In a world where celebrity breakups often dominate headlines, it’s refreshing to highlight those who’ve managed to keep the love alive. With the recent news of 2Face and Annie Idibia’s potential split stirring the pot, we turn our gaze towards the shining examples of love and longevity in Nigerian celebrity marriages. Here’s an in-depth look at ten couples whose bonds have only grown stronger over time:
Contents
1. Dare Art Alade and Deola Ayeni2. Peter Okoye and Lola Omotayo-Okoye3. Timi Dakolo and Busola Dakolo4. Olamide and Adebukunmi Aisha5. Monalisa Chinda and Victor Tonye Coker6. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Captain Matthew Ekeinde7. Bovi and Kris Asimonye8. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) and Jumobi Adegbesan9. Banky W and Adesua Etomi-Wellington10. Mercy Johnson and Prince Odianosen Okojie11. Adekunle Gold and Simi: The Melody of Togetherness
1. Dare Art Alade and Deola Ayeni
Dare Art Alade, known for his captivating voice and heartfelt lyrics, has found a perfect harmony with Deola Ayeni. Married for over a decade, their relationship is a beautiful blend of music and fashion, with Deola being a renowned fashion designer. Their love story is one of mutual support, where Dare has often credited Deola for being his muse and inspiration. Together, they’ve navigated the pressures of celebrity life while raising their children in an environment of love and creativity, showing the world that marriage can be as dynamic and evolving as a melody.
2. Peter Okoye and Lola Omotayo-Okoye
Peter Okoye, famously known as Mr. P from PSquare, and his wife, Lola Omotayo-Okoye, have faced public scrutiny due to their age difference, but their love has only grown stronger. Their marriage, which has been public since 2013, is a testament to overcoming societal expectations. With their children, they’ve created a family unit that celebrates each other’s successes and stands together through challenges. Their public displays of affection and the way they champion each other’s projects reveal a deep, abiding love that transcends the noise of fame.
3. Timi Dakolo and Busola Dakolo
Timi Dakolo, the “King of Soul,” and his wife Busola share a connection that goes beyond music. Their marriage, now over a decade strong, is built on a foundation of shared faith, love, and family values. Busola has been instrumental in Timi’s career, standing by him from his days on “West African Idols” to his successful music career. They often share their journey on social media, giving fans glimpses of their family life, which is grounded in mutual respect and support, making them one of the most endearing couples in the Nigerian music scene.
4. Olamide and Adebukunmi Aisha
Olamide, the YBNL music mogul, and his wife, Adebukunmi Aisha, have kept their relationship relatively private, but their love is evident in the rare moments they share with the public. Since before Olamide’s rise to fame, they’ve been together, managing to keep their personal life away from the limelight. Their marriage speaks to the idea that true love doesn’t need to be loud to be profound. With children, they’ve built a life where family comes before fame, showcasing a love that’s both humble and powerful.
5. Monalisa Chinda and Victor Tonye Coker
Monalisa Chinda, after her first marriage ended, found love again with Victor Tonye Coker. Their union, which began in 2016, has been a beacon of hope for second chances in love. Victor, a businessman, has been a supportive partner, blending their families seamlessly and demonstrating that love can be found again with patience and the right person. Their marriage is a story of healing, understanding, and the beauty of starting anew with someone who cherishes you.
6. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and Captain Matthew Ekeinde
Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, or “Omosexy” as fans affectionately call her, and her husband, Captain Matthew Ekeinde, have been married since 1996. Their relationship is one of the longest in Nollywood, surviving through the ebbs and flows of a high-profile career. With four children, they’ve shown that it’s possible to maintain a loving, supportive partnership while navigating the complexities of fame. Their love is often showcased through social media, where they celebrate each other’s achievements and milestones, demonstrating a bond that has only deepened with time.
7. Bovi and Kris Asimonye
Bovi, Nigeria’s comedy maestro, and his wife, Kris Asimonye, share a relationship that’s as humorous on social media as his stand-up routines. Married for over a decade, their love is one of laughter, mutual respect, and shared joy. Kris often features in Bovi’s comedic skits, showing their playful dynamic. Their marriage highlights how shared laughter can be the foundation of a strong partnership, proving that love can be both fun and profound.
8. Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) and Jumobi Adegbesan
Richard Mofe-Damijo, or RMD, a Nollywood legend, and Jumobi Adegbesan have been together for over 20 years. Their marriage stands out for its longevity and the grace with which they handle public life. RMD often speaks of Jumobi’s role in his life and career, crediting her for his success. Their relationship is a masterclass in love, showing how respect, admiration, and a commitment to each other can create an enduring partnership.
9. Banky W and Adesua Etomi-Wellington
Banky W and Adesua Etomi’s relationship is like a page out of a romance novel. From their covert courtship to the viral proposal and their opulent wedding, they’ve captured the hearts of many. Their journey into parenthood has only added to their love story, with both often seen supporting each other’s endeavors, from Banky’s music and political aspirations to Adesua’s acting and advocacy work. Their marriage is a testament to love, faith, and the beauty of partnership.
10. Mercy Johnson and Prince Odianosen Okojie
Mercy Johnson, beloved for her roles both on and off-screen, and Prince Odianosen Okojie have built a family that’s the epitome of love and unity. With four children, their home life is a sanctuary of love where family takes precedence. Mercy frequently shares moments of their daily life, from school runs to family vacations, highlighting a marriage that’s grounded in the reality of raising a family while still shining in the spotlight.
These couples not only defy the narrative of short-lived celebrity marriages but also offer hope and inspiration. They show that love, when nurtured with respect, support, and genuine affection, can stand the test of time, even under the relentless gaze of the public eye. Here’s to their continued happiness and the beautiful stories they’re writing together.
Honorable Mention
11. Adekunle Gold and Simi: The Melody of Togetherness
Adekunle Gold and Simi, both powerhouse musicians, have crafted a love song of their own. Their secretive start turned into a public love story with their 2019 beach wedding. Their relationship, rooted in mutual admiration of each other’s talents, has blossomed into a partnership that includes music collaborations and the joy of parenthood with their daughter, Deja. Their marriage is a blend of romance, music, and family, making them a cherished couple in the entertainment industry.