If you are reading this on January 28, 2026, you have just missed the main event by exactly 24 hours. But don’t worry—the festivities, the music drops, and the social media tributes are still lighting up the internet.
In this detailed guide, we cover everything you need to know about Bella Shmurda’s birth date, his age in 2026, his journey from Lagos State University (LASU) to global stardom, and how the President of the Dangbana Republik celebrates his special day.
The Short Answer: When Is Bella Shmurda Birthday?
Bella Shmurda was born on January 27.
He celebrates his birthday annually on this date. As of his most recent celebration yesterday (January 27, 2026), the street-hop sensation turned 29 years old (born in 1997).
His birthday has become a significant date in the Afrobeats calendar, often marked by charity works, listening parties, and the release of new sounds that define the street culture for the rest of the year.
Quick Biographical Profile
Real Name: Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi
Stage Name: Bella Shmurda
Date of Birth: January 27, 1997
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Alma Mater: Lagos State University (LASU)
Record Label: Dangbana Republik
The 2026 Birthday Celebration: What Happened Yesterday?
Because the query when is Bella Shmurda birthday is often transactional—fans want to know how to celebrate or what was released—it is vital to look at the events of January 27, 2026.
This year, Bella Shmurda took a slightly different approach. While known for his high-energy parties in exclusivity clubs on Lagos Island, his 29th birthday was marked by a blend of reflection and gratitude.
1. The Charity Outreach
True to his "man of the people" persona, Bella started his day visiting orphanages in the Okokomaiko area where he grew up. He donated food items and scholarships, reinforcing his commitment to lifting others as he climbs.
2. The Tribute to Mohbad
Since the tragic passing of his close friend and collaborator Mohbad, Bella’s birthdays have carried a poignant undertone. Yesterday, social media was awash with clips of Bella paying tribute to "Imole," ensuring that his friend's legacy remains attached to his own success.
3. The New Music Tease
It wouldn't be a Bella birthday without music. Late last night, he teased a snippet of a new track on his Instagram Live, tentatively titled "29 Lessons," which is expected to drop later this week.
From Vision 2020 to Global Icon: A Career Timeline
To understand why thousands of people search for when is Bella Shmurda birthday, you have to look at his meteoric rise. His journey is the classic "grass to grace" story that resonates deeply with Nigerian youths.
The Early Struggle and LASU Days
Born Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi in Ikorodu, Lagos, Bella had to fight for his spot. He famously combined his education at Lagos State University (LASU) with his music career. It was during his university days that he recorded the freestyle "Vision 2020."
The song went viral within the campus community, but it was the remix featuring Olamide that catapulted him into the mainstream. This co-sign from the King of the Streets was the turning point.
The "High Tension" Era
Following the success of Vision 2020, Bella proved he wasn't a one-hit wonder. His debut EP, High Tension, featured hits like "Ginger Me" and "Omnipotent." His unique voice—a blend of Fuji influence and modern pop—set him apart from his peers.
International Recognition
By the time he released "Cash App" with Zlatan and Lincoln, Bella Shmurda had become a household name. In recent years, he has toured Europe and North America, cementing his status as a global ambassador for Street Hop. For a verified look at his discography and charting history, you can check his artist profile on Apple Music.
Why The "Dangbana Republik" Matters
When discussing Bella Shmurda, you cannot ignore his label and movement, the Dangbana Republik. This isn't just a record label; it is a philosophy.
The term "Dangbana" loosely translates to a hyper-creative, sometimes chaotic, but deeply authentic state of mind. It represents the hustle of the average Nigerian youth. On his birthday, members of this fan base (Republicans) flood X (formerly Twitter) with artwork and tributes.
The Republik is also the vehicle for his philanthropy. Bella has used this platform to launch initiatives that support education and healthcare in underprivileged communities in Lagos.
The Aquarius Energy: Decoding His Personality
Bella Shmurda was born on January 27, making him an Aquarius. If you follow astrology, this explains a lot about his public persona.
Aquarians are known for being:
Rebellious: Bella challenges the status quo, from his controversial interview statements to his refusal to fit into a genre box.
Unique Fashion: His style often breaks gender norms, featuring skirts and avant-garde outfits that get people talking.
Humanitarian: As seen in his birthday charity drives, he has a deep concern for social welfare.
This astrological alignment is a key part of his brand. He isn't just trying to be different; he is naturally different.
Fashion and Controversy: The Bella Brand
Part of the intrigue that drives searches for when is Bella Shmurda birthday is his unpredictability. Bella has become a fashion icon in his own right.
From wearing skirts to major award shows to donning colorful, eccentric robes, he uses fashion as a form of expression. On his birthday yesterday, he released a photoshoot featuring a fusion of traditional Yoruba attire and futuristic streetwear, signaling his evolution as he enters his late 20s.
Note to Fans: If you are looking to copy his style, look out for his collaborations with local Nigerian designers which usually drop around his birthday week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To make this guide as helpful as possible, here are the most specific questions fans ask regarding Bella Shmurda’s personal details.
How old is Bella Shmurda in 2026?
He is 29 years old. He was born in 1997.
Is Bella Shmurda a graduate?
Yes, he is a graduate of Lagos State University (LASU), where he studied History and International Relations. He famously completed his final exams while his hit song "Vision 2020" was blowing up across the country.
What is Bella Shmurda’s net worth?
While exact figures fluctuate, he is estimated to be worth millions of Naira, with revenue streams coming from music royalties, shows, and brand endorsements. For reputable news on celebrity finance and endorsements, platforms like Pulse Nigeria often provide verified updates.
Does he share a birthday with other celebrities?
Yes, January 27 is a popular date. He shares a birthday with Patton Oswalt and Mozart, placing him in the company of creative geniuses.
What to Expect from Bella Shmurda in 2026
Now that we have answered when is Bella Shmurda birthday, the next question is: what comes next?
The year 2026 promises to be pivotal for the artist. Industry insiders suggest that a new album is in the works, likely featuring international collaborations with artists from the UK and the Caribbean.
Furthermore, there are rumors of a "Dangbana Festival"—a music festival curated by Bella himself to showcase upcoming street talent. This would be a natural progression for an artist who is so deeply connected to the grassroots.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Following his birthday, Bella is expected to announce the dates for his "Road to 30" tour. This series of concerts will likely cover major cities in Nigeria before moving to the UK and the US.
Conclusion
Bella Shmurda is more than just a musician; he is the voice of a generation that refuses to be silenced. Knowing when is Bella Shmurda birthday—January 27—helps fans connect with the timeline of a man who has grown from a university student with a dream to a global superstar.
If you missed the celebration yesterday, it is not too late to join in. Stream his music, share his art, or support the causes he cares about. As he steps into his 29th year, the "New Born Fela" shows no signs of slowing down.
Did you miss his birthday release? Don't worry. Check out our updated list of Top Afrobeats Releases to hear his latest track and other trending songs from this week!
