Nigerian afro house singer Niniola Apata has opened up about the deep influence her late husband, Michael Ndika, had on both her personal life and music journey, describing him as a strong force behind her rise in the industry.
Her emotional reflection was shared in a video believed to have been recorded during a recent gathering held in his honour and later circulated online. In the video, the Grammy nominated singer spoke warmly about their relationship, which she described as a true love story that shaped much of her career path.
Michael Ndika, who was the Chief Executive Officer of NaijaReview, a platform focused on afro house and contemporary African music, passed away on May 19, 2026. He was 44 years old at the time of his death.
Recalling their time together, Niniola said her husband played a central role in her growth as an artist. She explained that he supported her from the very beginning, even when she was unsure about continuing in the music industry.
According to her, Michael believed strongly in her talent and constantly encouraged her to push forward. She noted that he once told her he would turn her into a star, a promise she says he fulfilled through his support and guidance.
Niniola revealed that there were moments she considered stepping away from music, but her husband would not allow her to quit. She described him as the driving force behind her career, someone who stood firmly behind her dreams even when she had doubts.
She went on to express how much he meant to her, sharing that their daily life was closely connected and deeply personal. According to her, his absence has left a huge gap that is difficult to put into words.
The singer also used the moment to appreciate the Ndika family for embracing her and supporting their relationship over the years. She acknowledged the emotional weight of recent events and expressed gratitude while also addressing the reactions that followed the news of his passing.
The announcement of Michael Ndika’s death, which came after Niniola revealed that he had been her husband of 13 years, surprised many fans and industry watchers, as the singer had kept much of her private life away from the public eye.
As tributes continue, Niniola’s words have highlighted not only her personal loss but also the quiet role her husband played in shaping her journey in the music industry.
