By Osa Amadi

A Nigerian music star, Peace Sunday was at her peak during a recent Lagos concert, where she captivated the audience with heavenly gospel performances that was deeply rooted in her Ibibio heritage and Nigeria’s diverse linguistic tapestry.

The 2023 Nigerian Idol Season 8 star showcased her prodigious talent at the 2026 African Praise thanksgiving event held on Friday, January 16, at Vita Music Studio.

The Akwa-Ibom State born vocal artist and choral musician, in her performance, proved to the audience once again, why she’s the next big name in Nigerian gospel.

Kicking off the show was the Ibibio solo “Ami Nyetoro Abasi’mi” (I’ll Praise My Maker While I Have Breath), a soothing Stamford tune that set a worshipful tone, explaining why she, and every Christian, adores the Lord.

While applause still echoing by her thrilling performance, she flowed into “Ibike,” a Kalabari praise originally by Dr. Oyibosiya Eberewariye and arranged by Derrick Esezobor. Next to that was an Ibibio/Efik hymnal “K’ini Ukpong Etide” (When My Soul Remembers), elevated by masterful accompaniment from George Michael Anieze (bass), Oluwaseyi Oluwagbenga (saxophone), Ogunshina Olanrewaju (drums), Nsikak Essien (keyboard), Dorcas Wuraola (soprano), Clara Umeh (alto), Emmanuel Okonji (flute), and Godspower Ene (tenor). The mood continued with Charles Mandor’s arrangement of “Yen No Mmen Nsik Oyem” (What Shall I Do for God).

Transitioning seamlessly, Peace embraced her cultural breadth with the Yoruba hit “Ise Oluwa,” arranged by Solomon Ezemuze. Meaning “The Work of the Lord Cannot Be Destroyed,” it sparked frenzy, praising God’s reliable miracles amid human fleeting.

Other songs done in English selections include J. Addison’s “When All Thy Mercies, O My God” (solo, music by F.A.G. Ouseley) and James Varrick Armaah’s “I Love the Lord,” including Nathaniel Bassey’s “O Dara” from The Glory of His Presence among others.

A MUSON School of Music alumna and protégé of maestro Sir Emeka Nwokedi, Peace closed with deep gratitude to her wonder audience and fans. She said: “My heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the show meaningful.”

To the choir, she thanked them for their commitment and artistry; to the audience for their warmth and to her parents and siblings for their love, prayers and support which she revealed that it is her foundation. “With the new year ahead, expect great things,” she said.