As the world welcomed a New Year, several Nigerian celebrities joined the celebrations by marking their birthdays on January 1, 2026.

The list of celebrities born on this day includes prominent Nollywood actors and actresses, as well as reality TV stars.

On their Instagram pages to mark the occasion, the celebrities shared messages of gratitude and excitement for the year ahead.

Ibrahim Yekini, also known as Itele, celebrated his birthday with a heartfelt post, reflecting on his journey and looking forward to new victories and global impact.

He wrote, “Happy Birthday to me, Ibrahim Abiodun Bakare Yekini (Iteledicon). Today, January 1st, the universe welcomed a dreamer, a fighter, a creator, and a legend in the making. I celebrate not just another year of life, but every battle I survived, every vision I dared to believe, and every soul I’ve inspired through my craft.

“From Nollywood to the world, my story is still being written — louder, bolder, greater. I am walking in purpose, crowned with grace, and backed by destiny. Here’s to new levels, new victories, new movies, and unstoppable blessings. Here’s to a year of global impact, deeper wisdom, and overflowing favor”.

Moyo Lawal, a popular actress, who shared a picture on social media, reflected on her journey and looking forward to new adventures.

She wrote, “Happy birthday Moyobaby. Gods favorite angel. Born to shine”.

Mercy Aigbe, who turned 48, expressed gratitude for God’s grace and favor, declaring the new year one of alignment and answered prayers.


She wrote, “Happy Birthday to me. Today, I’m grateful for God’s grace that sustained me, His mercy that covered me and His favor that carried me through every season. This past year reminded me that even when I didn’t understand, God was still intentional about me—protecting me, shaping me, and keeping me standing. As I step into this new chapter, I do so with hope and faith. Hope for healing, peace, and clarity. Faith that every God-given desire in my heart will find fulfillment in His perfect time.

“I declare this new year one of alignment, answered prayers, divine favor, and quiet joy. Happy birthday to a woman still standing, still growing, and deeply grateful for God’s grace”.

Reality TV star, Venita Akpofure, also announced her birthday on Thursday.


The Big Brother Naija 2019 housemate wrote on Instagram, “Another year. Another chapter. Grateful for life, growth, and my a year PACKED full of so many FIRSTS! Speaking on Firsts, Come with me on this New Year’s journey.”

Other notable celebrities celebrating their birthdays on New Year’s Day include Mustapha Sholagbade, Reality TV stars Nengi Hampson and Frodd.

The celebrities’ social media posts were filled with messages of gratitude, hope, and excitement for the year ahead, as they celebrated another year of life and the opportunities that come with it.