A heartwarming moment has taken the Nigerian entertainment world by storm after broadcaster and philanthropist Oriyomi Hamzat gifted veteran actress Iya Niwe a fully furnished apartment. The surprise gesture, captured in photos and videos shared online, showcased the emotional reaction of the beloved Yoruba actress, touching the hearts of countless netizens across social media platforms.
This act of kindness not only highlights the generosity of Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat but also underscores the enduring legacy of Iya Niwe, whose contributions to Nollywood and the Yoruba film industry have left an indelible mark on generations of fans.
The event unfolded when Iya Niwe returned from a spiritual trip to Jerusalem. Little did she know that upon her arrival in Nigeria, she would be greeted with one of the most unforgettable surprises of her life. CEO of Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat, organized a grand housewarming ceremony outside the newly renovated apartment, complete with balloons, well-wishers, and an overwhelming sense of joy.
As the veteran actress received the keys to her new home, she was visibly moved to tears. Clutching the media personality tightly, Iya Niwe expressed her gratitude through heartfelt words and gestures. Videos circulating online revealed her astonishment as she stepped inside the beautifully decorated space, still grappling with the reality of becoming a homeowner once again.
Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat, known for his community-focused initiatives, shared the details of this generous gift via Instagram. In a post, he wrote: “The Chairman of Agidigbo FM in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, Dr Oriyomi Hamzat, today surprised and gifted a new house to legendary Nollywood actress and member of the popular Kokoro Alate programme, Abigail Oladeji, popularly known as Iya Niwe.” He added, “Dr Oriyomi Hamzat presented the house keys to Iya Niwe shortly after her return to Nigeria from Jerusalem.
These words resonated deeply with fans who admired both the giver’s compassion and the recipient’s resilience.
Born Abigail Oladeji, Iya Niwe is a household name in the Yoruba movie industry. With a career spanning decades, she has entertained audiences with her comedic flair and dynamic performances in classic films like *Agogo Idanile* (1991) and *Osumare* (1995). Her portrayal of relatable characters earned her widespread acclaim and cemented her status as a cherished figure in the entertainment world.
However, behind the laughter and applause lies a story of struggle and perseverance. In recent years, Iya Niwe faced financial difficulties that forced her to retreat to her village, where she turned to farming as a means of survival. Speaking about these challenges in a 2024 interview, she revealed how Oriyomi Hamzat intervened, encouraging her to return to acting full-time. “Thank you Hamzat,” she said. “I was into farming already when Hamzat insisted I stopped. I went back to Ikire after I was sent out of my house in Ibadan because I couldn’t afford rent.
Her journey serves as a testament to the struggles faced by many artists, particularly those from earlier generations who laid the foundation for today’s thriving Nollywood industry. Despite the hardships, Iya Niwe remained steadfast, continuing to inspire others through her work and unwavering spirit.
Oriyomi Hamzat’s gesture exemplifies the growing trend of philanthropy within Nigeria’s entertainment sector. As the industry flourishes, there is increasing recognition of the need to support its pioneers and ensure their welfare. This act of kindness not only honors Iya Niwe’s contributions but also sets a precedent for other stakeholders in the arts community.
By gifting her a home, Hamzat ensured that Iya Niwe could focus on her craft without worrying about basic needs. Such interventions are crucial in preserving the dignity of veteran artists and recognizing their invaluable role in shaping the cultural landscape of the nation.
Moreover, the public response to this event reflects the deep connection between entertainers and their audience. Fans took to social media to express their admiration for both parties involved, with many praising Hamzat for his selflessness and celebrating Iya Niwe’s renewed opportunity to thrive. Comments ranged from expressions of gratitude to calls for more initiatives aimed at uplifting struggling artists.
While the physical gift of a home is undoubtedly significant, its symbolic value extends far beyond bricks and mortar. For Iya Niwe, receiving this apartment represents more than just a place to live—it signifies hope, validation, and renewed purpose. It reminds her—and all who follow her story—that even in times of adversity, kindness can restore one’s faith in humanity.
In a broader sense, this gesture challenges societal norms regarding success and worth. Too often, older generations of artists are overlooked or forgotten as newer talents emerge. However, figures like Oriyomi Hamzat remind us that true greatness lies in acknowledging and supporting those who paved the way for progress.
For younger artists watching this unfold, it reinforces the importance of giving back and paying respect to industry veterans. By honoring pioneers such as Iya Niwe, the next generation ensures that the rich history of Nigerian entertainment continues to thrive.
At its core, this story celebrates the power of community and culture. The Yoruba film industry, in particular, thrives on its ability to bring people together through storytelling and shared experiences. Iya Niwe’s career epitomizes this spirit, as her work transcends mere entertainment to foster connections among diverse audiences.
Similarly, Oriyomi Hamzat’s involvement in promoting cultural heritage through platforms like Agidigbo FM aligns perfectly with the values of inclusivity and mutual support. His decision to honor Iya Niwe demonstrates a commitment to preserving the essence of Yoruba traditions while embracing modern approaches to upliftment.
As the celebration surrounding this event continues, it becomes clear that acts of kindness have the power to transcend individual lives and create ripples of positivity throughout society. Whether through art, philanthropy, or simple gestures of goodwill, we all play a part in building a world where everyone feels valued and supported.
The story of Iya Niwe and Oriyomi Hamzat serves as a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we choose to extend a helping hand. It encourages us to look beyond surface-level achievements and recognize the sacrifices made by those who came before us. Furthermore, it inspires future generations to carry forward the torch of creativity and compassion.
In a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape, maintaining a sense of unity and appreciation for our roots is essential. Initiatives like this not only celebrate the past but also pave the way for a brighter future—one where every artist, regardless of age or background, receives the recognition and support they deserve.
As Iya Niwe embarks on this new chapter of her life, her story will undoubtedly continue to inspire countless others. And as Oriyomi Hamzat leads by example, his actions remind us all that true success lies not in personal gain but in the difference we make in the lives of others. Together, they embody the best of what Nigerian culture has to offer: warmth, generosity, and an unshakable belief in the power of human connection.
