Award-winning singer Niniola Apata has paid tribute to her late husband, Michael Ndika, describing him as the person who helped shape both her personal life and music career.
Speaking during a Service of Songs held on Thursday, June 5, 2026, Niniola said Michael played a central role in her success and remained her strongest supporter throughout their 13 years together.
“My story with Michael is a love story. He did everything for me. He was breathing for me. He loved me so much, and I learned so much from him,” she said.
The singer recalled that when they first met, Michael told her he would make her a superstar, a promise she said he fulfilled.
“When he met me, he said, ‘I will make you a superstar.’ And he did. I was just the face and the voice, but Michael was the engine,” she said.
Niniola also revealed that her husband encouraged her to continue making music when she considered taking a break from the industry.
“Even when I decided to give music a break, he didn’t let it,” she said.
Describing the impact of his death on her daily life, the singer said Michael was the first person she saw each morning and the last person she saw at night.
“The first person I saw in the morning was Michael, and the last person who closed my eyes at night was Michael. So now what do I do?” she said.
Niniola announced Michael’s death in May 2026 through an Instagram post. She did not disclose the cause of death but said God had taken him after 13 years of marriage.
Michael Ndika, who was reported to be 44 years old, was the chief executive officer of NaijaReview, a multimedia platform focused on Afro-house and contemporary African music.
Her fans and colleagues have since shared their condolences.
