Comedian and content creator Oga Obinna has opened up about the impact of his work in the entertainment industry, revealing that he employs 34 people whose salaries total over KSh 1 million each month. His team includes a wide range of roles—among them a bodyguard, videographer, manager, editors, and more. According to Obinna, this payroll figure does not even include the additional costs of production and logistics.
The entertainer shared that some people often question why he’s always accompanied by a full team wherever he goes. In response, he emphasized that he’s not just showing off or trying to make a statement—he’s supporting livelihoods. Every member of his team plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of his personal brand and media productions.
He pointed out that his videographer, for instance, helps produce quality content that he wouldn’t be able to capture alone. This collaborative approach has allowed his team to generate compelling storylines that entertain and engage his audience across platforms.
Beyond employing his in-house team, Obinna highlighted how his projects help stimulate the wider creative economy. He explained that whenever he hires external equipment, venues, or support for video shoots and other productions, he indirectly creates work for many more individuals. These include lighting technicians, directors of photography, makeup artists, costume designers, dancers, extras, and more. A single music video production, for example, can engage over 50 different professionals.
Even when income is inconsistent, Obinna revealed that he prioritizes his staff’s salaries—sometimes sacrificing his own earnings to make sure they are paid. He sees his role not just as an artist but also as a provider. For him, it’s about more than just content; it’s about sustaining families and uplifting lives.
He also noted that digital creators and entertainers have a unique ability to generate jobs in ways that are often underestimated. By collaborating with TikTokers for dance challenges, renting locations, and commissioning services, he is constantly injecting life into various corners of the entertainment and creative industries.
Obinna’s revelations offer a window into how serious and structured content creation can be behind the scenes. It underscores the value of the arts as a source of employment, beyond just what the audience sees on screen. His statement challenges the stereotype of entertainers working solo or casually, showing instead that building a digital empire requires a coordinated, professional team effort—one that touches many lives far beyond the spotlight.
