Meet The Real Housewives of Lagos


The Real Housewives of Lagos (RHOLagos) follows the opulent lives of six of the most glamorous women in Lagos, Nigeria: businesswoman Carolyna Hutchings, influencer Laura Ikeji-Kanu, lawyer and luxury hair brand owner Chioma Ikokwu, celebrity stylist Toyin Lawani-Adebayo, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo and PR expert Mariam Timmer.

RHOLagos is the first Nigerian instalment – and 16th international version – of the award-winning franchise and follows the success of The Real Housewives of Johannesburg and Durban, both now streaming on Showmax. 

Meet Toyin Lawani-Adebayo

The serial entrepreneur Toyin Lawani-Adebayo is a renowned celebrity stylist, fashion designer, and business mogul who runs 33 businesses at Tiannah’s Place Empire.

Toyin is the author of The Business Mogul Guide. She also runs a charity organisation, The Toyin Lawani Foundation, which offers yearly scholarship programs for people with the dream of learning the art of fashion and styling. In addition, she trains and empowers physically challenged candidates.

She is a mother of three super-talented kids and married to musician and creative photographer Segun Wealth. Popularly also referred to as Tiannah, Toyin Lawani-Adebayo is well-known for her trendsetting moves. She does not hold back on making fashion statements with her designs on herself and superstars on the red carpet.

When it comes to fashion and business, Tiannah is surely a force to be reckoned with. Fans of The Real Housewives franchise received her announcement as part of Showmax’s The Real Housewives of Lagos (#RHOLagos) with excitement as Toyin is known to dish the drama.


Here’s what she had to say about being on #RHOLagos and her experience so far.


What attracted you to this franchise, and how did you feel when you got it?

It was more about women empowerment, strong women doing their things differently. It’s a platform where they can showcase themselves more. Many people also know I had my reality show, Tiannah’s Empire. I wanted to see other women in another light because it’s easy when you see people on social media. They sell themselves to you in a certain way, but when you mingle with them, you get to see them for who they are. I wanted to do that because there’s only one Tiannah.

In your own words, what does it mean to be a Real Housewife of Lagos?

I would not say the person has to be a Lagosian, but Lagos has to be in your bloodstream. I feel Lagos is hype, hustle, and sweat. Wherever we are, we want to run back to Lagos. That’s number one. Number two is you have to be a very hardworking, strong mother. She is someone who can juggle all her various businesses and home front because living in Lagos is not easy.

Can you describe your style?

You can’t put me in a box. I’m crazy, edgy, fun, and I can be classy. I can be anything, but you can’t put me in a box. I’m dramatic, edgy, gagarish, mad, but always classy.

What is the hardest part about being in front of the cameras?

This time around, it’s not only me. It’s with a lot of other opinionated women. It’s like when you sit down with a group of people, you want to talk about your ideas, and many people are talking at the same time. I always try to bring my opinions to the table, but it’s hard when many people are trying to speak simultaneously. So I think that’s one of the hardest things, especially when we all come together.

What are you 100% about?

Myself. Everything else seems fake sometimes. The only thing I know is real is me, who I am, and how I want to stay true to myself – my culture. I would not say that because the camera is in front of me, I start acting up, all posh. It still doesn’t mean that anybody else on this show is better than me or more classy than I am. The pedigree is on point.

What has been your highlight since you started shooting The Real Housewives of Lagos?

My highlight was when I went to the streets. You know me, I love the streets, the streets love me. I’m not for the streets, but I love them. There’s just something about the street that I love mingling with them. If you go to the bar beach, go to the mainland, everywhere. They call me Iya Rere because I pick boys up from the streets, adopt them, put them in my home, and give them jobs. I don’t look down on people and I blend with them easily.

So when we went back to the streets to celebrate my birthday, giving to the less privileged, I was so happy. My boys were singing for me, and it was just fun. It just brought back memories to me. I sat with them, and they played music for me. You know my background is also music. That just brought back a lot of memories.

