Afropop star Niniola announces burial arrangements for late husband, Michael Ndika

By Folashade Olorunfemi –

Afropop star Niniola Apata has announced the burial arrangements for her late husband, Michael Ndika, who passed away on May 20, 2026.

The singer, who earlier disclosed her husband’s death on Instagram, used the platform on Saturday to unveil the funeral schedule after days of publicly mourning him.

According to the burial programme, a service of songs will hold on Thursday, June 4, 2026, while a funeral Mass is scheduled for Friday, June 5, 2026.

Expressing her grief, Niniola said she still finds it difficult to accept that her husband is gone. “I find myself waiting, expecting Michael to walk through the door. My best friend, my confidant, my pillar, my gossip partner, my laughter, my joy giver, my provider, my business partner, my husband, my brother… he was the air I breathe,” she said.

The singer added that she constantly looked forward to his return whenever he went out, noting that they were inseparable and that he always wanted her by his side.

Describing herself as a natural loner, Niniola said Michael was all she needed because of the significant role he played in her life emotionally, personally and professionally. “Michael was all that I needed because he was one in a million. He touched my life in different capacities, and God took him from me,” she said.

Although details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain unclear, Niniola announced Ndika’s passing on May 20 and has since received an outpouring of sympathy from fans and colleagues.

Ndika was the Chief Executive Officer of NaijaReview, a multimedia platform focused on Afro-house and African music. Niniola had previously revealed that they had been together for 13 years, describing their relationship as one built on companionship, friendship and unwavering support.