Soma Anyama

Somadina “Soma” Anyama was born on May 5, 1992, and grew up in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. He hails from Eluama in Ideato North Local Government Area, Imo State.

Early Life and Education

Somadina was raised in a close-knit Christian family, the first of three children, and grew up under the guidance of parents who were deeply involved in faith and the arts. His father served as a pastor, while his mother, Stella Anyama (popularly known as Stella Yama), was a renowned singer who, in the 1990s, made history as one of the first Nigerian artists to be signed to Sony Music.

Soma’s early exposure to music came directly from his mother. He often accompanied her to band rehearsals and studio sessions, where he sometimes joined as a backup vocalist. This environment shaped his passion for performance, creativity, and entertainment from a very young age. Growing up, he learned discipline and spirituality from his father, while his mother instilled in him the love for art and music, creating a balance that would later define his career.

For his education, Soma attended both his primary and secondary school in Port Harcourt, where he developed a strong interest not only in academics but also in science and technology. Beyond the classroom, he was fascinated by gadgets and creative projects, often experimenting with electronics and music at the same time.

After his secondary education, Soma proceeded to the University of Port Harcourt, where he pursued his tertiary studies. Nevertheless, it was during his university years that he began to seriously combine his academic pursuits with entertainment, performing music, engaging in creative projects, and gradually shaping himself into the multi-talented personality he is known as today.

Career

Early Foundations (Before 2017)

Before stepping into the limelight, Somadina “Soma” Anyama lived the life of a young creative in Lagos, hustling between paid jobs and his true passions. He worked as a graphic designer at Ariya Tickets, where he created flyers and visual concepts for events. But while design paid the bills, his heart remained in music. Soma’s mother, Stella Yama, a professional singer who once signed to Sony Music, had sown deep artistic seeds in him. She took him to rehearsals and band sessions as a boy, where he learned not just the technical side of music but also the discipline of performance.

His first major live appearance came at a showcase tagged “Ribbon & Roses” at Eko Hotels in Lagos. The event attracted heavyweights such as Omawumi and Sam Dede, and for Soma, it was the moment he realized he could hold an audience. This mix of background influences and early-stage experiences prepared him for the bold step into reality television.

Breakthrough with Big Brother Naija and First Music Release

Soma’s life changed in 2017 when he was selected as a housemate for Big Brother Naija Season 2 (See Gobbe). Although his time in the house was short, he was evicted on Day 14. It provided the visibility every young entertainer dreams of. In just two weeks, Soma’s charisma, musical talent, and youthful energy had introduced him to a national audience.

He immediately tapped into that momentum, releasing his debut single “Liquor”, produced by Sammy Gyang. The song gained attention within the Afropop and R&B scene, helping him shed the tag of “just another ex-housemate” and positioning him as a musician in his own right. That same year, he took a bold leap into Nollywood, landing a role in Funke Akindele’s Jenifa’s Diary. This move announced him as a multi-talented personality who could sing, act, and entertain beyond the reality TV stage.

Establishing an Acting Identity (2018 – 2022)

After his Big Brother exit, many expected Soma to fade away. Instead, he reinvented himself as an actor. In 2018, he secured the role of Dave in the family sitcom My Siblings & I, which aired on Africa Magic. His character quickly became a fan favorite, and the show gave him consistency, an anchor project that kept his face on television long after the Big Brother buzz died down.

During this period, Soma also took roles in Nollywood productions such as The Bunglers, Mentally, and Crossroads. His acting range, combined with his natural on-screen charm, helped him carve a niche as one of Nollywood’s promising young talents. Though his music was less prominent at this stage, his branding as an “actor-musician” kept both aspects of his artistry alive.

By 2021, Soma had fully immersed himself in Nollywood. He began taking on roles across genres—romance, comedy, and drama, showcasing his versatility. His credits during this period included films such as Charge and Bail, Once a Soldier, Occultic Kingdom, Miss Teacher, Beloved Sisters, and Spiteful Lovers. He also appeared in lighter productions like Power in Love, Cravings, and Ashes of Love, which demonstrated his ability to transition between serious and lighthearted roles with ease.

This era marked Soma’s establishment as more than just a former Big Brother contestant. He had become a working Nollywood actor, respected for his craft and constantly booked for projects.

Big Brother Naija All Stars and Career Reinvention (2023) 

In July 2023, Soma returned to the stage that had first given him recognition, Big Brother Naija, this time as part of the All Stars Season. Unlike his first outing, Soma lasted 64 days in the house and finished in 8th place. He also won the coveted Head of House title in Week 5 and pocketed ₦1,250,000 in prizes. More importantly, the show reintroduced him to a new generation of fans and solidified his relevance in the entertainment industry.

During and after the All Stars season, Soma remained active in Nollywood, appearing in projects such as Sidechic and The Life I Chose. His ability to maintain acting commitments while leveraging Big Brother’s visibility showed a professional balance that kept him in demand.

Continuity, Public Attention, and Challenges (2024 – Present) 

After Big Brother All Stars, Soma embraced his role as a public figure more deliberately. His Instagram following soared, and he took on brand endorsements, modeling gigs, and ambassadorial work. He continued to act in Nollywood films, expanding his credits and experimenting with different storylines.

