When it comes to one of Naija’s biggest music stars, Iyanya is certainly one of them. The dude is loved from Lagos to London to everywhere else.
His career might not currently be that banging, but in his glory days, those who know know. The hustle obviously paid off wella then that he owns plush houses and cruises in top-of-the-range rides.
With hit albums like Kukere, Desire and Applaudise, omo, the guy’s music tracks made parties bubble like mad o! If only he were still doing music like before. I don’t even think he’s still doing music at all. That one na story for another day.
But then, every party turned up back then, all because of Iyanya; he captured the hearts of Nigerians. Endorsement deals couldn’t stop coming his way. He also had a memorable stint with MTN Project Fame when he won the very first edition in 2008.
Biography of Iyanya
Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk grew up in a home where music was life and life was music. It was like eating daily bread.
When he was a small boy, his smooth voice and stage vibe would make people stop to listen to Iyanya sing.
After graduating from secondary school at Calabar High School, he went on to study Business Management at the University of Calabar.
Even though he was serious about school (so he claimed anyway), his heart was always in music. Until 2008, when he got that breakthrough I told you about earlier: winning the first season of MTN Project Fame West Africa.
That win put him in the spotlight, and from that day, doors began to open left, right and center. The poor guy still dey grind steady for Naija music scene… somehow sha!
Age and Personal Life
Iyanya no be small pikin again o. Person wey them born on October 31, 1986 should be 35 years old now.
Despite the fame, he has managed to keep it real and down-to-earth.
His fans – and colleagues too – love him for his warm personality, though he keeps his personal life on the low.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Iyanya’s net worth sits around $5 million.
Bulk, did I say bulk? All of his money (e get another work wey hin dey do?) is from his hit songs, albums, and big brand deals. Partnerships with major companies have added plenty money to his bank account. Obviously, collab with top companies don add enuff to him pocket.
Houses and Cars
Iyanya owns several properties across Nigeria and even abroad.
The guy sabi cars well well, no be small. He rolls in rides like Mercedes-Benz, Range Rover, and Bentley. You think these are just cars—they are proof of his wealth and success.
State of Origin and Education
Iyanya is a proud son of Calabar in Cross River State, Nigeria.
If you notice, you will see that the rich culture and music of Cross River do influence his sound and style of music.
Like I said before, he finished secondary school at Calabar High School and later collected a degree in Business Management from the University of Calabar.
Relationships
Iyanya keeps his love life mostly private. Nobody knows what exactly he’s up to when it comes to girlfriends or wife or wives or concubine(s).
Although there was a time when people were gossiping that he and Ghanaian actress Yvonne Nelson were a thing. Meanwhile, other relationships rumoured about him have stayed under wraps.
Albums and Music
Iyanya has dropped about four studio albums and bangers over the years.
His first album, My Story, released in 2009, had hits like “Love Truly” and “No Time” in it.”
The second album Iyanya made, Desire, back in 2013, featured “Kukere,” a song that became an anthem in Naija clubs and streets. It was what you can call a club banger.
Later albums like Applaudise and Signature confirmed Iyanya as one of Naija’s top music stars.
Latest Songs and Career Updates
Somehow sha, Iyanya don dey carry last for hits these days. For some time now, we’ve not heard anything from him; he hasn’t kept the hits coming.
With tracks like “Fever” and “Biko”, where he switched styles but still kept Naija fans grooving, you can see that it’s been quite a while. We need something new, Iyanya.
And if you’ve ever been to his live shows, they are always packed, full of energy, and fans no dey ever go home dull.
Family Background
Iyanya’s parents spotted his talent early and gingered him to chase it.
But sadly, both his mother and father died in 2008—his mum at 42 and his dad at 50. One love, bro!
Endorsements and Brand Work
For some time now, Iyanya has worked with big brands and given support to music campaigns.
Iyanya was made the face for MTN Project Fame and has partnered with other companies, lending his voice and star power.
MTN Project Fame
I don’t know how many times I will have to say this, but MTN Project Fame was a major turning point for this dude.
That show gave Iyanya a stage to shine and connect with fans everywhere.
Winning the first season opened doors and launched him on the road to becoming one of Naija’s music legends. What more can I tell you?
Article updated 5 days ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
