what many only dream of. Yet she remains grounded, grateful, and committed to creating content that brings joy to millions.

Her marriage to Tunji Ilori and motherhood journey with Oluwashonaolami add depth to her public persona, showing that success in entertainment doesn’t require sacrificing personal happiness.

Kiekie’s legacy extends beyond entertainment—she represents the power of being unapologetically yourself, the importance of education and continuous learning, and the possibility of building an empire from creativity and authenticity.

As she continues evolving with “The Kiekie Unscripted Experience” and expanding her influence across multiple platforms, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori remains a trailblazer, inspiring the next generation of Nigerian entertainers whilst keeping millions laughing with her signature “Problem!” catchphrase.

FAQs About Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori Biography

Q1: How old is Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kiekie)?
Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori was born on 20 June 1990, making her 34 years old as of 2025. She will turn 35 in June 2025.

Q2: What is Kiekie’s net worth?
Kiekie’s net worth is estimated between $700,000 and $900,000 (approximately ₦630-810 million), earned through content creation, brand endorsements, event hosting, acting, and her fashion business Accost Collection.

Q3: Who is Kiekie’s husband?
Kiekie is married to Tunji Ilori. They got married in February 2020 and welcomed their first child, Oluwashonaolami, in 2022.

Q4: What is Kiekie’s real name?
Kiekie’s real name is Oluwabukunmi Adeaga-Ilori. “Kiekie” is her stage name and the brand she built her career around.

Q5: What awards has Kiekie won?
Kiekie’s major awards include: AMVCA 2023 Best Online Social Content Creator (with Elozonam Ogbolu), Trendupp Awards 2022 (Force of Instagram), Pulse NG Awards 2023 (YouTube Creator of the Year), and Forbes Africa 2024 (Top Content Creator of the Year).

Q6: What business does Kiekie own?
Kiekie owns Accost Collection, a Lagos-based fashion brand specialising in women’s wear and elegant bridal pieces. She also runs Kiekie TV on YouTube and “The Kiekie Unscripted Experience” show.

Q7: Where did Kiekie study?
Kiekie studied Mass Communication at Bowen University, Osun State. She also earned a Master’s degree in Marketing from the London School of Business and Finance, and received fashion training in tailoring, couture, and pattern making from the London College of Fashion.

Q8: When did Kiekie start her career?
Kiekie started her professional career in 2015 as a TV host and producer at GoldMyne TV. She began creating comedy content around 2017-2018, with her breakthrough coming during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.

Q9: Does Kiekie have children?
Yes, Kiekie has one child named Oluwashonaolami, born in 2022 with her husband Tunji Ilori.

Q10: What is Kiekie famous for?
Kiekie is famous for her hilarious comedy skits about everyday Nigerian experiences, particularly her relatable content about frustrating encounters with local tailors. She’s also known for her catchphrase “Problem!” and her seamless blend of comedy with fashion content.