Entertainment

Iyanya Recalls Missing Nigerian Idol Finals Due to School Exams, Now Returns as Judge

Posted by Gistsnaija. on 17 June, 2025 | under Entertainment
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Afrobeats star Iyanya has opened up about a major turning point in his early music career—his first audition for Nigerian Idol. He recalls missing Nigerian Idol as a pivotal moment in his journey.

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Speaking in a recent interview with Hip TV, the singer revealed that he was selected during the Calabar auditions for the maiden season of the music reality show in 2007. Interestingly, he was chosen alongside Omawumi. Omawumi later emerged as the first runner-up of that season. The season was indeed memorable. Iyanya recalls missing Nigerian Idol as a unique experience.

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Iyanya, however, explained that he was unable to proceed to the final stage of Nigerian Idol because it coincided with his final year examinations at the university. The conflict led him to forfeit the competition and focus on completing his education. His commitment to studies led to Iyanya recalling missing Nigerian Idol as a tough choice.

Despite the setback, the singer bounced back stronger the following year. He won the debut edition of Project Fame West Africa. This achievement launched him into mainstream success.

Now, years later, both Iyanya and Omawumi have come full circle as they sit side by side as judges on the current season of Nigerian Idol. Reflecting on the journey, Iyanya expressed pride in how far they’ve come from their audition days in Calabar to becoming music industry mentors.

His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists. It proves that setbacks can often lead to greater opportunities with patience and perseverance.