Chisom Umejiaku
It’s a day of laughter and celebration as Nigeria’s comedy powerhouse, Ayo Makun, better known as AY, marks his birthday today, August 19, 2025. 🎂✨
AY, born August 19, 1971, in Delta State, has grown into one of Africa’s most celebrated entertainers. His big break came in the early 2000s when he worked as personal assistant and event manager to veteran comedian Alibaba.
By 2006, he had launched his flagship show, AY Live, which quickly became one of the biggest comedy concerts in Nigeria, attracting massive audiences every Easter.
In 2014, AY made his Nollywood debut as a producer with 30 Days in Atlanta, which became a record-breaking box office hit. He followed it up with other successful titles including A Trip to Jamaica (2016), 10 Days in Sun City (2017), and the Merry Men series (2018–2023).
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These productions positioned him as one of the first comedians to successfully cross into mainstream filmmaking.
Fans and colleagues have taken to social media to celebrate the star at 54, praising not only his comedy but also his efforts in grooming younger acts through platforms like AY Open Mic Challenge, which has produced stars such as Akpororo, Elenu, and Emeka Smith.
As he marks this milestone, admirers say they look forward to more laughter-filled projects and blockbuster productions from the man widely regarded as the “king of Nigerian comedy.”