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Tag: Genevieve Nnaji

  • Genevieve Nnaji slams social media user over marriage advice to Igbo men

    Genevieve Nnaji slams social media user over marriage advice to Igbo men

    Nollywood icon Genevieve Nnaji has reacted to comments made by a social media user advising Igbo men to stop marrying Igbo women and instead seek wives from other African countries.

    The suggestion, which followed a viral photo of a Rwandan woman reportedly engaged to an Anambra man, implied that Igbo women are prone to making false accusations.

    The user claimed men from the south-east would be better off looking to East African countries, particularly Rwanda, for marriage partners.

    Nnaji, who has long been regarded as one of Nollywood’s most respected voices, joined many Nigerians in responding to the controversial post, which has sparked debates on stereotypes, cultural pride and respect within relationships.

    READ ALSO; NELFUND’s disbursements hit N116b for students’ fees, upkeeps

    The user wrote, “Dear Igbo men, instead of marrying an Igbo woman who’ll falsely accuse you of r4ping your daughter, better look outside for a wife.

    “Go to East Africa, especially Rwanda, and pick a damsel. They’re all over social media, and you can link up with them.”

    Genevieve countered that the advice reflects a lack of accountability and an unfair stereotype of Igbo women.

    She wrote, “In other words, instead of checking yourself and taking accountability, go for the unsuspecting and carry on with your evil. Got it.”

    When challenged, she added that just as women can’t identify abusive men, men shouldn’t generalise about Igbo women, saying “Not all women.”

    She added, “The same way a woman can’t tell an abusive man apart from a good one is the same way you shouldn’t say avoid all Igbo women. ‘Not all women.”

  • Genevieve Nnaji gives me goosebumps – Nicole Chikwe

    Genevieve Nnaji gives me goosebumps – Nicole Chikwe

    Nicole Chikwe, wife of rapper Naeto C, has revealed that she still gets starstruck whenever she comes in contact with actress Genevieve Nnaji.

    In a recent encounter at a café in Ikoyi, Nicole recounted how she unexpectedly met Genevieve and couldn’t help but react like a true fan.

    Nicole described the moment as surreal, saying the air seemed to leave the room and time froze when she saw Genevieve.

    She said she instinctively bowed before the actress, which Genevieve responded to with laughter.

    “My queen, I’m not worthy to be in your presence,”  she said.

    Read Also: Nicole Chikwe prepares for second baby

    Nicole emphasised that her admiration is genuine, stating that Genevieve remains the one person who still shakes her, even after meeting many celebrities through her marriage and social media work.

    She said: “I want to talk about one person in particular because there is one person who whenever i’m in this person’s presence i feel like i am in the presence of a star and i am shook and i am weak every single time and that person is genevieve nnaji and even till now 14 years later whenever i see her i’m still just like like i’m trying not to faint. She’s just a star.”

    Nicole attributed her enduring admiration to Genevieve’s star power, noting that she feels like she’s in the presence of a true star whenever they’re together. 

  • Tunde Onakoya playfully woos Genevieve Nnaji as netizens react

    Tunde Onakoya playfully woos Genevieve Nnaji as netizens react

    Chess master Tunde Onakoya has expressed admiration for actress Genevieve Nnaji after she shared a photo from Rita Dominic’s 50th birthday celebration.

    Onakoya commented on Nnaji’s post with a simple “Hi,” which sparked a wave of reactions on social media.

    He humorously challenged potential suitors to a chess match, saying he’d only concede if someone could beat him.

    “Hmmm. I see that the competition is quite tough. I’ll only concede if any other suitor can beat me in a chess match”, he wrote.

    Onakoya later attempted to downplay his statement, joking that he was interested in selling his chessboard to Nnaji.

    “Let’s calm down, guys. I was only wondering if she wanted to buy my chessboard”, he added.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Bimbo Ademoye, Tunde Onakoya, Nancy Isime nominated for 2025 Trendupp awards

    However, netizens continued to weigh in, with some applauding his confidence and others playfully teasing him for “shooting his shot” with a Nollywood legend.

    An X user, #Dapo__, wrote: “You see chest, you leave chess”.

    #SheunAdeola, on his part: “You wan do another big thing from a small place abi? Eran awon Otunba leleyi o.”

    #Ridwanullahii said: “LAPO baby, wetin you Dey do?”

