An Abuja-based research institute, Africa Polling Institute (API) has listed popular comedians Broda Shaggi, Mark Angel Comedy, Mr. Macaroni, and Taaooma as Nigeria’s top skit comedians and digital content creators.

Lasisi Elenu, MC Casino, Nedu Mallam Musa, Woli Agba, Omo Ibadan and Bosho also made the top ten list.

The Executive Director of the institute, Bell Chua, who disclosed this while addressing newsmen in Abuja, said that the findings were derived from a survey that sampled opinions of no fewer than 1,521 Nigerians.

According to him, the survey which was conducted between October and November 2020, was done using a stratified random sampling technique in selecting the respondents.

He added that the report, titled “Skit Economy: An Assessment of Digital Content Creators in Nigeria”, sought the views of Nigerians regarding the rise of comedy skits, their viewership, and who they considered their top skit comedians in the country.

The executive director noted that the study represented a novel attempt to understand ‘a seemingly under-research space’, which had so far contributed to the economic growth of the nation and the mental wellbeing of citizens.

“From the study, we found out that 67 percent of Nigerians say they watch comedy skits, with 45 percent saying they watch them once in a while and 29 percent a few times a week.

“65 percent of Nigerians consider comedy skits funny and entertaining, while 20 percent consider them quite informative.

“An average of 88 percent of Nigerians agree that comedy skits are useful in creating awareness on social trends, correcting societal ills, and creating job opportunities,” he said.

Mr. Ihua added that the study also sampled the views of some skit comedians and producers. He said the findings revealed that the lack of financial assistance from the government and private sector were identified as key issues bedeviling the growth of the sector.

According to him, other factors include; high cost of production, poor electricity, and excessive taxes on social media platforms.

“Skit comedians, however, urge the government and private sector to support them, in order for Nigeria to reap the benefits of showcasing the country’s talents, as well as alleviating poverty through the creation of wealth and jobs,” he said.