Popular Nigerian rapper and singer, Ice Prince Zamani, has revealed that he spent about ₦340 million on cannabis between 2020 and 2026, saying the habit almost destroyed his finances and personal life.
The rapper made the revelation during a recent episode of the Black Box podcast, where he spoke openly about his past lifestyle, his struggles with substance use, and the personal changes he has made in recent years.
Ice Prince, whose real name is Panshak Zamani, said the huge amount was spent on marijuana supplied by only one dealer in Lagos, excluding purchases from other suppliers in Nigeria and abroad.
According to him, the figure shocked even him when he eventually calculated the amount of money he had spent over the years.
“From 2020 to 2026, I have spent ₦340 million on weed from just one dealer alone, not to even mention my other dealers from Abuja, Ghana, Jos and London,” he said.
“This is just one dealer, who lives close to me in Lagos.”
The music star explained that the financial burden and the effect of the habit on his life pushed him to finally stop smoking.
He admitted that excessive cannabis use had gradually become unhealthy and dangerous, adding that he reached a point where he needed to make serious personal decisions about his future.
According to him, quitting weed became part of a broader journey of self-improvement and self-discovery.
Ice Prince also disclosed that he stopped drinking alcohol and adopted a healthier lifestyle as part of his transformation.
The rapper said he began focusing more on discipline, fitness and mental clarity after realising that some of his old habits were affecting his productivity and personal growth.
He revealed that the changes also helped him lose a significant amount of weight.
In another surprising revelation, Ice Prince said he has also been practising celibacy for some time as part of his efforts to gain more control over his personal life and emotions.
Although he did not state exactly when he stopped smoking or drinking, the rapper suggested that the decision has positively changed his mindset and lifestyle.
His comments have since generated reactions on social media, with many fans expressing shock over the amount he claimed to have spent on marijuana in six years.
Some social media users praised the rapper for speaking openly about his struggles and encouraging healthier living, while others debated the growing culture of drug use among entertainers and young people.
Over the years, several Nigerian celebrities have admitted battling addiction, depression and unhealthy lifestyles linked to fame and pressure in the entertainment business.
Mental health advocates have repeatedly called for more awareness and support systems for young entertainers facing emotional and psychological challenges.
Ice Prince is regarded as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian hip-hop and Afrobeats.
He rose to fame in the early 2010s after releasing the hit song “Oleku,” which became one of the biggest Nigerian songs of its time.
The song helped establish him as a major force in the music industry and earned him both local and international recognition.
He later released other successful songs, including “Aboki,” “Superstar,” and “Magician,” becoming known for blending rap with Afrobeats and contemporary African sounds.
The Plateau State-born artiste was also one of the leading stars under Chocolate City, one of Nigeria’s most successful music labels.
Throughout his career, Ice Prince has won several awards and collaborated with top Nigerian and international musicians.
However, like many celebrities, his journey has not been without controversy and personal struggles.
In recent years, the rapper has maintained a lower public profile compared to the peak of his career, leading to speculation among fans about changes in his lifestyle and career direction.
His latest interview appears to offer insight into some of the personal battles he was dealing with behind the scenes.
The issue of drug use among Nigerian youths has remained a growing concern for both health experts and government agencies.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has repeatedly warned about the dangers of substance abuse, especially among young Nigerians.
Officials say the increasing popularity of cannabis and other substances among youths could create serious health, economic and social problems if not properly addressed.
Although some countries have legalised or relaxed laws around cannabis use, marijuana remains illegal in Nigeria under existing laws.
Meanwhile, many fans say Ice Prince’s decision to openly discuss his past habits may help encourage conversations around addiction, recovery and personal growth.
Some supporters also described his transformation story as a lesson on the dangers of excessive living and the importance of discipline and self-control.
As reactions continue online, the rapper appears determined to move forward with a healthier and more focused lifestyle after years of what he described as costly habits.