Niniola: How late Dan Foster inspired me

Niniola Apata, queen of Afro-house, says Dan Foster, late Nigerian-American broadcaster, was one of those who motivated her to strive for excellence.

The singer brought the revelation to light during a recent episode of #WithChude wherein she reflected on her family, career, and growing up.

Foster, who passed away in June last year, was a former judge of the Idols (West Africa TV series).

Speaking on the show, Niniola recounted how Foster’s constructive criticisms alongside Dede Mabiaku, Nigerian singer-songwriter, during the show’s auditioning inspired her to succeed.

“When I heard about Dan Foster’s demise, it hurt me so much because I said I was going to look for him and hug him because his words were like sandpaper. They were rough but smoothened me,” she said.

“Dede helped with my confidence and helped me realise and maintain that the voice is there. He said ‘You have it, don’t let anyone tell you don’t have it; all you can do is work on it, harness it’. I told myself after West African Idol that I was going to work on myself and be so good that no-one will be able to question my craft.”

The ‘Colours and Sound’ crooner also recounted how she battled challenges growing up in a polygamous home with three mothers.

Niniola said she was able to surmount the challenges and work her way to greatness through hard work.

“Hard work is very important, and it will never go in vain. Just be yourself, and the world will listen to you,” she added.

Niniola has continued to pull the strings in the country’s entertainment industry with several beautiful projects.

She recently won the female category of ‘Best Vocal Performance’ at the 14th edition of The Headies.