Veteran Nigerian music icon Queen Salawa Abeni marked her 65th birthday on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, with celebrations attended by her children, family members, and close associates.
Born on May 5, 1961, in Ijebu Waterside, the celebrated entertainer rose from modest beginnings to become widely recognised as Nigeria’s “Queen of Waka Music.” Her journey in the entertainment industry remains one of resilience, talent, and cultural impact.
Queen Salawa Abeni began her music career at a young age and released her debut album in 1976 under Leader Records. The project was dedicated to the late Nigerian military Head of State, Murtala Ramat Mohammed, who was assassinated in 1976. The album made history as the first by a female Yoruba singer to sell more than one million copies in Nigeria.
Over the decades, the Waka music legend built a reputation for delivering socially conscious and culturally rich music that resonated with audiences across generations. Starting her musical journey at just 13, she broke barriers in a male-dominated industry and established herself as one of the country’s most respected female performers.
Beyond her contributions to music, Queen Salawa Abeni also made notable appearances in Nollywood, further strengthening her status as a cultural icon and pioneer in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Her influence continues to inspire younger artists and preserve the legacy of Waka music in contemporary African culture.