For 16 years, Beat FM has been more than radio. It has been the rhythm of Lagos, a soundtrack for Afrobeats, a stage for culture, and a community for millions. As the station celebrates this milestone on September 13, Guardian Life takes a closer look at the vision, the voices and the journey that continue to define its legacy.

Sixteen years ago, The Beat 99.9 FM entered the Lagos radio space with a promise to be the heartbeat of the city. Since then, it has grown into a cultural institution, shaping conversations, amplifying Afrobeats, and building an unrivalled community of listeners across Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and even London.

The station has been home to unforgettable interviews and iconic moments. Over the years, both Nigerian and international stars have sat in its studios. From Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, Tems, Tiwa Savage and Olamide to Cardi B, Skepta, Jidenna, Nasty C, Wale, Krept and Konan, The Migos and Fabolous, Beat FM has been the bridge between Nigerian youth culture and the global stage.

The vision that started it all

When Beat FM launched in 2009, its founder and Managing Director, Chris Ubosi, had one mission: to create a station that captured the pulse of a generation.

“The vision was clear: to create a station that didn’t just play music, but captured the pulse of a generation. At the time, Nigerian youth were hungry for a platform that reflected their energy, aspirations, and global outlook, something fresh, urban, and unapologetically Nigerian,” he recalls.

He says the inspiration came from watching cultural shifts across music, fashion and digital media. “Afrobeats was rising, Nollywood was evolving, and young Nigerians were beginning to shape global conversations. Yet radio had not quite caught up. We saw an opportunity to bridge that gap, to create a sound that was both local and international, and to give young creatives a home.”

The early years were not easy. “The economic and regulatory environments were tough to navigate. Convincing advertisers to bet on another youth-driven format was also a challenge. Recruiting and training talent that understood the tone we were going for took time.

And of course, building trust with the identified target audience meant we had to be consistent with our output. But we stayed the course, and soon enough, The Beat FM became more than a station, it became a lifestyle.”

Sixteen years after, Ubosi reflects on growth and the future. He says Beat FM is no longer just a Lagos brand but a cultural institution with presence in Port Harcourt, Abuja and London. The next decade, he explains, will focus on deepening its digital footprint and expanding influence across Africa and the diaspora.

“We are investing heavily in digital innovation, podcasts, video content and immersive experiences,” he notes. His goal is to meet audiences wherever they are, whether on their phones, in their cars, at events or online.”

He adds that the station is working on partnerships with tech platforms such as Google, global labels like Sony, Warner, Roc Nation and Empire, and plans to build its own creator space.

“Ultimately, our heartbeat is the audience. As long as Nigerian and African youth continue to evolve, so will The Beat FM.”

The voices that carry the legacy

Osikhena Dirisu

For Osikhena Dirisu, popularly known as ‘Osi Suave,’ radio has always been about storytelling. “I have always seen myself as a storyteller first,” he says. Today, as host of The Morning Rush and Programmes Director across Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, his voice and leadership remain central to Beat FM’s cultural identity.

His journey started at Rhythm 93.7 FM in Benin during his university days. Later, during his service year in Lagos, he auditioned for Beat FM under Gbemi, who was then Acting Programmes Director. “I joined Beat FM purely on the basis of talent, and the rest is history,” he recalls.

Reflecting on the anniversary, he adds, “If Beat FM has dominated for 16 years, what role can I play to ensure the next 16 are even bigger? My vision is to expand radio into digital, live events and global collaborations while ensuring the brand remains at the centre of Africa’s sound.”

Taymi B

For Temilola Balogun-Akinmuda, also known as Taymi B, the microphone has always been more than a tool. “From the very first time I sat behind the console at The Beat 99.9 FM, I knew it was about creating moments, building connections, and letting my personality shine through,” she says.

Her uniqueness lies in being bold and witty while staying warm and honest, which makes listeners feel they are speaking to a friend. “Over the past few years, Beat FM has given me the space to grow, experiment, and expand far beyond the ‘radio girl’ box while still keeping the heartbeat of the city moving every single day.”

For her, the anniversary is magic. “It is proof that when passion meets platform, magic happens. I am proud to be part of that magic and the story we continue to write together.”

Nicole Abebe

Working at Beat FM is, for Nicole Abebe, nothing short of an answered prayer. “As someone who grew up mostly in the UK, every holiday spent in Lagos there was only one radio station I knew that played the songs I liked – Beat FM. Years later I get the honour of hosting the Midday Show on that very same platform. Pinch me,” she says.

In her four years on air, she has cherished moments with listeners and built resilience on the job. “The on-air talents that broke boundaries made a way for voices like mine. Sixteen years later, I thank the ones that came before me, I thank the faithful listeners that keep the job entertaining, and I thank God and myself for not giving up on the dream.”

Eve Isikalu

For Eve Isikalu, joining Beat FM has been one of the most exciting milestones of her career. “Being a part of the Beat FM family has already been one of the most exciting milestones of my career as a radio presenter,” she says.

Her uniqueness lies in bringing authenticity, energy and connection to every show. “Radio is more than just a platform; it is a space where voices, stories, and music unite people across different walks of life. To be a part of this landmark moment is both humbling and inspiring.”

Biola

Biola Balogun describes his journey on radio as nothing short of surreal. “From walking into Beat FM as a curious intern to now hosting a prime time show, every moment has been a testament to passion, growth and authenticity,” he says.

Known for his vibrant energy, Biola brings music, sports and technology into his shows. “Beat FM’s 16th anniversary is more than a milestone, it is a personal celebration. It marks my place in the rich history of this ever-evolving establishment and affirms my role in shaping the soundtrack of the Afrobeats era.”

Anastacia

Anastacia Rafua joined radio eager to connect with listeners. “I wanted you to hear a familiar voice that sounds like yours, one that could truly relate to your life experiences,” she says.

Her strength lies in blending real conversations with music. “Of course, there is regular office pressure, but with a sprinkle of care, support and encouragement, Beat FM gives me the platform to grow, connect and bring authenticity to the airwaves every single day.”

Reflecting on the anniversary, she adds, “It is our shared journey, our culture and our countless memories with you. Sixteen years of breaking boundaries, shaping pop culture and being the heartbeat that keeps Lagos alive.”