    “Bro, you go wound oh! LOL!”, #Bro, you go wound oh! LOL!, also wrote

  • 12 Nigerian celebrities who embrace natural skin tone

    12 Nigerian celebrities who embrace natural skin tone

    In an industry where image is everything, many celebrities often feel pressured to lighten their skin or alter their appearance to fit certain beauty standards.

    But there are notable stars who have chosen to proudly maintain their natural skin tone, inspiring fans to embrace their true selves.

    Here are 12 Nigerian celebrities who have stayed authentic to their complexion even after fame:

    1. Genevieve Nnaji
    A Nollywood legend, Genevieve has remained an advocate for embracing African beauty. 

    Her timeless elegance and natural glow have made her a role model across generations.

    2. Funke Akindele
    Loved for her iconic role in Jenifa’s Diary, Funke Akindele has never strayed from her signature look. 

    She continues to show that success has nothing to do with altering one’s complexion.

    3. Mercy Johnson
    Mercy Johnson has always radiated confidence with her natural skin tone. 

    Her authenticity has endeared her to fans and solidified her as one of Nollywood’s most respected talents.

    4. Ini Edo
    Ini Edo’s glowing chocolate skin has been part of her brand since she began acting. 

    She has proudly maintained her complexion and often reminds fans that beauty comes in all shades.

    5. Kate Henshaw
    Fitness enthusiast and award-winning actress Kate Henshaw is another example of a celebrity who celebrates her melanin. 

    She uses her platform to promote health, wellness, and self-love.

    6. Annie Idibia
    Actress and entrepreneur Annie Idibia has consistently embraced her natural tone. 

    She stands as a voice for women to feel beautiful just as they are.

    7. Linda Osifo
    An actress and TV host, Linda Osifo has always celebrated her rich brown skin. 

    She often speaks about loving her heritage and encourages young women to stay confident in their natural beauty.

    8. Beverly Osu
    The model and ex-Big Brother Africa star is known for her striking dark skin and unapologetic attitude. 

    Read Also: Why many Nigerian celebrities can’t live in US – Lord Lamba

    Beverly consistently promotes self-acceptance and challenges societal pressure to bleach.

    9. Diana Yekinni
    The talented actress known for roles in Lagos Cougars and Saro, Yekinni has always kept her natural skin radiant and unaltered, inspiring others to do the same.

    10. Esther Audu
    Esther Audu Ojire is admired for her talent and authentic beauty. 

    She continues to set an example of self-respect and natural elegance in Nollywood.

    11. Hilda Baci
    The Guinness World Record holder for longest cooking marathon, Hilda Baci is celebrated not just for her culinary feats but also for her vibrant personality and natural skin confidence.

    12. Tolu Bally
    Fashion entrepreneur and celebrity stylist Tolu Bally radiates elegance in her natural skin tone. She often showcases her glowing complexion in her designs and public appearances.

  • Genevieve Nnaji’s low social media presence hurts her brand – DeeOne

    Genevieve Nnaji’s low social media presence hurts her brand – DeeOne

    Comedian DeeOne has emphasised the role of social media in maintaining celebrity relevance, saying that Nollywood star Genevieve Nnaji’s low presence on social media negatively affects her brand.

    Speaking on a recent episode of Pulse’s ‘Hot Takes’ podcast, DeeOne argued that Genevieve’s limited presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter is diminishing her visibility and weakening her brand.

    “Celebrities who don’t post regularly on social media tend to fade from the public eye,” he said, adding that the entertainment landscape now favours those with strong digital engagement.

    Read Also: I don’t regret bringing Deeone on Honest Bunch podcast – Nedu

    He described TikTok sensation Peller as an example of effective online branding, claiming that the content creator is currently more relevant in Nigeria’s internet space than the iconic actress.

    DeeOne said, “Genevieve not talking much on social media is not helping her. Genevieve not posting on social media every time is reducing her brand. Let me rephrase it, anybody who is not posting constantly is not top of mind.”

  • Genevieve Nnaji spots two new tattoos

    Genevieve Nnaji spots two new tattoos

    Nigerian actress and filmmaker Genevieve Nnaji has been making some powerful moves in recent times without attracting the attention of the media and social media trolls.

    The film star, it was gathered, has been working on projects that will see collaborations with big powerhouses in Hollywood and Nollywood.

    Those peddling the tale hinted that after Nnaji has her eyes set on 2026 when she will be coming out with her new project. Her last self owned project was Lionheart and was released in 2018. In 2023, Genevieve was spotted in Toronto, Canada, where she attended the 48th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival.

