If you think you know Toke Makinwa, you might have to think again! Toke Makinwa isn’t just a TV or Radio presenter or a fashionista or entrepreneur, Toke Makinwa is a human and like every other human, she has a story – a story filled with ups and downs, heartbreaks and new beginnings and facts that you might not know.

In this article, we’ll be exploring 4 little-known-facts about Toke Makinwa and how each blow in life has helped her become the woman she is. This will greatly inspire you, so sit tight as we dive into the life of a celebrity who has been through life and facts about her that might leave you teary.

  She Lost Both Her Parents to Fire at Age 8.

Toke Makinwa

The year 1993 marked a tragic point for Toke Makinwa and her entire family. At the tender age of eight, she lost both her parents, Caleb Ifemayowa and Modupe Monica Mayowa in a gas cylinder explosion in their home in Abuja.

Toke Makinwa explained in depth how the death of her parents was a turning point for her. In her book, On Becoming, she wrote:

‘’In the movies, you sometimes see a scene with someone burning from head to toe, screaming and trying to fight the flames. It happened right in front of me. Everyone ran back trying to figure out who it was and how to put out the flames, shouting advice from a safe distance.

It took me a moment to realize that it was my mum. I stood glued to the spot, watching her burn… Even after they were driven to the hospital, I could still smell it.

From being a bubbly, friendly child, I became withdrawn and taciturn. From being the child who always came first in class, I went to the bottom of the class”

After the death of her parents, Toke and her siblings moved into her eldest aunt’s home in Ikoyi, Lagos. While this was a downhill pivot for her, it also fueled her resilience and outlook on life.

  From Literature to A Thriving Career in Media

Toke Makinwa – Radio presenter, TV personality and Entrepreneur

Toke Makinwa wasn’t born the eloquent presenter and glamorous personality, in fact, at it all started at the Federal Government Girls’ College, Oyo State where she had her secondary education. She then enrolled into the University of Lagos (UNILAG) where she studied English Language.

She seemed to know what she wanted because while in school studying English, she sought for hosting gigs, applied for internships and began to build herself slowly but steadily. She later went on to major in Communication and Media Studies. And her big break didn’t come until 2010 as a media host on Rhythm 93.7 FM in a show called ‘’The Morning Drive’’

Later on, Toke opened up about how losing her parents made her crave expression and how media became an outlet by which she could express herself. In her words:

‘’I had so much bottled up inside me, and I needed to speak, to pour out, to be heard. The mic gave me that power.”

   Private Wedding, Public Divorce

Toke Makinwa’s ex-husband, Maje Ayida

While every marriage is expected to be happily-ever-afters, but some don’t turn out that way, behind the glamorous pictures, bags and following, Toke’s love story started like a fairy tale but plummeted, leading to heartbreak, scandal and then, rebirth.

In January 2014, Toke Makinwa got married to Maje Ayida, a fitness expert and founder of HIIT Squad after being in an on-and-off relationship for about 8 years. It was indeed a joyous moment for Toke and her fans not until barely 18 months later, news spread that Maje Ayida had impregnated his ex-girlfriend Anita Solomon even though he was still married to Toke.

Social media went wild, it was the headline on almost every blog, it didn’t just shake her fans, it broke Toke herself. In March 2016, Toke filed for a divorce on grounds of adultery, verbal abuse and emotional neglect and in October 2017, her divorce was finalized by an Igbosere High Court in Lagos.

But while many expected Toke to crumble, she emerged. That same year, she launched TM Luxury, her luxury bag line and six months later released her memoir – ‘’On Becoming.’’

  On Becoming – A Story of Loss, Grief and Rebirth

Toke Makinwa’s memoir – On Becoming

While a lot of people would have collapsed under the weight of it all, Toke refused to. In November 2016, she released a memoir, and this wasn’t your regular book, this became a revolution.