Who in your life knows you the best and why?

My husband Segun Wealth knows me best. He knows me best because he is my best friend. If I’m sleeping and he is awake, you ask him, “What is she thinking right now in her sleep?”, he knows. “What colour suits her best? What hairstyle? What shoes would she wear with these clothes? What makeup?” He knows everything.

Why should audiences watch? What makes RHOLagos unique?

Watch it because of me, because I have something to offer.


Meet Carolyna Hutchings
 
Carolyna Hutchings, formerly known as Carolyna Danjuma or Ekanem, is no new name in the entertainment space. Following the debut of her first film, Deadly Care, in 2004, Carolyna became a household name in the Nigerian film industry until she decided to leave and focus on her family.

Hutchings is the CEO of Hutchings Limited, a real estate, oil and gas, and agriculture company. She is also the founder of Hopeville Foundation, an NGO that caters to women and children. 

The mother of three has been quiet over the years. Her comeback to the entertainment scene with Showmax’s The Real Housewives of Lagos (RHOLagos) has caused quite an interesting conversation on social media as people can’t wait to see what she’ll be bringing on.

Q&A

What attracted you to this franchise, and how did you feel when you got it?

What attracted me to this franchise was the name of the show itself, “The Real Housewives of …”, an international show I’d watched before. I was happy when I was called upon to be one of the cast, even though I was a bit sceptical because the other housewives were not revealed to me. I looked forward to meeting women from different industries and cultures, women I could learn from when it comes to business and etiquette. Overall I was happy to be on a new adventure and starting a new chapter in my life. 


In your own words, what does it mean to be a Real Housewife of Lagos?

A real housewife in modern terminology is a boss lady, a woman who is the neck of the home, supportive to her husband and his business, a virtuous woman who cares for her kids and domestic staff, runs a successful business – all of this she does seamlessly. She knows her worth and is focused on positive goals and her legacy. She believes in self-development. She keeps redefining the word “housewife”, changing the narrative that a woman’s place is only in the kitchen or bedroom. A housewife is a combination of all the departments a successful organic organisation desires to have as well as being a good mother and a loyal partner.  Lagos women have redefined the word “housewife” like the queens that they truly are. 

Can you describe your style?

My style is classy, clean, elegant. Due to the nature of my work – oil and gas, and construction – I am mostly seen in comfortable clothes, but for special occasions, I certainly make heads turn in awe of my fashion sense.

What is the hardest part about being in front of the cameras? 

The hardest part about being in front of the camera … there’s nothing hard about it, really. I won Best Actress and  I am also a multiple-award-winning producer. Being in front of the camera is a part of me. Though since starting the show it sometimes feels invasive, but I am getting back to my first love gradually .. which is entertaining my audience. 

What are you 100% about?

I am 100% certain that the show will be entertaining, motivating and educational.

What has been your highlight since you started shooting The Real Housewives of Lagos?

Since we started shooting, my best part was when we first went to the beach for a Housewives event. That was my best part. It was very organic, positive, and everyone was friendly. So, that was my best part of the show so far. I like positive vibes. 

Who in your life knows you the best and why?

My kids know me best, they have been through it all with me. When I am silent, they know my thoughts, that is how well they know me. 

Why should audiences watch? What makes RHOLagos unique? 

The Real Housewives franchise is not just entertaining – you get to see how women from diverse cultures strive hard each day to keep their homes and businesses together. You get to see strong, determined women who have walked through the hurdles of life break every glass wall they encounter. Regardless of what life has thrown at them, they chose to be happy, successful, supportive and determined to dispel the myth that women do not support women. The Real Housewives of Lagos is a must-watch. You will be able to relate to one or two ladies. You learn a thing or two, are entertained, realise life’s too short and you have to make the world your runway. Turn those lemons into lemonade. 

What makes RHOLagos unique?

