Nollywood actress, producer, entrepreneur and royal icon, Hrh Tayo sobola sarauniya (queen mother) uke Nasarawa) popularly known as Sotayo Gaga, is set to be honoured at the 2026 Coolwealth Awards as the Influential Nollywood Personality of the Year, in a grand ceremony scheduled for January 11 2026 at the Azalea hall Ikoyi Lagos. She will be celebrated alongside an exceptional lineup of royalty, cultural icons, entertainment legends and captains of industry, including His Imperial Majesty Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, the Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Jide Kosoko, Akpororo, Nike Art Gallery and other distinguished personalities whose impact continues to shape society.

The honour recognizes Sotayo Sobola’s far-reaching influence in the Nigerian film industry and beyond, where she has carved a unique identity defined by versatility, consistency and purposeful growth. Over the years, she has evolved from a multifaceted creative—exploring modeling, music, television presentation and video appearances—into one of Nollywood’s most respected actresses, seamlessly transitioning from English films into the Yoruba movie industry, where her presence has remained both commanding and relevant.

Born on December 28, and raised in Lagos, Sotayo’s upbringing was shaped by discipline, values and cultural balance, which continue to reflect in her professional and personal life. She pursued higher education with focus and clarity, earning a Diploma in Law from Lagos State University before obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State. Her formal introduction to the Actors Guild of Nigeria while still a student marked the beginning of a journey that would later position her as a defining voice in contemporary Nollywood.

With an impressive catalogue of film appearances and productions, Sotayo Sobola has featured in and produced several notable movies, including Corper Jide, Arewa Onijigbon, Aami, Bella, Egan, Fighting Choice, Moremi and Ojuloge Obinrin, among others. Her performances are often praised for their emotional depth, cultural authenticity and strong female representation, reinforcing her influence not just as an actress, but as a storyteller shaping narratives within the industry.

Beyond the screen, Sotayo’s impact extends into entrepreneurship and brand development. She is the founder of Sotee Entertainment, a media company established in 2015 with a strong footprint in film and content production. Her business portfolio further expanded with the launch of Clean Stitches, a bespoke and ready-to-wear fashion brand, as well as Pop It, a lipstick brand. In December 2025, she unveiled her luxury fashion label, TM – Thonia Michael, cementing her status as a creative force across multiple industries.

Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades over the years, including multiple City People Movie Awards, the Royal Exquisite Award for Best Actress of the Year, and the Global Peace Actress of the Year award. She has also been appointed an ambassador of the ECOWAS Youth Council in recognition of her commitment to youth development, education and human empowerment across West Africa.

Sotayo Sobola’s influence transcends entertainment into traditional leadership and humanitarian service. As the Sarauniya (Queen Mother) of Uke Kingdom in Nasarawa State, she carries a title conferred in recognition of her passion for women empowerment, social development and community upliftment. Through the Sobola Tayo Anthonia Foundation, she continues to support the less privileged, champion girl-child empowerment and drive positive community impact.

As the Coolwealth Awards 2026 approaches, Sotayo Sobola’s selection as Influential Nollywood Personality of the Year stands as a celebration of excellence, evolution and enduring relevance. It is a recognition not only of her artistic achievements, but of a woman whose influence spans culture, commerce, compassion and crown—making her a worthy honouree on a night dedicated to greatness.