Beyond the Beat: C-UNIT Uses Their Sound to Inspire Hope and Unity

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

In an industry driven by chart-topping hits and online virality, Nigerian music duo C-UNIT is building their brand on something different — purpose. Known for their unique blend of highlife and Afrobeats, C-UNIT is using their music not just to entertain, but to uplift.
Comprising brothers Onyedika Pascal Ike and Onyebuchi Anthony Ike, the duo has made a name for themselves with emotionally charged songs that tell real stories. From their early days in Jos to their breakthrough in Lagos, C-UNIT has remained grounded in their message: hope, resilience, and community.

“We want people to feel encouraged when they hear our songs,” says Onyebuchi. “Whether they’re struggling to make ends meet or just trying to get through the day, our music is a reminder that better days are possible.”

That message resonates in their 2024 single “Odieshi,” a song that has quickly become a fan favourite for its upbeat rhythm and motivational lyrics. While the title draws from cultural references to protection and endurance, the song itself feels like a musical prayer — a declaration of strength in the face of life’s challenges.

Their follow-up release, “Asampete,” continues in that spirit, though through a more celebratory lens. The track is a vibrant homage to Igbo women, blending cultural appreciation with infectious melody. For C-UNIT, it was important not just to make a danceable record, but one that connects people to their roots.

“When we celebrate Igbo women, we’re also celebrating our mothers, our sisters, the strength in our community,” explains Onyedika. “We want our music to reflect who we are and where we come from.”
Ifeanyi Nwosu, the group’s manager, describes their music as “a mirror and a microphone.”

“They sing about real things — not just what’s trendy. And because of that, people see themselves in the music,” Nwosu says. “You can dance to it, but you can also think about your life, your goals, your family.”
That approach is winning them a loyal and growing audience, particularly among listeners who crave more than surface-level sound. On social media, fans often share how a particular lyric helped them through a difficult time or how a beat lifted their mood after a hard day.
Though still considered emerging voices in the mainstream, C-UNIT’s impact is already evident. They’re part of a wave of Nigerian artistes using their platforms for more than just entertainment. Their songs tap into shared experiences — the hustle, the hope, the humour — that bind Nigerians across age, tribe, and class.

Looking ahead, the duo says their goal is to take their message beyond borders. Plans are already underway for an EP, slated for release later in the year, which will include a mix of new songs and collaborations with other artists in the Afrobeats and highlife space. According to their manager, discussions are also ongoing for a small tour across Nigerian cities and select West African countries.

“We want to connect with more people, not just through streaming platforms but on stage, face to face,” says Onyebuchi. “We’re working on something real. Something lasting.”

Beyond music, the brothers are also exploring ways to support young creatives who may not have the means to start their journey. A mentorship initiative is reportedly in the pipeline, aimed at helping aspiring artists and producers gain access to studio time, songwriting support, and industry guidance.

“We’ve been through hard times,” Onyedika adds. “We know how tough it can be when you have talent but no resources. If we can help just a few people find their way, then we’ve done something worthwhile.”
As Nigeria continues to face economic and social challenges, voices like C-UNIT’s offer more than just a distraction. They offer direction. And in a time when unity and optimism are in short supply, perhaps that’s exactly what the music industry needs.