American YouTube sensation iShowSpeed (Darren Watkins Jr.) livestreams high-energy debut in Nigeria’s commercial capital during “Speed Does Africa” tour, captivating millions with raw street encounters and cultural immersion.
Global streamer iShowSpeed touched down in Lagos and immediately hit the streets for a live broadcast as part of his ambitious 28-day “Speed Does Africa” tour across 20 countries, which began December 29, 2025.
Starting in a convoy through bustling Lagos Island streets while wearing a Nigerian football jersey and waving through the sunroof, he quickly drew enormous crowds of excited fans, traders, and youths who ran alongside the vehicle shouting “show the love,” “money,” and filming on their phones.
Within minutes, swelling crowds prompted security interventions, forcing a temporary stream pause as Speed took cover inside a nearby shop for safety. At the crowded Balogun Market, he was surrounded by people asking for money and heckling.
Surprised by the interactions, he remarked, “What are they saying? It’s like they’re speaking English, but a different kind of English,” before exiting promptly with his bodyguards.
Highlights of the day included an emotional encounter with schoolchildren who spontaneously sang “Happy Birthday” to the streamer, turning 21 that day.
At historic Freedom Park (built on a former prison site), he sampled Nigerian jollof rice for the first time and reacted enthusiastically: “I am not gonna lie, this is good. I think I might have to go with Nigeria.” He also visited the renowned Nike Art Gallery in Lekki, where he was welcomed with traditional Yoruba attire and cultural greetings.
The day featured several viral moments: meeting Afrobeats star Zlatan Ibile at the ZTTW store, who surprised him with his first-ever birthday cake; a FaceTime call with Davido from Paris, during which Speed declared, “I’m in the city. I’m loving it bro. Nigeria been amazing.”
“I am here for another day”; brief interactions with Egungun of Lagos and TikTok creator Jarvis (in robot persona); and handing money to a woman and child on the street. He also noted the early evening darkness, saying, “It’s getting dark here in Nigeria. I don’t like this dark stuff.”
The stream peaked when iShowSpeed became the first Black creator to reach 50 million YouTube subscribers while live in Lagos. He celebrated by stopping the convoy, shoving his face into the birthday cake, and receiving congratulations from creators including MrBeast (who called it “halfway” to the top), Kai Cenat, Adin Ross, and KSI.
Despite occasional chaos and security concerns, including a warning after he unknowingly participated in a local gang greeting the atmosphere was one of high energy, cultural exchange, and genuine hospitality. Speed engaged with locals, danced briefly, and expressed excitement about returning for another day.
The broadcast drew millions of concurrent viewers worldwide, showcasing Lagos’ vibrant street life, food, music, and people to a global audience.
Public reactions in Nigeria have been largely positive, with many praising the exposure of local culture while others noted it highlighted everyday realities and potential for improvement.
Speed is expected to continue his Lagos activities and tour stops in West Africa in the coming days.