As 2025 draws to a close, Nigeria’s biggest stars are reflecting on the year that was spent analyzing the mistakes and disappointments that molded them, acknowledging the minor triumphs that sustained them, and outlining audacious goals for 2026. These celebrities talked about the lessons they learnt, the challenges they experienced, and the hopes they have for a better future while residing in the creative hotspots of Lagos and Abuja as well as the busy streets of Warri.
Patra Dear, Steph (the Calabar Chic), Lydia Usang, Joan Johnson, Etinosa, and others share their personal confessions about how they want to welcome the Christmas season in this unique feature.
According to Saturday Vanguard, they’re using the holiday season as a springboard for their lofty objectives for the upcoming year, whether it’s through family get-togethers, charitable giveaways, introspection, or community outreach.
Come along as we explore their tales of tenacity, optimism, and joy and see how the stars are illuminating the season with appreciation and purpose.
In 2025, Etinosa Idemudia overcomes fear: “I’m content with my body at last.”
What is my greatest regret? For too long, I’ve been afraid to improve my body. I am so happy that I finally had the operation. In 2026, I wish to see a better Nigeria where perseverance is rewarded. I’ll be spending this holiday season with my loved ones, spreading joy through charitable giving and large-scale giveaways. In addition, I’m making use of the time to think and plan for a more successful year.
Lydia Usang: “In 2025, I used my setbacks to my advantage.”
Although 2025 has been difficult and slow, it has actually been a boon. When producers stopped contacting me for gigs, I realized that my career had drastically changed, and I regret choosing to make my own film in my own modest way. It wasn’t until I inquired around that I realized why. It was hurtful when somebody said, “Everyone thinks you’re big because you’re not a producer.” I wasn’t competing with anyone; I was just trying to create. People shouldn’t have stopped giving me job because I was investing what little I had in my own development, but that new stage burdened me. I prayed, I cried, and I continue to pray. I am aware that this is only a phase and that the future will be more promising and fruitful.
Since all of today’s major producers began where I am, I will overcome my concerns and rely on God for help.
I won’t claim that everything is perfect right now, but things may change quickly. I recently filmed a movie called “REJAMI (A Broken Promise),” which will be released in December. My December celebrations are limited because I squandered my savings, but I am thankful for the affection I received from friends and family. May God bless each and every one of them.
God willing, it will be much better and more productive in 2026. I’ll land more acting, production, and endorsement contracts.
Joan Johnson: “In 2025, I learned gentle lessons.”
If I could look back on 2025, my “regrets” would be lessons learned rather than errors.
Not slowing down enough: I occasionally overlook the deeper emotions that individuals are expressing because I want to help as soon as possible.
Doing more than listening: There are times when just being there is more important than providing answers.
Undervaluing compassion as a tool: While facts and reasoning are strong, compassion and warmth subtly transform lives.
My goal for 2026 is to be more emotionally intelligent than merely knowledgeable. I wish to encourage more people, particularly in times of uncertainty, grief, or change, and to contribute to the development of courage, clarity, and serenity in a world full of noise.
Sapphire Adaobi: “I’m going to Morocco for AFCON with no regrets, just celebrations.”
I have no regrets. 2025 was fantastic and full with events that changed people’s lives. Along with spending some time at the AFCON, my family and I are traveling to Morocco for Christmas. I plan to push myself further, accomplish more, and advance both my pageant and film careers in 2026.
“I wish I had started business earlier, plan empowering moves for 2026,” said Calabar Chic.
For me, 2025 has been a year of introspection, development, and enlightenment. The only thing I regret? failing to embrace business outside of the creative realm sooner. I now realize that having talent isn’t enough; systems, structure, and a variety of revenue sources are equally important. You learn exactly what you’re prepared to learn in each season.
I became really clear-headed this year. I started to think more deliberately about my life, career, and future. I reevaluated my objectives and started establishing a foundation in the fields of agriculture, art, real estate, media and production, and now technology.
My goals for 2026 are ambitious and well-thought out. I want to grow my companies, start new projects, share more meaningful tales, and develop platforms that give people more power.
For me, Christmas has always been about connecting with others, giving, and sharing. Giving to friends, strangers on the street, or families that simply need a little assistance to make the season easier brings me the most delight. That’s what makes Christmas truly magical. I want to celebrate the holiday in my hometown with kids, the elderly, and the underprivileged in our neighborhood in a calm and meaningful way.
“I quit a six-month corporate gig to pursue my acting career,” said Patra Bright.
My 2025 regret was attempting to put a stop to my acting career in order to accept a job offer from a company that was quite attractive at the time. My plan was to work for roughly six months before going back to acting, but that didn’t work out. Since I wasn’t on screen throughout my January–February visit, I felt invisible. I had to return home, and by March I had resumed filming. After only two months, I decided to leave the position. After serving as a TV station’s general manager, I’ve been concentrating only on my acting profession.
My goal is to produce high-caliber films by 2026. I’ve already been in a Netflix movie, and I hope that this leads to more partnerships both in Africa and abroad. With God’s help, I aim to be working abroad in 2026, and it’s a great platform to display my talent. I’ve learned a lot and been much strengthened this year. Above all, I’ve developed my strength.
About the Author
