Bouqui

**Bouqui: Nigerian Gospel Rapper and Pioneer** Bukola Folayan (born February 18, 1979), popularly known by her stage name Bouqui (stylized as B.O.U.Q.U.I), is a prominent Nigerian rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur. She is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of the Nigerian gospel rap movement and one of the first female rappers in the country to achieve mainstream success. Bouqui’s style is characterized by her dynamic flow, introspective lyrics, and fusion of hip-hop with African musical elements. **Early Life and Education** Bouqui was born in Nigeria, though details regarding her exact birthplace are not always specified. She grew up with a passion for music, particularly hip-hop, which later influenced her career choice. For her tertiary education, Bouqui attended Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), where she earned a degree in Mass Communication. Her commitment to education is often cited as a cornerstone of her grounded career approach. **Career Progression and Major Achievements** Bouqui began her professional music career in the early 2000s. She quickly carved out a niche for herself in the Nigerian music industry by focusing exclusively on gospel-centric hip-hop, a genre that was largely underrepresented at the time. Her breakthrough came with the release of her debut album, *B.O.U.Q.U.I*, in 2007. The album featured the hit single "Molejo," which became widely popular, securing her position as a force in the Nigerian music scene beyond the gospel circuit. Following this success, she released several other critically acclaimed albums, including *Redefinition* (2010) and *Marks of a General* (2013). Bouqui’s contributions have been recognized with several accolades. She is a multiple award winner, including receiving recognition at the Nigerian Gospel Music Awards (NGMA) and international nominations, cementing her status as a leading figure in African Christian entertainment. She is also noted for her impactful live performances and philanthropic endeavors, including youth empowerment programs. **Notable Works** Some of Bouqui’s most notable works include the singles "Molejo," "Keep on Moving," and "Sokutuyoyo." Her discography is celebrated for its high production quality and lyrical depth, addressing themes of faith, social justice, and personal resilience. Beyond her music, Bouqui has expanded her brand into entrepreneurship and media production, continuing to create content that aligns with her motivational and spiritual messages. **Current Status** Bouqui remains active in the music and media industries. She has focused increasingly on international collaborations and tours, further exporting the sound of Nigerian gospel hip-hop. Bouqui currently resides primarily in Lagos, Nigeria, while maintaining a significant presence in the global African diaspora community. She continues to release new music and serves as an influential mentor for emerging artists in the contemporary African gospel scene.