Meerkat meme fever: Nigerian celebrities who have joined the viral trend
Meerkat 101: Everything to know about the animal behind Nigeria’s viral meme.
The meerkat meme—a quirky, upright meerkat often sporting a toothpick or cap and exuding swagger—has taken the Nigerian internet by storm. AI-generated images of this sly rodent, dubbed the “smirking meerkat,” have gone viral across platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp.
According to DirtyNaija, the meme “defines the phrase ‘I no talk o, but I dey see everything’” and taps into Nigerians’ love for drama and wit.
Nigerian celebrities, from Nollywood stars to social media influencers, have jumped on the trend—using the meerkat to poke fun at gossip, drama, and mischievous scenarios. Here’s a deeper dive into five notable celebrities and their viral takes.
Toke Makinwa’s Classy Shade Moment
Radio and TV personality Toke Makinwa posted a meerkat meme on her Instagram Story, pairing it with a caption about “knowing the full tea” while listening to gossip. The post, though fleeting, quickly became viral, with fans sharing screenshots across platforms. Toke’s savvy use of a trendy meme to comment on everyday social dynamics demonstrates how celebrities are tapping current memes to stay relatable.
Eniola Badmus Brings Comic Relief on TikTok
Actress Eniola Badmus, known for her infectious humor, posted a TikTok video featuring the meerkat doing a side-eye mimic of her expressions during mock gossiping. The blend of human and meerkat reactions racked up thousands of views and comments. Eniola’s use highlights the interactive potential of memes—blending AI art with physical comedy for dynamic, shareable content.
Mr Macaroni Uses Meme for Social Commentary
Comedian Mr Macaroni (@mrmacaroni1 on TikTok) infused the meerkat meme with witty civic commentary. He captioned his post:
“When you watch government announcements like ‘I sure pass my Lagos exam’ 😂”
By aligning the meme with observations on political discourse, Mr Macaroni demonstrates how viral trends can enhance satire.
Regina Daniels Applies Meme to Everyday Banter
Influencer Regina Daniels shared a meerkat meme on Twitter with the caption:
“Me watching your WA chat when you say ‘see who I saw today’…”
Her post captured the light mockery of everyday drama, resonating widely and prompting replies and retweets that turned it into a viral moment among her fanbase.
Funke Akindele’s Meme for Surprise Reactions
Veteran actress Funke Akindele used Instagram Stories to post a meerkat meme, tagged with:
“Ah-ah, when you show up at your own surprise party 😏”
Her clever blending of the meme’s smug expression with a personal scenario highlights how the meerkat trend can be adapted to fit relatable real-life reactions.
Why the Meerkat Meme Hits Home in Nigeria
The meerkat’s laid-back yet knowing demeanour resonates deeply with Nigerians who love humor that comments on everyday intrigue—like overheard whispers, social drama, and tongue-in-cheek gossip. DirtyNaija notes that the meme is “the perfect reaction for… observing your neighbour collect breakfast (aka heartbreak)”.
The meme’s AI-crafted visuals and universal themes of passive observation made it an ideal canvas for celebrity expression.
Furthermore, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X are flooded with the meme, often featuring different variations—some with hats, others zoomed to intensify the subtle shade . This wounded meme’s adaptability and timing created an environment ripe for influencers to engage audiences.
🔗 Where to See These Posts
While some posts have vanished (Instagram Stories lapse after 24 hours), fans can still check out:
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Toke Makinwa – @tokemakinwa on Instagram (search fan reposts)
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Mr Macaroni – @mrmacaroni1 on TikTok, June–July 2025 uploads
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Eniola Badmus – @eniola_badmus on TikTok, look for reaction clips
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Regina Daniels – @ReginaDanielsNG on X, search “meerkat”
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Funke Akindele – @funkejenifaakindele on Instagram (Story highlights may include the meme)
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan joins meerkat trend
Broader Impact & Cultural Resonance
The meme emphasizes how African influencers and creators are quick to adapt global internet culture into localized, culturally relevant content.
By playing with universally popular face-meme formats—like Osita Iheme’s “Pawpaw” or Odunlade Adekola’s expressive shots—celebrities continue a tradition of Nigerian meme-making.
The meerkat meme builds on that legacy, bridging animal humor with everyday Nigerian social narratives. Through them, public figures show they’re not just stars—but also keen observers of cultural mood and social nuance.
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