Ifunanya Nanyah Nwangene: 10 things to know about late singer

Ifunanya Nwangene, the 26‑year‑old Nigerian singer who rose to prominence on The Voice Nigeria, has tragically died after being bitten by a snake in her sleep in Abuja. Known for her powerful jazz‑operatic voice and creative versatility, Nwangene had been preparing for her first solo concert and new music releases before her sudden death on January 31, 2026. Her passing has sparked widespread sorrow among fans and fellow artists across Nigeria’s music scene.

1. Who Was Ifunanya Nwangene?

Ifunanya Nwangene was a Nigerian singer and former The Voice Nigeria contestant. Known professionally as Nanyah, she was a soprano whose vocal range and genre‑blending ability made her a distinctive presence in the music community.

2. Early Life and Origins

Born in Enugu and later based in Abuja, Nwangene was not just a singer — she was also trained as an architect, demonstrating both creative and academic talents. Her diverse background contributed to her artistic expression.

3. Breakthrough on The Voice Nigeria

Nwangene gained national prominence on Season 3 of The Voice Nigeria. Her jazz‑operatic rendition of Rihanna’s “Take a Bow” turned two chairs, showcasing her vocal versatility. Though she was eventually eliminated in the Knockout round, her performance left a lasting impression.

4. Musical Style and Influences

She was celebrated for blending genres — including jazz, opera, classical, and soul — into her music. This unique mix helped her stand out from her peers and win a dedicated following online, where she shared both covers and original music.

5. Online Presence and Growing Fanbase

Nwangene’s audition video on The Voice Nigeria and her subsequent music posts on social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram helped her build recognition beyond television. Her Voice audition alone has racked up tens of thousands of views.

6. Her Final Projects and Collaborations

Just days before her death, Nwangene teased a new music project with Nigerian artist Tbrass, hinting at exciting future releases and collaborations that her fans were eager to hear.

7. Tragic Circumstances of Her Death

On January 31, 2026, Nwangene died at 26 after being bitten by a venomous snake while asleep in her Abuja home. Two snakes were reportedly found in her residence, and footage circulated online of a handler removing one of the reptiles. She initially sought help at a local clinic that lacked antivenom, leading to a rushed transfer to the Federal Medical Centre, where she later passed away.

8. Controversy Over Medical Response

Her death sparked public attention to healthcare gaps in emergency response systems. Reports emerged that antivenom was unavailable at the first clinic she visited and only partially available at the hospital she was referred to. While the hospital denied negligence, the situation reignited debates about access to life‑saving treatments in Nigeria.

9. Official Confirmation and Public Reaction

The Amemuso Choir, where Nwangene sang as a soprano, confirmed her passing in a statement, describing her as a “rising star” who was on the verge of wider recognition. Tributes poured in from friends, fans, and collaborators, with many lamenting the loss of her talent and potential at such a young age.

10. Legacy and Cultural Impact

Though her career was cut short, Nwangene’s influence continues through her recordings, performances, and the genuine admiration of those in Nigeria’s music scene. Her genre‑blending artistry and aspirations — including plans for her first solo concert in 2026 — reflect a legacy that many believe was only beginning to unfold.

FAQ: Ifunanya Nwangene

Q1: Who was Ifunanya Nwangene?
A1: Ifunanya Nwangene, also known as Nanyah, was a Nigerian singer and former contestant on The Voice Nigeria, known for her jazz, opera, and soul‑influenced performances.

Q2: How did Ifunanya Nwangene become famous?
A2: She gained recognition after her Season 3 audition on The Voice Nigeria, where her rendition of Rihanna’s “Take a Bow” impressed audiences and judges alike.

Q3: What was her musical style?
A3: Nwangene blended jazz, opera, classical, and soul, making her a unique voice in the Nigerian music scene.

Q4: When did Ifunanya Nwangene die?
A4: She tragically passed away on January 31, 2026, at the age of 26.

Q5: How did she die?
A5: Nwangene died from a venomous snake bite while asleep in her Abuja home. Reports said two snakes were found in her residence.

Q6: What was she working on before her death?
A6: She had been preparing for her first solo concert and had been teasing new music projects, including collaborations with Nigerian artists like Tbrass.

Q7: Where was Ifunanya Nwangene from?
A7: She was originally from Enugu but lived in Abuja, where she pursued her music and professional training in architecture.

Q8: What is her legacy?
A8: Despite her short career, Nwangene left a mark through her genre‑blending music, inspiring upcoming Nigerian artists and leaving fans mourning the loss of her promising talent.

Q9: Did she have any formal training in music?
A9: While primarily known for her natural talent, Nwangene’s performances on platforms like The Voice Nigeria highlighted her strong vocal control and versatility, suggesting intensive self-training and practice.

Q10: How did fans and the music community react?
A10: Fans, fellow artists, and collaborators expressed shock and grief online, celebrating her talent and lamenting her untimely death. Tributes poured in across social media and news outlets.