Introduction
You can love him or loudly hate him, but one thing is clear: Very Dark Man (VDM) is a personal branding genius. In a country where millions are trying to go viral, get noticed, or start “something online,” VDM cracked the code—and he did it with zero filters, maximum volume, and a face the algorithm clearly loves.
From police arrests, to dragging skit makers, celebrities, and even pastors and herbalists, VDM has turned controversy into currency. But beyond the wahala and war of words, there are real lessons hidden in his madness or style.
So, what can VDM teach you about building a powerful personal brand in Nigeria—without ending up in court or with 16 “cease and desist” letters?
1. Be Bold—But Be Clear
VDM didn’t go viral for whispering. He shouts. He names names. He doesn’t do “vibes and inshallah”—he does statements and screenshots. While you may not need to be that loud (or rude), clarity and courage are personal branding superpowers.
Lesson:
- Don’t be vague. Say what you stand for.
- Pick a clear message and own it daily.
- In a noisy internet, clarity cuts through.
Example: Are you a Gen Z designer helping small businesses glow up? Say it. Show it. Repeat it.
2. Consistency = Visibility
Whether it’s Monday or arrest-day, VDM is posting. This man probably schedules his rants. While others post randomly and disappear, VDM floods the timeline like Lagos rain.
Lesson:
- Choose your platform (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube).
- Post consistently
- Repetition builds recognition. Recognition builds relevance.
Bonus Tip: Use The EmpowerBox’s free content calendar template to plan your brand voice—minus the handcuffs.
3. Controversy Isn’t a Strategy—But Bold Opinions Can Help
VDM lives in the comment section of trending drama. But you don’t need to court chaos to build attention. Instead, share honest takes that spark discussion. Authenticity wins.
Lesson:
- Share strong opinions (with respect).
- Educate, entertain, or challenge status quo.
- Don’t just follow trends—add value to them.
You can go viral by being useful, not just noisy. Try a reel teaching people how to start freelancing with N0 capital—it works.
4. Learn the Art of Digital Presence
Say what you want—VDM knows how to work the algorithm. His videos are short and long, punchy, and attention-grabbing. He also knows how to drag all of Nigeria’s bandwidth into his comment section.
Lesson:
Use engaging titles
- Keep videos under 90 seconds for TikTok/IG
- Speak directly to the camera, clearly and confidently
- End with a call-to-action (“What do you think? Let’s argue.”)
Even if you’re teaching Excel tips or skincare hacks, energy matters.
5. Personal Branding in Nigeria = Show Up with Guts & Goals
VDM didn’t wait for permission to start—he just started. That’s the ultimate lesson.
Lesson:
- You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be present.
- Start creating, building, and posting—even if it’s not “there” yet.
- Let your brand evolve. Most Nigerians online just want to see that you’re real.
Want help building your brand? EmpowerBox offers a free Personal Branding Starter Kit and courses on Content Creation, Digital Hustling, and more. (Insert link)
Final Thoughts: Channel Your Energy Wisely
Very Dark Man may not be your branding idol, but he’s a branding masterclass in motion. From boldness to consistency, he shows what it takes to stand out in Nigeria’s digital jungle.
So take the energy—leave the drama. Build a brand that’s real, relatable, and relevant. And remember:
Speak up
Show up
Stay smart (and out of jail)
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