Producers of strong menthol-flavoured candy, TomTom, have announced the close out of the talent hunt programme in Ikorodu, Lagos, tagged TomTom Breathe Through It Verse Challenge – Barz on Wheelz.
In a statement, they stated that the programme wrapped up in powerful style on May 24, 2025, with a high-impact outdoor finale at the open field of Ikorodu Town Hall.
“The final stop of the four-week Lagos-wide tour brought an emotional close to a campaign that celebrated raw talent, resilience, and the power of young voices across the city.
“The Ikorodu edition saw over 95 contestants step up to the mic in a heated lyrical contest, culminating in a tightly contested final battle between Rasheed Kune, a.k.a. Raskapella, and Abednego Jacob, a.k.a. Abednego Noris, a visually impaired performer whose performance was both moving and masterfully delivered.
“Raskapella emerged as the winner, impressing the judges with his commanding presence, authentic flow, and lyrical depth.
He received a N1m cash prize, a six-month supply of TomTom, and a coveted spot in the TomTom Breathe Academy, a virtual learning experience tailored to equip winners with tools to build sustainable creative careers,” the statement stated.
It stated that the TomTom Breathe Academy offers free online classes on critical areas such as the business of music, content creation, and personal brand development. It serves as a next-level opportunity for the winners to grow their craft beyond the stage and thrive in today’s competitive music and content industry.
Reflecting on the tour, the Category Manager, Gum and Candy, Cadbury West Africa, Abidemi Ajayi, stated that, “The BTI Verse Challenge has done more than discover talent, it has opened doors. From Raskapella’s brilliance to Abednego Noris’ inspiring courage and Kamsi Vanilla’s barrier-breaking moment, these are stories of expression, empowerment, and evolution. Through the Breathe Academy, we’re continuing that journey with education, guidance, and real industry tools.”
In recognition of his extraordinary performance and tenacity, Abednego Noris was awarded a ₦300,000 consolation prize, courtesy of TomTom, drawing a heartfelt ovation from both the audience and his fellow contestants, a moment that captured the spirit of inclusion and inspiration the challenge stands for.
The statement stated that the final event was judged by a panel of respected voices, Afro-street music icon Small Doctor, rap star Candy Bleakz, and Okematti Azeez Adebola, Welfare Director of the Ikorodu-Oga Development Association. Their combined insights balanced street authenticity, industry expertise, and community perspective in selecting the top talents.
The Ikorodu finale brought a memorable close to a journey that began in Yaba, where Lam Young wowed judges with his story-driven verses; continued in Agege, where Leekee emerged champion and Dannyboi earned a special runner-up recognition; and reached a historic milestone in Oshodi, where Kamsiyochukwu Uchechukwu, a.k.a. Kamsi Vanilla, made history as the first female winner of the challenge.
The statement further stated that with the tour now complete, the spotlight turns to the TomTom Breathe Academy, where all winners will participate in virtual classes and mentorship, designed to help them breathe through pressure and build lasting impact.