However, 2024 also brought controversy. In November, his ex-girlfriend Hilda Dirisu accused him publicly of abuse, a story that generated heated debate online. While Soma did not make an immediate statement, the incident placed him under media scrutiny. Despite this challenge, his work in Nollywood and entertainment continued, reflecting his resilience and determination to remain relevant in a competitive industry.

Today, Soma Anyama stands as a multi-dimensional entertainer, an actor celebrated for his roles in television and Nollywood films, a singer remembered for his soulful R&B single “Liquor,” and a reality TV star who twice used Big Brother Naija as a springboard. His career is a testimony to reinvention: from a graphic designer in Lagos to a national television personality, and from an emerging musician to a recognized Nollywood actor.

Filmography

• The Bunglers (2017)
• Crossroads (2020)
• Close of Business (2025)
• Charge and Bail (2017)
• Mentally (2017)
• My Siblings & I (2018–present)
• Spiteful Lovers (2020)
• Miss Teacher (2020)
• My Best Friend Caused My Pain (2020)
• Power in Love (2020)
• Cravings (2020)
• Ashes of Love (2020)
• The Life I Chose (2023)
• Sidechic (2023)

Awards and Recognition 

Best Child Actor at the Africa Movie Academy Awards

Most Promising Actor in Nigeria at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award

Best New Act to Watch at the City People Entertainment Awards

Notable Collaborations 

• Funke Akindele – worked together in Jenifa’s Diary (2017).
• Jemima Osunde – co-starred in MTV Shuga Naija (2018).
• Timini Egbuson – featured alongside him in MTV Shuga Naija (2018).
• Sharon Ezeamaka – appeared together in MTV Shuga Naija (2018).
• Floyd Igbo – co-acted in Hook, Line, and Sinkah (Africa Magic Original).
• Charles Born – also in Hook, Line, and Sinkah.
• Elma Mbadiwe – worked together in Close of Business (Africa Magic Original, 2025).
• Uzoamaka Onuoha – co-starred with him in Close of Business.
• Sam Dede – shared the stage at Ribbon & Roses live showcase, early in his career.

Brand Partnerships 

• MTV Shuga Naija (Season 6) – Soma was cast in the award-winning drama series, marking a significant collaboration in his acting career.  
• PayPorte Fashion Ambassador – He was appointed as a fashion ambassador for PayPorte, the official sponsor of BBNaija, representing the brand in promotional activities.  
• Hook, Line, and Sinkah – Soma starred as “Sodiq” in this Africa Magic original series, collaborating with other leading actors like Floyd Igbo and Charles Born. 
• Close of Business (Africa Magic Series, 2025) – He featured in this upcoming corporate-drama as part of a star-studded ensemble cast.

Controversy

Like many entertainers who have passed through the spotlight of Big Brother Naija, Soma Anyama has not been entirely free from controversies. While his career has been marked by creativity and reinvention, his personal life, particularly in relationships, has occasionally drawn public scrutiny.

1. Allegations by Ex-Girlfriend

In November 2024, Soma’s name trended on social media after his ex-girlfriend, Hilda Dirisu, accused him of abuse. The allegations surfaced online when Hilda shared her story publicly, describing their relationship as toxic. In her words:

“He would switch from being the sweetest person to someone I barely recognized. I kept quiet for too long, but I can’t carry this burden anymore.”

The claims immediately sparked debates among fans and entertainment commentators. While some critics demanded accountability, others dismissed the accusations as an attempt to ride on Soma’s rising fame after his Big Brother Naija All Stars appearance.

Soma himself did not immediately respond to the accusations, a silence that fueled even more online conversation. Some fans argued that his refusal to address the matter was a way of protecting his career, while others saw it as an admission by omission. One social media user wrote:

“If Soma has nothing to hide, he should speak up. Silence is not always golden.”

Meanwhile, his loyal supporters defended him, emphasizing that allegations without evidence should not define a person’s reputation. A popular fan page tweeted:

“Soma is a hardworking young man. Until there’s proof, we stand by him. Everyone deserves fairness.”

The controversy inevitably affected Soma’s public image. Brands and fans began weighing the risks of associating with him, while gossip blogs kept recycling the story, keeping it alive in the media space. Entertainment commentators noted that the timing, so soon after his renewed fame on BBNaija All Stars, made the issue more damaging.

Despite the noise, Soma continued to appear in Nollywood projects and public events, suggesting that while the scandal dented his personal image, his professional commitments remained intact.

2. Relationship Saga with Angel Smith (2023 – 2024)

One of the most talked–about moments in Soma Anyama’s public life came during the BBNaija All Stars season in 2023, where he developed a romantic bond with Angel Smith. The pair’s chemistry was undeniable and soon became a trending topic among viewers. Their closeness sparked debates because Soma was perceived to be in a committed relationship outside the house at the time.

On several occasions in the house, Soma openly admitted how deeply he felt for Angel. In a moment that went viral, he told her:

“You bring me peace in a way I can’t explain. I don’t care what anyone outside thinks; I’m happy here with you.”