In the book, she talked about everything – the painful memory of losing both parents in a fire when she was just 8 years old, her relationship with Maje Ayida, the cheating, its effects on her self-esteem, how societal expectations made her stay when she desperately wanted to leave. She didn’t just write about heartbreak but also about identity, faith, survival and womanhood.

And within 24 hours of release, On Becoming sold out in the major bookstores in Lagos. Celebrities like Banky W, Tiwa Savage and others were physically present not just to get a copy but to support her and appreciate her for telling her story.

It has since then become a kind of language that many Nigerian women understand, about the myth of a perfect marriage and the power of feminity and resilience.

In conclusion, the next time to hear the name Toke Makinwa, let it not only remind you of a bubbly internet sensation but also remind you of a woman of resilience and strength who had every reason to give up on life but didn’t but instead used her pain as fuel to build a legacy that would last beyond her.

Let her story be a reminder, especially to the female gender that it is possible to rise above the ashes and turn your lemons to lemonades not just for you but for others as well.

UP NEXT: From Tanzania to Nigeria: Priscilla Ojo’s Wedding Wardrobe Highlights

The CEO of Sayaveth Interiors posted yesterday on the ‘gram, celebrating 15 years in the interior design game. In her post, she reflected on how she left insurance marketing to chase her dreams, turning her passion for interior design into a multi-million naira business.

Now, if you’ve ever seen her work, you know Ehizogie Ogbebor doesn’t do the basics. From astonishing luxury home designs to high-end furniture that screams opulence, she has built a brand that is as bold, stylish, and fearless just like herself.

But beyond the glitz, glam, and perfectly curated Instagram feed, her journey is one of determination, hard work, resilience, and breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry.

So, who is Ehizogie Ogbebor, and how did she go from selling insurance to designing some of the most luxurious spaces in Nigeria? Let’s dive in.

Ehizogie

From Insurance Marketing to Interior Design Mogul

Fifteen years ago, Ehizogie was working in insurance marketing, probably trying to convince clients that life policies were a good idea. But deep down, she knew she was meant for something bigger.

So, like every true risk-taker, she dumped the corporate world and pursued  her passion for interior design.  A scary, risk taking journey.

Fast forward to today, Sayaveth Interiors & Hotel is one of the most sought-after interior design brands in Nigeria. In her caption yesterday on the gram she wrote “Still the Topic and Top pick.” Depicting her as a lead in her industry.

From luxury mansions to boutique hotels, Ehizogie has built an establishment that turns empty spaces into works of art. Her style is known for its timeless elegance mixed with modern sophistication.

And if you think she’s all about beauty, think again. She is a wise businesswoman who understands that luxury isn’t just about looks, it’s about experience, functionality, and value.

Power woman

The Sayaveth Touch: Where Luxury Meets Comfort

Ever stepped into a house and felt like you made it in life, even if just for a second? That’s the effect Sayaveth touches.

Ehizogie Ogbebor has a way of transforming spaces into luxurious havens. Whether it’s a grand marble-floored mansion, high-rise penthouse, her designs radiates class, warmth, and sophistication.

Her signature style?

• Bold statement pieces that command attention.
• A perfect  mix of modern and traditional aesthetics.
• Custom-made furniture that fits each space like a glove.
• Intentionality, she has a keen eye for detail that ensures  every inch of a space is unique.

It’s no surprise why celebrities, high-profile executives, and top-tier homeowners all want a piece of Sayaveth Interiors in their homes.

Boss lady

A Woman Winning in a Male-Dominated Industry

Interior design may seem like a glamorous field, but high-end construction and property development, the part people aren’t aware of, is a different ballgame, one traditionally dominated by men.

But Ehizogie? She walked in, took a seat at the table, and rewrote the rules.

She’s been hands-on in multiple construction and real estate projects, proving that women can do more than just decorate spaces, we  can own, design, and build them too.

Her boldness in business has not only earned her respect but has also paved the way for other women to enter the luxury real estate and interior design space. Making her an inspirational figure to women. Some commenters on her picture wrote “You inspire me ma’am”

Ehizogie

The Power of Reinvention & Taking Risks

One of the exceptional takeaways from Ehizogie’s story is the power of reinvention.