Real women, real-life stories, real drama, real pain and laughter. Women that are determined to rise, women who believe in women empowerment and supporting their home. The fashion, the luxury – everything is real and undiluted. 


 Meet Laura Ikeji-Kanu  
Laura Ikeji-Kanu is a social media influencer, author, and entrepreneur. She is a mother of two, married to former Super Eagles star Christopher Kanu.

Laura is popularly known for influencing and bringing joy and laughter. She is also the author of How to Make Money on Instagram.

Q&A With Laura

What attracted you to this franchise, and how did you feel when you got it? 
I was very excited. I thought it would be effortless, but it’s not easy having people come and see your space, mainly because I’m private. I don’t allow many people in my space. I’ve done that now, and they know what I’ve been hiding for years. People don’t know that I have my other side. I’m always laughing and playing, but I have another side. This show has brought me out, so I want to apologise in advance. 

In your own words, what does it mean to be a Real Housewife of Lagos?
I see the glam. You have to be rich and probably famous in your circle. You have to be very patient because you’re going to hang out with people you don’t like. People get to see what you don’t want them to see. You also have to own something, a business or something. Deal with people that you don’t deal with on a regular day. Hang out with people you don’t necessarily like and who don’t like you, and you lose your privacy.

Can you describe your style?
My style is edgy. My style is not forced. I don’t care about the bling-bling; it’s not my thing. My style is futuristic, young, fun, edgy and vogue. 

What is the hardest part about being in front of the cameras? 
Having people know the other side of me is something I never wanted anybody to see. I lost my cool a few times, and I’m going to lose my cool somewhere, and it’s not something I enjoy. I just want people to know me for what I do, sharing happiness, beauty, laughter, joy. 

What are you 100% about?
I think I’m the only person that said to someone, “I don’t really like you, and I know you don’t like me”, and I said it in front of them. They are still going to hear about all this stuff eventually. So I don’t like to talk behind people’s backs. I love to say things in front of them. So, yeah, I’ve said some things a few times. I’ve told them, “I really don’t send you.”

Who in your life knows you the best and why?
My mom knows me even when I’m smiling because I cover a lot of stuff. When I’m sad, I’m probably smiling. My mom knows when I’m really smiling and when I’m crying. So, my mom, for sure. 

Why should audiences watch? What makes RHOLagos unique? 
You just get to see people out of Instagram and its glitz, glam, lies and what people want to show. On Instagram, when I’m mad, I still post happy videos, but on this show, when I’m mad, I’m angry, and you see it. Also, Lagos is full of lies, pretence, and backstabbing. I think you guys will see that on the show a lot. 

 Meet Chioma Ikokwu  

Chioma Ikokwu is a lawyer, co-founder, and CEO of the luxury hair brand Good Hair Ltd. She also co-owns a restaurant and lounge called Brass and Copper. She runs a women and children-focused charity called the Goodway foundation and is quite popular on social media for her fashion, luxury, lifestyle, and influence. Chioma is the only member of Showmax’s The Real Housewives of Lagos cast that has never been married. 

Despite that, she’s only one in several women across the ‘Real Housewives’ franchise that have never been married, just like LaConco in Durban, who was engaged for two years before she called it off. She’s also the only cast member that doesn’t have any children, which means she brings a unique angle into the show. 

Q&A

What attracted you to this franchise and how did you feel when you got it? 

I thought it was an exciting opportunity when I heard about the Real Housewives of Lagos. I mean, who doesn’t know Real Housewives? First of all, I was like, umm but I’m not married, so it doesn’t make any sense. I’m not technically a housewife. Then I decided, “actually let’s see what happens. Let’s see what opportunities it presents. Let’s see what the other ladies are saying. Maybe they could add value to my life or perhaps I could add to theirs” 

On meeting the ladies for the first time when we started shooting I was a little bit shocked at the selection of women and assumed that we would have absolutely nothing in common as we’re all from very different backgrounds and works of life. However, as I’ve gotten to know some of these women better I’m happy to be a part of such an interesting project. It’s going great. Everyone’s relaxed and vibing. I’m super excited.