This confession fueled speculation that he had either broken ties with his longtime girlfriend before entering the house or was risking a very public fallout.

Viewers quickly split into factions. Supporters of “SomaGel” (as fans dubbed the duo) celebrated their romance, while critics accused him of being unfaithful. One Twitter user wrote:

“Soma is playing a dangerous game. You can’t claim loyalty to someone outside and still be cuddling Angel on national TV.”

Angel herself became a subject of trolling, with some accusing her of “snatching” Soma from his partner. However, she defended the relationship, saying in the house:

“We’re both grown. Whatever we feel is genuine. People outside can think what they want.”

After their eviction, both Soma and Angel tried to maintain the bond, appearing together at events and granting joint interviews. But whispers of tension soon emerged. By mid-2024, reports surfaced online suggesting that the relationship had fizzled, with insiders claiming that external pressures and social media toxicity made it difficult for them to continue.

Blogs began circulating headlines like “Soma and Angel Unfollow Each Other on Instagram” and “BBNaija’s Soma Silent as Angel Confirms Breakup”. In an Instagram Live session, Angel indirectly addressed the issue, saying:

“I’ve learned that not every love story is meant to last forever. Sometimes, it’s just meant to teach you something.”

Soma, on the other hand, remained mostly quiet, only sharing cryptic tweets such as:

“Peace of mind over everything else. Always.”

The saga cemented Soma’s image as both a romantic and a controversial figure. While it kept him relevant in conversations long after the show ended, it also divided his fan base. Some praised him for “following his heart,” while others criticized him for “breaking loyalty” to his pre-BBN relationship.

Personal Life

Somadina “Soma” Anyama has often described himself as a quiet, creative, and deeply reflective person outside the spotlight. Born in Imo State and raised partly in Port Harcourt, his upbringing instilled in him a love for music, art, and storytelling. He remains closely connected to his family, occasionally sharing warm tributes to his parents and siblings on social media.

Personality and Interests

Soma is multi-talented, aside from acting and singing, he is also a gifted sketch artist and enjoys drawing as a form of relaxation. He has repeatedly spoken about how music serves as his “first love” and a safe space, even when acting became his primary career driver. In interviews, he has emphasized his preference for peace and simplicity, saying:

“I don’t like chaos. I prefer to be in spaces where I can breathe, create, and be myself.”

Relationships

Soma’s romantic life has attracted significant public attention. Before entering Big Brother Naija in 2017, he was reported to have been in a long-term relationship, though details were largely kept private. His time in the BBNaija All Stars house in 2023 brought him into the spotlight again when he developed a high-profile relationship with fellow housemate Angel Smith. Their romance dominated conversations during and after the show, though it later faced challenges, leading to speculations about a breakup.

In late 2024, he was also entangled in controversy following accusations from an ex-girlfriend, Hilda Dirisu, which kept his personal life under scrutiny. Despite the drama, Soma has remained guarded, rarely offering direct statements about his love life.

Lifestyle

Though based in Lagos for work, Soma maintains a relatively low-profile lifestyle compared to many of his reality TV peers. He attends industry events selectively and prefers to use his social media to share snippets of his creative projects rather than personal drama.

He has described his ideal life as one that balances creativity, family, and personal growth, once tweeting:

“Fame fades. What lasts is the love you share and the art you leave behind.”

Religion & Beliefs

Soma is a Christian and often credits his faith as a grounding force in his life and career. He has expressed gratitude to God during interviews and in social media posts, particularly during career milestones. During his time in the Big Brother Naija house, he was seen joining in prayers and gospel music sessions, reinforcing his spiritual side. For him, faith represents not just religion but a lifestyle of discipline and inner peace.

Estimated Net Worth

Soma Anyama’s estimated net worth is placed around $100,000 – $200,000, earned from his work as an actor, musician, reality TV personality, and brand ambassador.

References

• KenInformationBlog, “Soma Anyama (Apex): Biography, Career, Relationship and Net Worth”
• MyTertiaryNews, “Soma Anyama Biography: Age, Career, Wife, Net Worth”
• Contents101, “BBNaija Soma Biography: Age, Career, Education…”
• Pmnewsnigeria.com, “BBNaija’s Soma Joins Jenifa’s Diary”
• Thenet.ng, “BBNaija’s Soma, Joy Join MTV Shuga Naija Cast”
• Punchng.com, “BBNaija Eviction: Soma Becomes PayPorte Ambassador”
• Naijaloaded.com.ng, “Soma Of Big Brother Naija Becomes PayPorte’s Fashion Ambassador”
• Thenet.ng, “Floyd Igbo, Charles Born, and Somadina Anyama Feature in New Africa Magic Series Hook, Line and Sinkah”
• Thenet.ng, “Elma Mbadiwe, Uzoamaka Onuoha, Somadina Anyama and Others Star in Africa Magic’s New Original Series Close of Business”
• Pmnewsnigeria.com, “Soma Apex Drops Debut Single ‘Liquor’”
• Legit.ng, “BBN’s Soma’s Ex-girlfriend, Hilda, Accuses Him of Abuse…”

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