She could have played it safe, stayed in insurance, and lived a comfortable life. But instead, she bet on herself, embraced the uncertainty, and built a multi-million naira empire from scratch.

Her journey is a reminder that:

Passion and talent mean nothing without action.

Stepping out of your comfort zone is where the magic happens.

Reinvention is possible at any stage of life.

So, if you’re sitting on a dream, wondering whether to take that leap, let this be your sign.

Beauty with Brain

Beyond Business: The Woman Behind the Brand

While her work speaks volumes, Ehizogie Ogbebor herself is just fascinating. Known for her fearless personality and unapologetic confidence, she has embraced both her wins and challenges in the public eye.

Her personal journey, together with her experiences as a mother, entrepreneur, and public figure, has made her even more relatable, in a society where there are many single women doing great in their craft. She’s not just a boss, but a woman who has faced struggles, overcome obstacles, and kept winning.

And in a world that often tells women to dim their light, Ehizogie is proof that you can shine as brightly as you want, and still be unstoppable.

Inspirational women

Celebrating 15 Years of Excellence

Fifteen years in business is no small achievement, especially in an industry that demands constant innovation, creativity, and resilience.

Ehizogie Ogbebor’s journey from insurance marketer to CEO of Sayaveth Interiors & Hotel is proof that when talent meets hard work, the results are great.

So, whether you are a business woman, entrepreneur or professional in a corporate world and someone who admires success and wants to do great, Ehizogie is a powerhouse and a perfect example for you.

Don’t wait, jump and pursue that thing you have always wanted with passion.

read also 5 CEO Business Women To Follow This Week In Nigeria

Mrs. Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan was born on the 9^th of December, 1979. She is a Nigerian barrister, politician, and social entrepreneur who is known for her advocative activities and her commitment to public service. Here are 5 things you should know but probably don’t know about Natasha Akpoti.

Nathasha Akpoti

1. Natasha Akpoti was born on December 9th, 1979, to a Nigerian father, Dr. Jimoh Abdul Akpoti, and a Ukrainian mother, Ludmila Kravchenko. She grew up, however, in Ihima, Okehi, Kogi State, Nigeria, alongside three siblings.

Her younger years were influenced by her father’s philanthropic medical practices, which inspired her dedication to advocating for human rights and to community service.

2. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a trained lawyer and businesswoman who transitioned into politics.

She studied and received a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in 2004 from the University of Abuja, Nigeria, attended the Nigerian Law School, and was called to the bar in 2005. She also obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Oil and Gas Management in 2012 from the University of Dundee.

Natasha Akpoti, politician and lawyer

3. Before becoming a part of the Senate, Natasha contested for the Kogi State Senatorial seat in 2019 under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Although she was not successful in the election, she gained national recognition.

In 2023, under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), she was officially elected as the Senator for Kogi Central in the 10^th National Assembly.

4. Nathasha Akoti’s biggest cause has been the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Company, as she believes it can transform Nigeria’s economy.

Even before her political journey in 2019, she gained national attention in March 2018 for presenting an investigative report to the National Assembly, highlighting corruptions and other secret groundworks that were preventing the progress of the Ajaokuta Steel Mill.

Natasha and her husband, Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Alema of Wari

5. She got married to Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri, on the 5^th of March, 2022, and their marriage is blessed with three children.

Senator Natasha Akpoti, fearless advocate for women’s empowerment

Although Natasha Akpoti is currently going through a hard patch following her accusation of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment, her suspension for alleged misconduct, and her seeking internal intervention, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s journey is one of commitment, political optimism and doggedness and hopefully, everything works out fine for her in the end.

ALSO READ

Biography of Uzor Arukwe – Nollywoods Sought-After Actor

Medlin Boss, Fashion Queen, ”Named Among 100 Most Influential African Women”