In the bustling streets of Lagos, a melodic screech echoed through the crowds: ‘Nawa O!’ With a plastic container of savoury snacks on his head, Alax Evalsam serenaded passersby with his signature tune. The irresistible slang has turned an ordinary fish pie entrepreneur into a viral sensation in Nigeria.
On June 3, Alax posted a video of him singing while hawking his fish pies on his TikTok page. In the footage, he could be heard singing: “Nawa o, some people dem too do oh, nawa o. Fish pieeee”. The video has raked in over 16 million views, 1.6 million likes, 35,000 comments, 92,000 saves and more than 116,000 shares on TikTok — as of the time of this report.
Another video of Alax promoting his pastries was shared on August 16. The video has been viewed nearly 18 million times.
His rise to fame can be largely attributed to his playful personality and the infectious slogan ‘Nawa O’ — often used to express surprise or disbelief. Alax started producing content showcasing his cooking skills and enthusiastic character, reflecting his passion for work even in challenging circumstances.
The fish pie seller, who has ventured into content creation, now has over 880,000 followers on TikTok and 41,000 on Instagram.
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SUPPORT FROM CELEBRITIES
As Alax’s popularity grows, so does the attention he is getting from notable figures in the entertainment industry. Tunde Ednut, the celebrity blogger, shared videos of Alax hawking meat pie on his Instagram page.
There were reports that the award-winning singer Davido gifted Alax some money — a claim he denied.
“People said Davido gave me money and car, but it’s a lie. Please don’t believe them. See my house now, if he gave me money and car I wouldn’t be in this house,” he said.
“I’m even hoping that I will receive that kind of support. I’m hoping and praying that God will send someone to help me. I will be the happiest person to leave here for a better place.”
Nons Miraj, the skit maker, also shared a video of her visiting Alax at his home in the slums. To improve his living situation, she helped him move into a rented apartment and also gifted him N200,000.
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Recently, the food seller took another significant step by signing a deal with Eko Hotels and Suites. The partnership requires him to perform as a stand-up comedian in one of Nigeria’s most prestigious hotels.
“Congratulations to me. I just got an endorsement with a five star hotel, Eko Hotels and Suites. Thank you all for your support,” he said on Instagram.
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Alax has become a cultural reference point, symbolising the power of creativity and determination.
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