Niniola: The queen of Afro-House

In an industry often propelled by fleeting trends and instant hits, Nigerian singer and songwriter, Niniola, made a different choice. She committed to a sound many once considered unsellable to Nigerian audiences, let alone the global market. More than a decade later, that decision has defined her career. Writes OLAITAN GANIU.

Almost twelve years after releasing her debut single ‘Ibadi’, Niniola Apata has positioned herself as the ‘Queen of Afro-House’.

“I didn’t have to change to be somebody else,” she said.

When she chose her path, even industry insiders questioned the future of the sound. “People were not sure about the longevity of the genre,” she reflects. “But thank God, I didn’t have to change to be somebody else.”

The 39-year-old performer faced repeated rejection at music auditions and talent competitions before her breakout.

“I got my fair share of ‘No, you’re not good enough,’” she recalls.

According to her, the disappointment became fuel rather than a setback.

“I wanted to be so good that nobody could question my craft,”  said Niniola, who hails from Ekiti State.

That determination crystallised in her debut album, ‘This Is Me’ in 2017, followed by ‘Colours and Sounds’ three years after. Both projects blended deep house rhythms with soulful storytelling, carving out a distinct sonic identity at a time when Afro-pop dominated Nigeria’s airwaves.

In 2019, she became the center of attention when American singer, Beyoncé sampled her sound in ‘Find Your Way Back,’ on ‘The Lion King: The Gift’ album .

Niniola received songwriting and composition credits on the track and was also a contributor to the Grammy-nominated album.

She has since collaborated with international artists, including DJ Snake and South Africa’s DJ Fresh, reinforcing her position as one of Africa’s most globally connected dance music voices.

“I’m glad I can be comfortable as an African and sing in my language,” she said.

Her latest song titled, ‘Belle’ has continued to gain traction across social media platforms as the track quenches rumour of her pregnancy status.

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Over the years, Niniola, who is also the elder sister of singer Teniola, has released multiple projects including ‘6th Heaven’, ‘Lagos to Jozi’ and ‘Press Play’ which dropped in 2024.

Beyond music, she is a free giver through her foundation, ‘Adopt a Child’s Education’. Inspired by her late father, the initiative focuses on practical, long-term impact rather than one-off donations.

“I don’t just give to public schools. I support infrastructure and fund electricity where needed,” she explained.