Clarence Peters is one of Nigeria’s top two music video directors—and he’s not number two. Which of his iconic videos do you remember?
You can’t talk about music video directors in Nigeria—or even Africa—without mentioning Clarence Peters. There was a time when nearly every Nigerian A-lister’s visuals came from his lens. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the look and feel of Afrobeats music videos, setting the standard for creativity and storytelling.
If you’ve ever vibed to a Nigerian hit and found yourself just as captivated by the visuals as the music, chances are Clarence Peters was behind it. A true legend in the industry, he transforms songs into cinematic experiences that linger long after the track fades.
Here’s a look at 10 of his best works—videos that brought the heat, told compelling stories and left a lasting impact.
1. Davido – Dami Duro
When Davido dropped Dami Duro, it was a mega statement. Clarence Peters took that energy and ran with it, crafting a video that’s all about celebration. The visuals are bright, loud, and mirror the song “I’ve made it” vibe. Released during the 2012 Occupy Nigeria protests, it even picked up some political weight—former Oyo State governor Abiola Ajimobi was caught singing it in a speech. It’s a classic that won Most Gifted Newcomer Video at the Channel O Awards, and honestly, it still slaps.
2. Yemi Alade – Johnny
Yemi Alade’s Johnny is an anthem with a twist, and Clarence Peters turned it into a full-on drama. The video follows Yemi as she hunts down her cheating boyfriend, Johnny (played by Alex Ekubo), who’s juggling multiple women. It’s funny, it’s relatable, and it had this soap opera energy that keeps you watching. With over 153 million YouTube views as of early 2023, it’s the most-watched video by a female Nigerian artist. The dance scenes are fire, and there’s even a cameo from Beverly Osu.
3. Iyanya – Ur Waist
Iyanya’s “Ur Waist” is pure party fuel, and Clarence Peters knew exactly how to bring it to life. Shot at Suntan Beach in Badagry, the video had this carefree, summery feel—with Iyanya and Emma Nyra grooving by the water, all smooth moves and flirty vibes. It’s simple but effective, leaning hard into the song’s danceable beat and that catchy hook about, well, a woman’s waist. Nominated for Best Pop Single at The Headies in 2013, it’s one of those videos that makes you want to get up and move.
4. Wizkid – Ojuelegba
Wizkid’s “Ojuelegba” is a love letter to his roots, and Clarence turned it into something raw and real. The video feels like a mini-documentary, showing the gritty streets of Lagos’ Ojuelegba neighborhood—Ayilara and Itire roads make an appearance—mixed with shots of Wizkid. It’s less flashy and more heartfelt, capturing that hustle-to-success story that resonates with so many. This song hit number one on Capital Xtra’s Afrobeats Chart in 2015 and is a time capsule of Wizkid before he went global.
5. Olamide – Durosoke
Olamide’s “Durosoke” isn’t your typical club banger video, and that’s why it stands out. Clarence went for something different here—a quirky, almost offbeat storyline that ditches the usual party scenes for something tied to the song’s Yoruba lyrics of Olamide’s own world. It’s hard to pin down exactly what’s going on, but that’s part of the charm. The video snagged Best Afro Hip Hop Video at the 2013 Nigeria Music Video Awards, proving Peters could switch it up and still deliver a hit.
6. P-Square – Personally
P-Square’s “Personally” is their big shoutout to Michael Jackson, and Clarence leaned all the way in. The video employed MJ-inspired dance moves, slick outfits, and even a cameo from Nollywood’s Osita Iheme for some extra flair. Shot in Lagos with a hefty budget, it’s a polished tribute that celebrates how MJ shaped the duo’s sound. It topped MTV Base’s Official Naija Top 10 Chart and got a nod for Song of the Year at the 2014 MTV Africa Music Awards. If you’re into nostalgia with a Nigerian twist, you might want to rewatch this music video.
7. Tiwa Savage – Eminado
Tiwa Savage’s “Eminado” is a love anthem and Clarence Peters brought that scenery to the screen. Nominated for Hottest Single of the Year at the 2014 Nigeria Entertainment Awards, it peaked at number two on MTV Base’s chart.
8. Naeto C– 5 & 6
Naeto C’s 5 & 6 is one of those sleeper hits that doesn’t get enough credit, and Peters gave it a video that’s just as underrated. The visuals to this song stick with you, keeping it fresh in fans’ minds. It’s not as flashy as some others on this list, but it definitely has that chill, replayable quality that makes it a quiet standout.
9. May D – Sound Track
May D’s Sound Track was his big debut under Square Records, and Clarence made sure it popped. The music video had a narrative edge, revealing May D’s alluring lyrics with very sensual sceneries. It’s a key piece of May D’s early story, and Clarence’s direction gave it that extra push.
10. Burna Boy – Run My Race
Burna Boy’s Run My Race came out when he was still grinding under Aristokrat Records, and Clarence captured that hungry, driven spirit. It sold 40,000 copies on day one, a sign of things to come for the future Grammy winner.
