Christiana Uduak Essien-Igbokwe, known affectionately as "Nigeria's Lady of Songs," was an influential Nigerian singer and actress, born on November 11, 1960, in Akwa Ibom State. Orphaned at an early age, she overcame a challenging childhood, finding her path and inspiration through music. She began her musical career in secondary school, singing in clubs, and her appearance on a televised talent show paved the way for a role on the popular TV show The New Masquerade, where she played the role of Apena. Essien-Igbokwe released her first album, Freedom, at age 17 in 1977, followed by her smash hit album, Ever Liked My Person?, in 1981, which featured her inspirational and rallying cry song, "Seun Rere." Her extensive repertoire included songs in her native Ibibio language, as well as English, Yoruba, Igbo, and Efik, giving her music broad appeal across cultural lines. A notable song in her native tongue, "Akwa Ibom Mmi," released in 1987, became an anthem for her home state, Akwa Ibom.
Beyond her remarkable musical and acting career, Essien-Igbokwe was a significant advocate for social issues, particularly those affecting women and children. She used her platform to highlight these concerns, notably appearing in the films Flesh and Blood and Scars of Womanhood. Her commitment to the Nigerian music industry was evident when she helped establish the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) in 1981, alongside King Sunny Adé and Sonny Okosun. Her involvement culminated in her becoming the organization's first female president in 1996, a position she held until 1999. She also supported the Performing and Mechanical Rights Society, frequently donating her royalties to programs for women, children, and the handicapped. Essien-Igbokwe was married to Edwin Igbokwe and was the chairwoman and managing director of Soul Train Entertainment. She passed away on June 30, 2011, in Lagos, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazing artist and humanitarian, having received numerous national and international awards, including the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 1999.