Chukwudi Okafor
Emerging Nigerian artist Ceeza Milli has stirred conversations by asserting his pivotal role in shaping the early career of Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr.
During a candid chat with Yanga FM Lagos, Milli revealed he first encountered Starr through a past relationship, where she was his then-girlfriend’s junior at school.
The singer-songwriter insisted he provided crucial support during Starr’s formative years, stating the Grammy-nominated star owes part of her success to his mentorship.
“I spotted Ayra’s potential long before mainstream recognition. Though I wasn’t actively scouting talent, nurturing artists fascinates me… She’d acknowledge my influence—I gave her guidance when she needed it most.
“Back then, she was still studying. Through my ex’s connection, she even stayed at my residence temporarily during that period,” Milli recounted.
📸: “I identified Ayra Starr’s talent pre-fame—witnessing artists evolve inspires me… She was my ex’s junior collegemate”👀
– Ex-Wizkid affiliate Ceeza Milli pic.twitter.com/l8EwjFqjPH
— Cliffordthatguy💐 (@ctemaugee) January 24, 2026
Starr skyrocketed to fame following her 2021 self-titled EP debut under Mavin Records, eventually becoming Nigeria’s fastest-rising female act.
Industry sources confirm Don Jazzy initiated Starr’s signing after discovering her viral music covers on Instagram in late 2019.
