Lagos socialite and nightlife entrepreneur Mike Nwogu, popularly known as Pretty Mike, says he spent over N100 million renovating his nightclub, Proxy Lagos, after it was shut down following a raid by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking with journalists at the club, Pretty Mike said the renovation was aimed at repositioning the business and improving customers’ experience after months of closure.
According to him, the nightclub was shut for about nine months, a period he described as financially and emotionally difficult for him and his team.
“I spent over N100 million renovating the club. After everything that happened, I felt there was a need to rebuild and create something even better for people who support my business,” he said.
The businessman said he survived the shutdown through multiple sources of income and support from family members and associates.
“The brand, Pretty Mike, is always making money. That is what has kept me afloat regardless,” he stated.
Pretty Mike added that he is involved in construction and real estate aside from nightlife.
“I have a construction firm. I’m also slightly into real estate where I build and sell properties. Then, of course, there’s family support. People feel safe investing with me because they know I’m not the type to disappear,” he added.
He also said the reputation he has built over the years has encouraged people to invest in his businesses and projects.
Speaking on his public image, Pretty Mike admitted that controversy has become associated with his brand, although he does not intentionally create scandals.
“My brand is already a controversial brand. It doesn’t necessarily mean I like controversy, but I found out that in this business, it is part of it,” he said.
Despite his public lifestyle, he described himself as someone who prefers staying indoors.
“I actually hate parties and loud music. I like staying indoors by myself, but because nightlife is my business and source of income, I have to push myself out there,” he explained.
Proxy Lagos, located in Victoria Island, was raided by NDLEA operatives in October 2025 over allegations of illegal drug activities at the nightclub. More than 100 people, including Pretty Mike and former Big Brother Naija housemate Tuoyo Ideh, were arrested during the operation.
Following the raid, the Federal High Court in Lagos granted an interim forfeiture order on the nightclub while investigations continued. Pretty Mike and the club’s supervisor were later arraigned on charges linked to unlawful possession of drugs and allowing the premises to be used for illegal activities. They pleaded not guilty and were granted bail.
In January 2026, the court dismissed an application by the NDLEA seeking to stop the reopening of the club, clearing the way for Proxy Lagos to resume operations.
