Singer Niniola returns with new single ‘O Du Mi’ after husband’s death

Months after the death of her husband, Michael Ndika, Afro-house singer Niniola Apata is returning to the music scene with a new single, "O Du Mi," set for release on August 14. This will be her first significant musical offering since Ndika, who managed her career and was CEO of NaijaReview, passed away in May 2026 after 13 years of marriage.

Niniola has openly shared her grief on social media, describing Ndika as her "best friend, confidant, pillar, business partner and husband." The upcoming single is described as a deeply personal reflection on love, loss, and emotional healing. "Some feelings are too deep for words. So I put them in a song," she stated, sharing a preview of the track.

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Some feelings are too deep for words. So I put them in a song.

Despite the profound loss, Niniola has been gradually re-engaging with public life, including performances. She recently attended her younger sister Teniola Apata's album launch. Niniola admitted that returning to music remains emotionally taxing, acknowledging, "There are no words for a moment like this, but I know he’d want me to keep singing, to keep showing up, and to keep sharing the gift we’ve always believed in."

Her comeback with "O Du Mi" is anticipated to usher in a new chapter in her career, as she continues to evolve her signature Afro-house sound. Niniola, celebrated for hits like "Maradona" and "Designer," remains a prominent figure in Nigeria's Afro-house music landscape, known for her fusion of traditional African rhythms with modern musical styles.

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There are no words for a moment like this, but I know he’d want me to keep singing, to keep showing up, and to keep sharing the gift we’ve always believed in.