Who is Asherkine? Everything to know about Nigeria’s “Street Santa” influencer

In an age where social media is often criticised for vanity and negativity, one young Nigerian is flipping the script by using his platform to spread kindness, generosity, and hope.

His name is Asherkine—real name Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo—and he has quickly become a household name for his viral philanthropic gestures, surprise giveaways, and heartwarming videos that capture real-life reactions to unexpected help.

Nicknamed the “Street Santa”, Asherkine has gained popularity not just for giving but for how he gives: with empathy, sincerity, and storytelling that resonates deeply with Nigerians from all walks of life. From borehole donations to underserved communities, to random acts of generosity for hawkers and school children, his content is changing the narrative on what it means to be an influencer in Nigeria.

Here’s everything you need to know about the man behind the name, including the most searched questions about him online.

What Is Asherkine’s Real Name and Where Is He From?

Asherkine’s real name is Akinyemi Oluwaseun Omotayo. He was born on May 8, 1998, in Lagos, Nigeria, and is a proud member of the Yoruba ethnic group. Raised in a modest, devout Christian home, he grew up with strong moral values, which later became the foundation of his humanitarian work. His alias, “Asherkine,” is a creative blend of “Asher,” which signifies happiness or blessing, and “kine” from “kindness”—a name that truly reflects his personality and mission.

How Did Asherkine Become Famous?

Asherkine’s fame skyrocketed after he began posting videos of himself performing unscripted acts of kindness on the streets of Nigeria. These weren’t your typical influencer stunts—they were raw, emotional, and highly impactful. He would give cash, food items, or business tools to struggling market women, security guards, students, and even elderly beggars. His video formats often start with him asking simple questions, followed by an unexpected show of support. These videos resonated deeply with Nigerians facing daily economic struggles, and they quickly went viral across Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter).

How Many Followers Does Asherkine Have on Social Media?

Asherkine boasts an impressive and fast-growing online presence. As of mid-2025, he has amassed over 1.6 million followers combined across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. His audience is not just large—it is loyal and highly engaged. His videos frequently receive hundreds of thousands of views and interactions, with many fans tagging friends, sharing emotional reactions, or commenting on how his content restores their faith in humanity. His follower base includes both Nigerians and diaspora audiences who admire his selfless mission.

What Are Some of Asherkine’s Notable Good Deeds?

Among his many charitable efforts, some stand out as major milestones. In early 2025, Asherkine funded the construction of a borehole in Amper community, located in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, giving residents access to clean water for the first time in years. Around the same time, he donated school uniforms, books, bags, and writing materials to children in Kwaikong, another underserved community. These projects were widely reported in local media and praised for their long-term community impact—proving he is more than just an internet sensation; he’s a true changemaker.

How Do Nigerians Describe Asherkine’s Impact?

Asherkine is widely admired as a modern-day hero in Nigeria’s digital landscape. Fans describe him as “a light in a dark place” and often say his videos bring them to tears. Beyond his public giving, he is praised for dignifying the people he helps, never exploiting them for likes or clout. Influencers, media outlets, and even religious leaders have praised him for using his platform to uplift society instead of seeking personal fame. His emotional connections with the people he supports make his content both healing and humanising.

Has Asherkine Worked with Other Nigerian Celebrities?

Yes, Asherkine has begun to collaborate with other creatives and entertainers. He featured alongside Afrobeats singer YKB on Ndani TV’s TGIF Show, where their camaraderie and chemistry charmed viewers. He was also a guest on Joeboy’s “Taxi Driver” series, where he opened up about his life and the motivation behind his philanthropic work. These appearances have helped introduce his story to wider audiences and allowed fans to see the man behind the acts of kindness.

Which Brands Has He Partnered With?

Asherkine is not just a content creator—he’s also a brand ambassador with an excellent track record. He has collaborated with top Nigerian and international brands such as Amstel Malta, Lush Hair, Indomie, Octa Global, and Itel Mobile. These brands are drawn to his authentic engagement and feel-good content. Some reports suggest that he earns ₦3–4 million per sponsored post, which helps him fund more community-oriented projects. His brand partnerships are often subtle and purpose-driven, seamlessly integrating product promotion with acts of goodwill.

What Is Asherkine’s Net Worth and Educational Background?

While Asherkine has not made his full educational background public, he is known to be articulate, media-savvy, and well-grounded—indicating a solid academic foundation. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be between $100,000 and $150,000, mostly from social media revenue, brand sponsorships, and affiliate deals. Unlike many influencers who focus on luxury lifestyles, Asherkine reinvests a significant portion of his earnings into community development and social empowerment.

Asherkine Is Redefining What It Means to Influence

Asherkine represents a new wave of digital influencers—those who use their platforms for real-world impact. In a country grappling with poverty, youth unemployment, and a fragile social fabric, his presence is a breath of fresh air. He is not only entertaining Nigerians but empowering them, one good deed at a time. And if the current search trends are anything to go by, he’s only getting started.