Entertainment
Onyeka Onwenu: A Nigerian Icon In Music, Film, Activism
Early Life, Education
Onyeka Onwenu was born on May 31, 1952, in Arondizuogu, Imo State, Nigeria.
She is the daughter of D.K. Onwenu, a respected Nigerian educator and politician.
Onyeka pursued her higher education in the United States, studying International Relations and Communication at Wellesley College and later earning a Master’s degree in Media Studies from The New School for Social Research in New York.
Music Career
Onyeka’s musical journey began in 1981 with her debut album “For the Love of You.”
She quickly became a prominent figure in Nigeria’s music scene, known for her ability to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary music.
Some of her well-loved songs include “One Love,” “Iyogogo,” and “You and I”.
Advocacy, Activism
Onyeka is not just a musician but also a passionate activist. She has been vocal about women’s rights and social justice. In 2000, she made headlines by staging a one-woman protest and hunger strike against the Nigerian Television Authority for not paying royalties on her song. This act of defiance earned her great respect from fellow artists.
Acting Career
In addition to her musical achievements, Onyeka was also a successful actress.
She appeared in several Nollywood films, including notable titles like “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Lionheart.” Her roles in these films have further solidified her status as a versatile entertainer.
Political Career
Onyeka’s dedication to public service saw her appointed as the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development in 2013.
In this role, she continued to advocate for women’s rights and development across Nigeria.
Business Ventures
Beyond entertainment and activism, Onyeka is also a businesswoman. She owns the Unity Event Centre in Ikeja, Lagos, which serves as a popular venue for various events.
Family Life
Onyeka is a proud mother of two sons, Tijani and Abraham. Her marriage to a Yoruba Muslim highlights her commitment to promoting inter-ethnic harmony in Nigeria.
She often spoke about the importance of embracing cultural diversity.
Literary Contributions
Onyeka has also shared her life story through her memoir, “My Father’s Daughter.”
In this book, she reveals many untold stories about her life, career, and the significant influence her father had on her.
Writing the memoir was an emotional journey for Onyeka, filled with both happy and painful memories.
Challenges in the Industry
Throughout her career, Onyeka has faced numerous challenges, including gender discrimination and the technical limitations of music production in Nigeria.
Despite these obstacles, she has remained a powerful and influential figure in the industry.
Cultural Impact
Onyeka’s work has had a lasting impact on Nigerian culture. She emphasizes the importance of self-worth and integrity, especially for women. She encourages women to define their achievements and purpose independently of societal expectations.
Onyeka Onwenu’s contributions to music, film, and social activism make her a true icon in Nigerian history. Her story is one of resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication to her beliefs and her country.
Lagos witnessed an electrifying night of Afrobeats excellence on December 23, 2024, as the Flytime Music Festival took center stage.
Headlined by Nigerian music powerhouse Olamide, the event brought together an impressive lineup of stars to deliver unforgettable performances.
Olamide, affectionately called “Baddest” by fans, captivated the audience with back-to-back hits from his extensive catalog, including fan favorites like Melo Melo and Duro Soke.
The night turned emotional when Zlatan Ibile joined Olamide on stage and knelt in homage, a moment that resonated deeply with the crowd.
READ MORE: Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Former Ooni’s Wife, Others Remanded Over Stampede
The festival also showcased the generational impact of Olamide’s artistry.
Rising stars like Lil Kesh, Young Jonn, and Pheelz, who credit Olamide as a mentor, joined him on stage for a nostalgic display of talent.
Bella Shmurda, Fireboy DML, and Wande Coal also made show-stopping appearances.
A highlight of the night was the powerful duet between Olamide and Wande Coal on their hit song Kpe Paso.
Afrobeats royalty turned out in full force to support Olamide. Icons like Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Peruzzi, and Iyanya performed alongside emerging stars such as Magixx, Omah Lay, Orezi, Khaid, and Lojay, making the event a celebration of the genre’s past, present, and future.
CKay added extra flair by joining Olamide for a vibrant performance of their collaboration, Wahala, while Tiwa Savage brought her signature energy to the stage, keeping fans on their feet.
Backstage, entertainers Tunde Perry and Farulee added a dose of humor, further elevating the night’s excitement. Flytime Music Festival 2024 was more than a concert; it was a testament to the unifying power of music and a celebration of the global dominance of Afrobeats.
Nigerian music sensation Davido was recently seen engaging warmly with Bose Ogulu, the mother and manager of Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy, at Tony Elumelu’s exclusive all-white party in Lagos.
The event, hosted by the prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist, gathered a star-studded assembly of celebrities, business leaders, and influencers.
The interaction between Davido and Ogulu drew significant attention, especially considering the previously reported tensions between Davido and Burna Boy.
Their cordial exchange at the event has sparked discussions among fans and observers, suggesting a possible easing of past disagreements.
READ MORE: Davido Announces 2025 Album 5IVE, Drops Single ‘Funds’
The all-white party, known for its elegance and high-profile guest list, featured performances from top Nigerian artists, including Davido and Burna Boy. Their individual performances were among the highlights of the evening, showcasing the unity and vibrancy of the Nigerian music industry.
Tony Elumelu’s gatherings are renowned for bringing together diverse talents and fostering a spirit of collaboration. The presence of both Davido and Burna Boy’s mother at the same event underscores the influential role such occasions play in bridging gaps within the entertainment community.
As videos and images from the event circulate on social media, fans express optimism about the potential reconciliation between the two music giants. Many hope that this encounter signifies a new chapter of collaboration and mutual respect in the Nigerian music scene.
Watch Video here
Several children lost their lives, and many others were injured in a tragic incident at a funfair in Ibadan, a city in south-west Nigeria.
The event, which was advertised as free entry, attracted a massive crowd, resulting in a crush as attendees struggled to gain access.
Eyewitnesses reported that over 5,000 children gathered at the venue, located at the Islamic High School Basorun. The tragedy unfolded when the main organisers arrived to begin the event. While the exact sequence of events leading to the crush remains unclear, the situation escalated into chaos, leaving scores injured.
READ MORE: Osun’s Mining Reforms Focused On Fairness, Equity – Governor
The Oyo state government confirmed the incident, stating that victims had been rushed to various hospitals across Ibadan for treatment. In a statement, they acknowledged “multiple loss of lives and injuries.” Authorities have urged concerned parents to check local hospitals for their children’s whereabouts.
The devastating event has left the community in shock, with residents mourning the lives lost in what should have been a joyous occasion. Investigations are expected to shed light on how the situation spiraled out of control.
Christmas: Shettima Assures Of FG’s Commitment To Citizens’ Welfare
Obi’s Inspiring Christmas Message Of Hope For Women’s Football
Yuletide: Adeleke Rejoices With Christians
Archbishop Martins Champions Clamour For Better Life For Nigerians
Tinubu Sends Hearty Christmas Greetings To Christians Worldwide
Olamide, Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Others Dazzle Fans At Flytime Music Festival 2024
OSSG Raises Alarm Over Murder Plot By APC Chieftain
NCC, SMEDAN, NAICOM, SEC, Others Set for SUPERNEWS SMEs Conf June 13
Sahara’s Tonye Cole resigns from GPHCDA
Niger Delta Avengers: President Buhari Reads riot Act …considers the carrot and stick option
Oando opens ultra-modern petrol station in Lagos
