Bela.’s Biography, Wikipedia, Age, Career, Family, and Music

Marvelous Ojo Obanijesu (born c. 2002–2003), professionally known as Bela. or Bela., the creator, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, creative director, and fashion innovator. Known for his blend of Afrobeats, Alternative Afrobeats, and poetic lyricism, Bela. has quickly emerged as a unique voice in Nigeria’s evolving music landscape. He gained prominence with the joint mixtape Lagos & IB. (2024) with Rómi, the experimental project Songs That’ll Never Drop (2025), and his feature on JaceBen’s single PRE$$URE (2025).

PERSONAL DETAILS

Marvelous Ojo Obanijesu

Early Life and Family

Marvelous Ojo Obanijesu was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, as the first child of Olumuyiwa and Olukemi Ojo. Raised alongside siblings Covenant, Holiness, and Purity, Bela. grew up in a household that valued both education and creativity. As the eldest child, he naturally developed leadership instincts that shaped his approach to artistry and collaboration.

His parents’ consistent encouragement gave him the confidence to pursue a career beyond traditional expectations, fueling his early explorations in literature, performance, and music.

Education

Bela. attended Miracle International Nursery and Primary School in Ibadan before moving on to Living Miracle High School. His fascination with literature and performance became evident early, driving his decision to study English and Literary Studies at Anchor University, Lagos, where he graduated in 2024.

In 2025, he began his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year, initially posted to Kaduna but later redeployed to Ogun State. He has balanced service commitments with music releases and fashion ventures, symbolizing his dedication to multidimensional creativity.

Musical Career

Beginnings

Bela.’s musical instincts developed during adolescence, when he experimented with lyrics, rhythms, and spontaneous performances. His years in Ibadan nurtured a soulful grounding, while moving to Lagos expanded his exposure to Nigeria’s dynamic music environment.

He often emphasizes the role of collaboration in his growth, particularly with close creative partner Oluwarominiyi Owolabi (Rómi), with whom he has crafted much of his catalog.

Breakthrough and Projects

• Lagos & IB. (Dec 2024): Bela. and Rómi’s joint mixtape bridged Lagos’ restless drive with Ibadan’s grounded energy. Its reception led to a Deluxe Edition in 2025, expanding its reach.

• Songs That’ll Never Drop (July 2025): A surprise 10-track joint project with Rómi that defied industry conventions. It resonated with fans for its raw intimacy and experimental freedom.

• PRE$$URE (Aug 2025): Featured on JaceBen’s single, which recorded over 5,000 streams in its first 4 days. This collaboration expanded Bela.’s visibility beyond his core fan base.

Collaborations

Bela. has worked with Davzee, J.T.R, Bambe, and Babsss (formerly Loverboy XO), reflecting his commitment to authentic partnerships.

A major highlight came in December 2024, when Tiwa Savage invited him on Instagram Live. After an impromptu performance, she praised him, saying “You made my day”, and gifted him ₦1 million. The moment, witnessed by personalities including Poco Lee, gave Bela. national visibility.

Artistic Style and Influences

Bela.’s music blends Afrobeats and Alternative Afrobeats with experimental edge. His English degree enriches his songwriting, which is poetic, layered, and emotionally precise.

He cites:

• Fireboy DML for lyricism,

• Burna Boy for reinvention and depth,

• Ye (Kanye West) for artistic risk-taking.

Uninterested in chasing trends or algorithms, Bela. prefers to craft music that builds a community of listeners connected to his evolving creative family.

Other Creative Pursuits

• Creative Direction: Oversees music videos, visual content, and cultural projects extending beyond Nigeria.

• Fashion: His Alté-inspired fashion combines streetwear with bold experimentation.

  • Collaborated with ANTGN, a label owned by Rómi.

  • Co-designed ANTGN’s debut release.

  • Currently developing Blox., his own brand that fuses fashion and storytelling.

Personal Life

Now in his early twenties, Bela. continues to balance music, fashion, and NYSC obligations. He splits his time between Ibadan and Lagos, remaining deeply rooted in family while expanding his influence across Nigeria’s creative industries.

Fans and peers alike regard him not only as a musician but as “Bela., the creator”—a multidimensional figure committed to building a creative universe that spans music, writing, fashion, and culture.

Discography (Selected)

• Lagos & IB. — Mixtape (Dec 2024) [with Rómi]

• Lagos & IB. (Deluxe Edition) — Mixtape (2025) [with Rómi]

• Songs That’ll Never Drop — Project (July 13, 2025) [with Rómi]

• PRE$$URE — Single (Aug 25, 2025) [with JaceBen]

Media Coverage and Public Image

Bela. has been profiled by lifestyle and music platforms as a rising force in Nigeria’s Alté and Afrobeats scene. His multidisciplinary approach—spanning songwriting, performance, creative direction, and fashion—has earned him a reputation as a cultural builder rather than a conventional performer.

His online persona, under the handle @thatbela, doubles as a creative platform where he shares music, fashion concepts, and community-driven content.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Bela. is preparing to release “This Might Confuse You” in late 2025. With continued collaborations (notably with Rómi) and expanding ventures in fashion, he is poised to become one of the most compelling young figures shaping Nigeria’s music and creative culture in the coming years.