In your own words, what does it mean to be a Real Housewife of Lagos?

So, because I’m not a housewife, it can’t just be about being a housewife. Heck, hardly any of these women are literal “housewives”. I honestly think being a Real Housewife of Lagos means being a boss-babe, a go-getter, and making that paper and that’s definitely my thing. 

Can you describe your style?

I think that my style is classy, sophisticated, and sometimes edgy.

 Meet Iyabo Ojo  

Iyabo Ojo is a famous Nollywood actress, producer, TikTok sensation, brand influencer, entrepreneur, founder and president of Pinkies Foundation, and CEO of Fepris Limited. Ojo is divorced and a mother of two. Showmax recently announced her as one of the cast members of The Real Housewives of Lagos (RHOLagos). After the announcement, many fans praised the idea of having Iyabo on the show.  

Q&A

What attracted you to this franchise and how did you feel when you got it?
It’s the exposure for me and getting to know more people, meet more people, and interact with more ladies like myself. 

I was also super excited to join the cast because I wasn’t expecting it to come through. I was just super-excited, and I couldn’t wait to meet everyone else. I was so nosy and wanted to know who the housewives were. 

In your own words, what does it mean to be a Real Housewife of Lagos?
It means you have to be either married, have kids, or be a hard-working lady – a force to be reckoned with, a fashion icon and just a lovely person.

Can you describe your style?
My style is very casual, very me. I have a busy schedule, so I always like to dress very comfortably. Even when I’m casually dressed, I want to add a bit of fashion. So, I’m casually dressed but at the same time not too simple in case I need to go somewhere unplanned. But I am always all glam and sexy on the red carpet.

Who in your life knows you the best and why?
My kids know me best. They’ve been with me forever. I’m very transparent, like an open book, and I don’t hide my feelings. I’m also very blunt, and so they know me. They know the good side and bad side. They know everything about me. Even when I try to hide my feelings from the public, I can never hide them from my kids. 

They’ve seen me at every point in my life, especially as they grow. When they were much younger, I kept a lot of pain away from them because I was all about teaching them love and wanted them to be comfortable in themselves. I didn’t want them to feel or carry anybody’s pain or disappointment.

I hid a lot of myself when they were growing up, but as they became teenagers, I started allowing them to see many things and get to know a lot of me. I wanted to make sure they wouldn’t run away from me. I achieved that, especially with my girl child. We’re so close, and she tells me things that amaze me. I love it! 

What is the hardest part about being in front of the cameras? 
The hardest part of being in front of the camera is trying not to make mistakes or say things you’re not supposed to say. You’re very careful with your words because sometimes, what you say may be different from what you’re trying to explain and how the audience will interpret it. It’s happened to me a lot. I say some things, and people are like, “oh, she said this”, which was not what I meant. But it gets better, and you get used to it.

What are you 100% about?
I’m 100% authentic about my life. I’m not 100% real about my relationship, though. I’m keeping that private and I have my reasons for that. So that, in case we break up, people won’t count it. Apart from that, I’m 100% real about every other thing.

What has been your highlight since you started shooting The Real Housewives of Lagos?
My highlight and funniest moment since we started shooting was when I was trying to get into the pool. You need to watch that video. I was so afraid because I have a fear of water. I really didn’t know how to swim, and that was very funny for me because that was real. I was terrified. But I did get into the water, eventually.

Why should audiences watch? What makes RHOLagos unique?
They need to watch this show because they get to see the real me. My fans will know that I’m not all trouble. 

They get to see the natural and fun part of me. You get to see more of me because I tried to be as authentic as possible. So, they get to understand me. What can get Iyabo angry, and what cannot get her angry? What she likes and doesn’t like. You get to see all the other ladies too. I didn’t know many of them and their kind of personalities until the show started. You’ll see drama, glam, and fashion.


