Popular Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo received an unexpected and generous surprise from her daughter, Priscilla Ojo, on September 28, 2024. The emotional moment, which unfolded on a bustling movie set in Lagos, Nigeria, has captured the attention of fans and fellow celebrities alike.
As the sun beat down on the busy film location in Ikeja, Lagos, Iyabo Ojo was in the midst of shooting a scene for her upcoming movie when the unexpected occurred. The actress, known for her versatile roles in Yoruba cinema, was visibly shocked as a group of people approached her with an array of gifts.
I was completely taken aback,” Iyabo told this reporter, her eyes still glistening with tears of joy. “One minute I was in character, and the next, I was surrounded by flowers, balloons, and an envelope that I couldn’t believe was real.”
The surprise, orchestrated by Iyabo’s 25-year-old daughter Priscilla, included a stunning bouquet of red roses, a collection of designer gifts, and an envelope containing a staggering sum of 5 million Naira (approximately $6,500 USD).
Priscilla, who was unable to be present due to her commitments abroad, had arranged the surprise through Royal Hugs Surprises, a local event planning company specializing in celebrity gestures.
We’ve been planning this for weeks,” revealed Adebola Adeyemi, CEO of Royal Hugs Surprises. “Priscilla wanted to make sure everything was perfect for her mother. The timing and execution had to be flawless.”
Overwhelmed by emotion, Iyabo’s reaction was captured on video and later shared on her Instagram page, which boasts over 5 million followers. In the clip, the actress can be seen alternating between laughter and tears as she processes the magnitude of her daughter’s gesture.
“This child will make me cry,” Iyabo exclaimed in the video, her voice thick with emotion. “Priscilla, you didn’t have to do this. I’m so proud of you, my darling.”
In a moment of exuberance, Iyabo made a bold declaration that has set social media abuzz. Mark my words,” she announced to the gathered crowd, “Priscilla’s wedding in 2025 will be the talk of the town. We will shut down Nigeria!”
This statement has led to speculation about Priscilla’s relationship status, particularly regarding her boyfriend, Tanzanian musician Juma Jux. Neither Priscilla nor Jux have commented on the wedding plans mentioned by Iyabo.
The surprise gift is just the latest chapter in the well-documented close relationship between Iyabo and Priscilla. Despite Priscilla’s growing independence and budding career as a social media influencer, the bond between mother and daughter remains strong.
Iyabo and Priscilla’s relationship is truly special,” commented Funke Akindele, a fellow Nollywood actress and friend of the family. “They’re more like sisters sometimes. It’s beautiful to see.”
While Iyabo’s excitement about a potential 2025 wedding for Priscilla is evident, the actress has previously stated that she doesn’t want to pressure her daughter. In an interview earlier this year, Iyabo expressed her hope that Priscilla would follow in her footsteps by marrying young and starting a family.
“I got married at 21, and I wouldn’t mind if Priscilla does the same,” Iyabo had said. “But ultimately, it’s her decision. I’m just here to support her.”
The public display of affection between Iyabo and Priscilla has resonated with many in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Several celebrities took to social media to commend Priscilla’s gesture and Iyabo’s parenting.
This is what happens when you invest love and time in your children,” tweeted popular comedian Basketmouth. “Iyabo is reaping the fruits of her labor.”
As the day wound down on the movie set, Iyabo Ojo returned to work, her spirits visibly lifted by her daughter’s gesture. The incident serves as a touching reminder of the power of family bonds, even in the glitzy world of Nollywood.
While fans eagerly await more details about Priscilla’s rumored 2025 wedding, one thing is certain: the love between this Nollywood mother and daughter duo continues to captivate and inspire audiences both on and off the screen.