    However, all these are not the recent features of Genevieve.

    Read Also: Genevieve Nnaji slams trolls over age-shaming comments

    The 45-year-old mother of one has currently joined a long list of Nigerian entertainers with a tattoo. The actress, who once took a shot at music with the release of a single and an album, currently spots two little tattoos on her left shoulder bone.

    The two tiny tattoos are drawings of a butterfly and the symbol of the zodiac sign, Taurus. The actress was born on May 3, which makes her fall into the sign.

  • Genevieve Nnaji slams trolls over age-shaming comments

    Genevieve Nnaji slams trolls over age-shaming comments

    Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji has hit back at social media trolls who attempted to shame her for aging.

    While one user pointed out that she couldn’t “cheat nature” and was getting older, Genevieve responded with wit, saying things could be worse—she could eventually die, if she was lucky.

    A user wrote: “You really cannot cheat nature. My fine wine is finally growing old’.

    Read Also: Actress Sandra Okunzuwa shares emotional encounter with Genevieve Nnaji 

    Replying to him, she wrote: “It gets worse, bro. I’ll get so old I’ll die. If I’m lucky”.

    Another troll called her “mummy,” implying that she was old, but Genevieve shut him down, saying she wouldn’t wish old age on him. 

    “Mummy, u don old o”, the troll wrote.

    She responded, “Daddy, I don’t wish it on you”.

  • How Hollywood made me feel like a commodity – Genevieve Nnaji

    How Hollywood made me feel like a commodity – Genevieve Nnaji

    Prominent actress Genevieve Nnaji has shared her experience seeking partnerships in Hollywood after the success of her 2018 film, LionHeart.

    Despite her achievements, Nnaji said she realised that she was viewed as a commodity, with Hollywood interested in exploiting her talent and African stories for their benefit.

    She noted that they wanted to use her to tell their own stories, rather than authentic African stories.

    “For the first time, I realised I was a commodity. I thought, you know, given what I had done with Lionheart, and all of that, I was going to have an opportunity to do more. Getting there and having the kind of support that obviously CANEX is bringing on board, but I thought I could find it in Hollywood. That was not quite the case.

    “They wanted what I had but for their benefit. It was all about their story. It was all about how, even if it was our story, I could make it more authentic to their own understanding of whatever Africa is because they did have a lot of literature in their archives”, she said.

    The actress, who was on a panel at the 2024 AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum/Afreximbank Annual Meetings and has benefited from Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), an Afreximbank programme through which it provides support, including financial support for trade and investment in Africa’s creative sector, expressed her passion for building a strong Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, that can rival Hollywood.

    Read Also: Genevieve Nnaji pulled away from me – Kate Henshaw

    According to her, she chose to stay in Nigeria and contribute to the industry’s growth rather than pursuing opportunities in Hollywood.

    The actress believes that Africa has the potential to own a thriving industry that tells its own stories, and she is committed to being part of that journey.

    “But I am Nollywood. I could have gone to Hollywood a long time if I wanted to. But I had a dream to build an industry in Nigeria that could rival it. That’s because I’ve always believed in that. I have always believed that we were capable of actually owning an industry like that, that told our story for our people. I wanted that. I respect what Hollywood is doing. I respect what Bollywood is doing and I felt like Nollywood had an equal chance at it.

    “So when I found it wasn’t quite what they had in mind I was like I’m just going to wait this out and the Covid happened and the worlds switched at that point and Africa sort of became it,” she added

  • Don’t be fooled by netizens about ageing backwards, DeeOne tells Genevieve Nnaji

    Don’t be fooled by netizens about ageing backwards, DeeOne tells Genevieve Nnaji

    Former Big Brother Naija housemate and comedian, DeeOne, has voiced his disagreement with the popular opinion regarding actress Genevieve Nnaji’s ‘ageless’ beauty.

    DeeOne bluntly stated that Genevieve is showing her age and should start taking on grandmother roles in movies.

    The reality TV star made these remarks while reacting to a trending video of Genevieve enjoying Ayra Starr’s album, ’21’.

    He argued that Nigerians are misleading Genevieve with their compliments, insisting that she is not ageing in reverse as many claim.

    DeeOne expressed his views on Instagram, challenging the actress to share pictures of the back of her hands and legs to prove his point.