 Meet Mariam Timmer

Mariam Timmer is a PR expert and chief executive director at Six Sixteen Agency. She’s the creative director at Lure Fashion Limited, an online retail fashion line, an online content creator, YouTuber, and entrepreneur. Mariam is the mom of a beautiful daughter and is married to John Timmer.

Fans met her announcement as part of Showmax’s The Real Housewives of Lagos with anticipation because they expect her to bring extra spice to the show.

Q&A

What attracted you to this franchise, and how did you feel when you got it?

My mum told me to start a reality show about eight years ago because I’m naturally funny. Other people also used to ask me to create a reality show, and I love watching reality shows. So when I got approached for this, I thought, since people have been saying I should do it, I might as well go for it, and here I am. Twenty-four hours later, we had finalised the deal.

Being asked to be a part of this was a shock, but I was excited. I was more concerned and looked forward to how the other cast members would feel about this because they didn’t know I was coming. I loved my introduction to the show. They were having a party, and I just came in. It was exactly what I was expecting, and I was like, “Yes, b*tches. Close your mouth, close it.” But that was precisely the expression I was waiting for, and I got it. They might have said something behind my back. 

In your own words, what does it mean to be a Real Housewife of Lagos?

It means you’re married, in a relationship, or a single mother. Or you’ve been married before or have that stability. You must also be a business-minded person, a people’s person, knowing how to talk to people and approach them nicely. You’re in control of yourself. 

Not everyone is married, even with other franchises, but they know the process. They have the ability and character. I’m sure everybody on the show right now was handpicked based on their personality. Yes, I’m married, but you must have the essence and the whole package. 

Can you describe your style? 

My style is very sexy. I like myself sexy, chic, and classy. Some people say, “Oh, Mariam is very extra.” Yes, I am. But being extra for me means rocking jeans or leggings and T-shirts and still looking fly. It has to be chic, classy, and sexy. I have to be elegant.

What is the hardest part about being in front of the cameras?  

I’ve always been in front of a camera, thanks to my life in PR. I’m an influencer outside PR, but I stopped doing that in 2017. I had to take myself out of the scene when my husband and I decided to start a family. It was a conscious effort. Before, I used to do red carpets, interviews, and guest appearances on Spice TV. I did this consistently before 2017, but it’s different right now because it’s my real life out there. 

Then it was talking about someone’s fashion, but now it’s my life, and I have to watch what I say. I don’t have any secrets; what you see is what you get. You might not like it, but you will get to like it. You will love me. I say it the way it is; I don’t fake it.


What are you 100% about?

I’m 100% real when it comes to me. This Mariam Timmer is 100%, and everybody that knows me knows that. This is what you get. I say this every time that trying to fake it is like trying to change myself. So when it comes to something 100% authentic – it is me, my personality. 

What has been your highlight since you started shooting The Real Housewives of Lagos?

The funniest moment was the one I shared with my daughter. She couldn’t stop laughing. She has my sense of humour. I like the teams too because they are excellent, respectful, and calm. I get along with everyone on the crew.

Who in your life knows you the best and why? 

My mom and sister. I’m incredibly close to my mom. My mom understands me deeply. She’s my best friend. For my sister, we are like twins. Before my husband, she was my soulmate. I can dish rubbish with my sister, and she’ll accept me. She understands me and always knows what I’m thinking. Growing up, my mum used to dress us in matching clothes, and people would think we were twins. We’re always in sync.

Why should audiences watch? What makes RHOLagos unique?  

It’s going to be unique because RHOLagos is something that has never been done before. Lagos is the first West African country to have this franchise, and I feel like it will put us on the map. 

If we keep our A-game on and entertain the audience and the viewers, we’ll be on the same level as The Real Housewives of Atlanta. They will have to bring Lagos on board if they’re making OG cast trips. 

Catch Mariam Timmer on The Real Housewives of Lagos on Showmax from April 8, with new episodes every Friday.

Queen

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