Chidinma Ekile

Chidinma Ekile, known professionally as Chidinma, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress, born on May 2, 1991, in Ketu, Lagos State. Hailing from Imo State, she grew up in Ikorodu and began singing at the age of six. Chidinma Ekile, the sixth of seven children, was raised by a disciplinarian father and a supportive mother.

Chidinma attended primary and secondary school in Ketu before moving to Ikorodu with her family. After completing her secondary education, she aspired to study Mass Communication but eventually obtained a degree in Sociology from the University of Lagos.

In pursuit of her dreams, Chidinma auditioned for Project Fame West Africa, fulfilling a long-held dream of being part of the renowned music reality show. Her exceptional talent and dedication led her to the Fame Academy, where she underwent rigorous training under the guidance of music professionals, ultimately winning the competition. Her victory earned her several prizes, including ₦2.5 million, a 2011 Toyota RAV4, and a production deal.

After her Project Fame success, Chidinma released her debut studio album titled "Chidinma," which featured collaborations with top Nigerian artists such as Sound Sultan, Olamide, and others. The album's hit songs, including "Jankoliko," "Kedike," and "Run Dia Mouth," solidified her position in the music industry. Her unique voice and captivating performances endeared her to fans across Nigeria and beyond.

Chidinma's exceptional talent was recognized with several awards, including the Best Female West African Act at the 2012 Kora Awards. She received her award plaque from football legend Didier Drogba. Her infectious hit song "Kedike" also earned her accolades and further solidified her status as one of Nigeria's leading female musicians.

Beyond music, Chidinma ventured into acting, making her debut in Kunle Afolayan's film "The Bridge." Her acting skills were well-received, adding another dimension to her creative repertoire.

Additionally, she became the brand ambassador and social media influencer for the feminine hygiene brand Molped in Nigeria, further expanding her influence beyond the music industry.

In May 2021, Chidinma announced a significant shift in her music career as she made a transition to gospel music. She released her first gospel single, "Jehovah Overdo," along with a music video. The song received positive acclaim for its mellow groovy praise and uplifting message. Embracing her faith, Chidinma revealed that she was now engaged in Christian ministry, proclaiming her dedication to serving God through her music.

With newfound inspiration, Chidinma released her debut gospel extended play (EP) titled "New Season" on August 20, 2021. The EP, produced entirely by EeZee Tee, comprises seven tracks that reflect her deep connection to the Holy Spirit and her commitment to spreading the message of faith and worship.

Building on the success of her gospel journey, Chidinma released her second studio album, "Psalm 16," on October 14, 2022. The album features collaborations with artists like KS Bloom, Indira, and Buchi, showcasing her growth as a gospel artist and her ability to deliver soul-stirring performances.

Aside from her musical accomplishments, Chidinma is committed to making a positive impact on society. She founded the NMA Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to helping visually impaired children and young people across Africa. The foundation's name derives from the last three letters of her name, reflecting her desire to use her platform to make a difference in the lives of others.