    Read Also: Genevieve Nnaji pulled away from me – Kate Henshaw

    According to him: “Every time Genevieve’s video or picture comes out, people always say she looks so young. That’s a lie. If you want to know whether she is old or young, it’s not by face through pictures or video where they usually wear makeup, it is either by the back of her hand or the backs of her legs.

    “If Genevieve is truly young as claimed, I challenge her to post the back of her hands and legs. Madam Genevieve, you look your age. Don’t let them deceive you. Nigerians are deceitful.

    “You look your age and there is nothing wrong with it. I am already growing grey hair. There’s nothing wrong with old age. Embrace it. Take up elderly people’s roles in movies. Play mother and grandmother roles.”

  • 12 Nigerian celebrities who are single parents

    12 Nigerian celebrities who are single parents

    Genevieve Nnaji, Waje, Kate Henshaw, and several other strong celebrities in the spotlight proudly embrace their roles as single parents to their beloved children.

    Here are 12 Nigerian celebrities who are single parents

    1. Genevieve Nnaji

    Actress Genevieve Nnaji, gave birth to her daughter, Chimebuka, when she was a teenager in secondary school. Rather than let that slow her down, she took care of her daughter, who is now married, without getting hitched to any man. Needless to say, Genevieve still rocks and has a figure that many would give an arm and a leg for.

    2. Ini Edo

    Ini Edo got married to Philip Ehiagwina in 2008 but the marriage ended in 2014.

    In December 2021, she announced in an interview that she has a daughter.

    She said, “Yes I do have a daughter and I had her through surrogacy. The eggs are mine and so genetically, she’s my blood.

    3. Tonto Dikeh

    Actress and entrepreneur, Tonto was married to her ex-husband, Oladunni Churchill in August 2015. In February 2016, Dikeh gave birth to her son Andre Omodayo Churchill. However, in 2017, the couple parted ways and she has since assumed the role of both mother and father to her son. Tonto is enjoying motherhood and she is always seen gushing over her son.

    4. Osas Ighodaro

    Osas Ighodaro got married to Gbenro Ajibade in July 2015 in what could be described as a star-studded wedding, which was attended by many celebrities.

    Read Also: Five Nigerian celebrities who are citizens of other countries by birth

    She had her first daughter with her ex-husband in 2016, unfortunately, the marriage barely lasted four years, as the duo went their separate ways in 2019. 

    5. Waje

    Talented singer, Waje, gave birth to her daughter, Emerald Iruobe years before she got to the limelight, and we must say, she’s the true daughter of her mum.

    6. Tiwa Savage

    Famous singer and songwriter Tiwa Savage married Tunji “Tee Billz” Balogun in 2013. While the traditional marriage was held in Lagos, their white wedding was in 2014 in Dubai. Their union produced a son, Jamil Balogun. In 2016, the duo went their separate ways.

    7. Biodun Okeowo

    Popular Yoruba movie actress, Biodun Okeowo a.k.a Omobutty according to reports openly admitted that she was never married at any point although she was once in an abusive relationship which left her a single parent. She is a proud mum of two lovely children.

    8. Kate Henshaw

    Nollywood actress and fitness enthusiast, Kate Henshaw was in 2000 married to Roderick Nuttal and they have a daughter, Gabrielle Nutall together.

    9. Etinosa Idemudia

    Actress, Etinosa Idemudia, tied the knot with a Benin-based lawyer, simply identified as Ighorosa, in September 2020, but barely a year after, the marriage hit the rocks.

    She welcomed a baby girl with her ex-husband on Christmas day, December 26, 2020. 

    10.  Yvonne Jegede

    Yvonne Jegede in 2017 married her hubby Olakunle Fawole, aka Abounce, who is also an actor and the third and last child of the late broadcaster and actress, Bukky Ajayi. Her marriage which lasted a year produced a baby boy named Xavier.

    11. Adunni Ade

    Gorgeous Nollywood actress, Adunni Ade has two sons D’Marion and Ayden. She revealed that after she made a difficult choice to break up with their father, she would continue being a single parent. It is a known fact that Adunni doesn’t joke with her boys as she adores them so much.

    12. Iyabo Ojo

    Popular Nollywood actor, businesswoman, and fashionista, Iyabo Ojo was once married to a Lagos-based movie marketer in 1999 when she was 21. The union produced her two adorable children – Felix Ojo and Priscilla Ajoke Ojo.

    She has since divorced her ex-husband and moved on with working hard to build her career and business venture which she named after her children, FesPris.