On May 6, 2025, Nigerian music star Zlatan Ibile (@Zlatan_Ibile) took fans on a nostalgic journey by sharing a series of throwback photos from 2012 on X, captioned with a heartfelt “2012 dump 😩.” The images, showcasing Zlatan’s early fashion choices—including a Superman t-shirt and a Versace-inspired top, have resonated deeply with fans, sparking conversations about his incredible rise from humble beginnings to stardom. With lyrics from his song “Get Better” trending alongside the post, Zlatan’s throwback serves as a powerful reminder of perseverance and growth.
See post:
2012 dump 😩 pic.twitter.com/vBYl5HVa2q
— #WorldPresident 🌎 (@Zlatan_Ibile) May 6, 2025
The throwback photos struck a chord with fans, who flooded the replies with messages of inspiration, humor, and admiration. @abazwhyllzz referenced Zlatan’s lyrics, commenting, “‘That ugly boy wey no fit afford okrika back then don get full shop’ everyday motivation ⚡️💯,” quoting his song “Get Better” with Fola. @NuJhayhne echoed this sentiment, sharing a screenshot of the same lyric and writing, “omo if you give up, you fuck up gannnn😭.” @bigbigfc_ praised Zlatan’s consistency in style, noting, “One thing you still kept from way back till now is your drip🔥❤️🦅.”
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Some fans injected humor into their responses. @sheddido playfully called Zlatan a “low budget Duncan Mighty,” adding, “ThankGod for Grace🕊️,” while @amicablu remarked, “even with this sapa photo, you are still fresh.” Others, like @Freyy_is, were surprised by Zlatan’s apparent wealth in 2012, commenting, “Bro you were so rich in 2012!” @provii8 summed up the sentiment, stating, “From nothing to everything, Zlatan na motivation to boys walai 🔥🔥⚡️⚡️.”
Zlatan Ibile’s throwback photos highlight his early engagement with streetwear, a trend that has since become a cornerstone of his brand. According to Teen Vogue, Nigerian streetwear culture, influenced by the alte subculture, has been thriving since the early 2010s, with brands like Severe Nature emerging around the same time Zlatan took these photos. Zlatan’s 2012 style—featuring superhero tees and bold graphic designs—reflects the era’s Y2K aesthetic resurgence and youthful expression.
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Today, Zlatan is not only a music sensation but also a fashion entrepreneur. The Nation Newspaper reported in September 2024 that Zlatan launched his clothing brand ‘ZTTW,’ featuring innovative jerseys and t-shirts that reflect his personal style. The throwback photos serve as a reminder of how far he has come, from wearing affordable graphic tees to designing his own fashion line.
