Omawumi is a celebrated Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress whose powerful voice and vibrant performances have made her a prominent figure in Afro-pop, soul, and jazz. Rising to fame as the runner-up on West African Idols in 2007, she has built a multifaceted career in music, acting, and philanthropy, earning acclaim across Nigeria and beyond.
Omawumi Megbele Biography
| Real Name | Omawumi Megbele |
| Nickname | Omawumi |
| Famous As | Singer, Songwriter, Actress |
| Date of Birth | April 13, 1982 |
| Birthplace | Warri, Delta State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Ethnicity | Itsekiri |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Education | Bachelor’s Degree in Law, Ambrose Alli University |
| Height | 5’8” |
| Parents | Chief Dr. Frank Megbele and Mrs. Aya Megbele |
| Siblings | 14 siblings |
| Spouse | Tosin Yusuf |
| Children | 2 |
| Relationship | Married |
| Net Worth | $2 million |
Early Life and Education
Omawumi Megbele (born on April 13, 1982, 43 years old) is from Warri, Delta State, Nigeria, to Chief Dr. Frank Megbele and Mrs. Aya Megbele. Of Itsekiri ethnicity, she was raised in a Christian household.
Growing up in a polygamous family as the 12th of 15 children, she was primarily raised by her grandmother, who instilled resilience and independence.
Omawumi attended Nana Primary School and the College of Education Demonstration Secondary School in Warri, where she participated in the school choir and explored acting. She pursued higher education at Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma, Edo State, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Law in 2005.
Career
Nigerian singer Omawumi’s rise to prominence began in 2007 when she became the runner-up on West African Idols, a reality TV show on which her powerful vocals and stage presence captivated audiences.
Encouraged by her siblings, she transitioned from law to music, releasing her debut single, “In the Music,” in 2008. She followed this up with her first album, Wonder Woman, in 2009, featuring hits like “Love Nwantiti” and “Chocolata.”

Her sophomore album, Lasso of Truth (2013), was a commercial success in Nigeria, showcasing her blend of Afro-pop, soul, and jazz. She released Timeless (2017) and In Her Feelings (2019), and her fourth studio album, Love Deep High Life (2020), featured collaborations with artists like Phyno, Waje, Brymo, and Ric Hassani.
Omawumi has performed with industry giants such as P-Square, 2face Idibia, D’Banj, Banky W, and Angelique Kidjo.
Beyond music, she ventured into acting, debuting in the 2009 stage production V-Monologues, which addressed women’s issues in Nigeria. She followed this with roles in the Yoruba musical Olurombi and the AMAA award-winning film Inale (2010).
She starred in House of Gold (2013) with Ice Prince and co-produced and acted in She Is (2019) with Waje, contributing to its soundtrack. As a co-owner of Hermanes Media, she has expanded her influence in film production.
Omawumi is a brand ambassador for Globacom, Konga.com, and Malta Guinness and supports the “Rise with the Energy of Africa” campaign. Her philanthropy focuses on aiding orphans and vulnerable children in Nigeria.
Discography (Studio Albums):
- Wonder Woman (2009, Oma Records) – Includes “Love Nwantiti,” “Chocolata,” “In the Music”
- Lasso of Truth (2013, Oma Records)
- Timeless (2017, Roc Nation/Cabal Entertainment) – Includes “Play Na Play” (feat. Angelique Kidjo)
- In Her Feelings (2019, Hermanes Media)
- Love Deep High Life (2020) features Phyno, Waje, Brymo, and Ric Hassani, including “Lituation.”
Filmography (Acting):
- V-Monologues (2009, Stage) – Supporting Role
- Olurombi (2009, Stage) – Supporting Role
- Inale (2010) – Supporting Role
- Return of Jenifa (2011) – Supporting Role
- House of Gold (2013) – Supporting Role
- She Is (2019) – Supporting Role, Co-Producer
Awards and Nominations
- Won: Best Vocal Performance (Female), The Headies (2009, 2018)
- Won: Next Rated, Hip-Hop World Awards (2009)
- Won: Best Album, Nigeria Entertainment Awards
- Won Musician of the Year, Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards
Nominated: Best Female Artiste of the Year, ELOY Awards (2014)
Social Media
- Instagram Handle: @omawonder
- Facebook Handle: Omawumi
- Twitter Handle: @Omawumi
Personal Life
Omawumi Megbele married Tosin Yusuf, a real estate entrepreneur and former co-owner of Zamunda nightclub, on January 13, 2018, following a traditional ceremony in Warri.
They have two children, including daughter Emmanuella Kamillah Yusuf, who was born before their marriage when Omawumi was a “baby mama” for four years. The couple faced challenges, including a reported issue at Ikoyi Registry, but have maintained a strong relationship, celebrating their seventh anniversary in 2022.
Net Worth
Omawumi Megbele is a celebrated Nigerian singer and actress with an estimated net worth of $2 million. Her wealth is derived from her music career, including album sales, performances, and endorsements with brands like Globacom, Konga.com, and Malta Guinness.
Her acting roles, production work with Hermanes Media, and business ventures, such as her reported ownership of a ₦100 million mansion in Lekki, Lagos, and luxury vehicles like a 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML350 and a 2009 Kia Optima, contribute to her financial success.
FAQs
Did Omawumi win Nigerian Idol?
Omawumi did not win Nigerian Idol. She gained national recognition in 2007 as the runner-up.
Is Omawumi married?
Omawumi is married to Tosin Yusuf. The couple tied the knot on January 13, 2018.
Is Omawumi a lawyer?
Omawumi is a trained lawyer. She earned her law degree from Ambrose Alli University.


