Annie Macaulay Confirms Single Status in Playful AFRIMA Exchange

The glitz and glamour of the 9th African Music Awards (AFRIMA) at the Eko Hotel and Suites took an unexpected turn into the personal lives of its presenters this weekend. During a high-profile segment of the ceremony, former Big Brother Naija housemate Adekunle Olopade seized a moment of quiet anticipation to pose a question that has been lingering in the minds of many fans. Standing alongside the veteran actress Annie Macaulay, Adekunle asked for clarity on her romantic status, sparking a wave of reactions across social media and within the star-studded auditorium in Victoria Island.

The exchange occurred just as the duo prepared to announce the winner for the Best Male Artiste category. Adekunle, known for his calm and calculated demeanor, pivoted the conversation away from the script to ask the actress directly if she was currently single. The bold inquiry was met with a mixture of laughter and gasps from the audience, as the public has been closely following the evolution of Annie’s personal life over the last twelve months.

Annie’s response was both playful and definitive. Rather than shying away from the spotlight, she acknowledged Adekunle’s charm, describing him as a “fine young man.” However, the crux of the interaction came when Adekunle jokingly expressed concern for his physical safety. He alluded to the infamous history of dramatic stage interruptions in pop culture, noting that he didn’t want a situation where someone would “run and slap” him off the stage for his flirtatious inquiry.

With a smile and a sense of calm that suggested she was truly at peace with her current path, Annie assured him that he was “safe.” This brief affirmation served as a public confirmation of her independence, signaling that there is no longer a jealous protector waiting in the wings. The interaction was more than just stage banter; for many observers, it was the official closing of a chapter that had defined Nigerian entertainment news for over two decades.

The context behind this exchange is deeply rooted in the seismic shift that occurred in January of last year. It was then that the long-standing and often turbulent relationship between Annie and the legendary musician 2baba finally reached its conclusion. The split marked the end of an era for one of Africa’s most famous power couples. Since the separation, 2baba has moved on quite publicly, entering a high-profile relationship with Natasha Osawaru, a prominent lawmaker from Edo State.

While her former partner has embraced a new life in the political and social circles of Edo State, Annie has focused her energy inward. The mother of two has undergone a visible transformation, beginning with a symbolic rebrand of her digital presence. She famously wiped her Instagram history of past shadows and officially reintroduced herself to the world as Annie Macaulay. This return to her maiden name was not just a legal or social media update, but a declaration of self-reclamation.

Her journey over the past year has been documented through glimpses of quiet strength and newfound independence. She has frequently taken to social media to express her gratitude for the peace of mind she has found away from the constant scrutiny of a high-profile marriage. For Annie, the transition has been about rediscovering the woman behind the “Idibia” title, focusing on her career, her children, and her personal growth as an individual.

In her reflections shared with her followers, Annie has spoken candidly about the joy she finds in simple, solitary moments. She has emphasized the value of self-appreciation and the importance of building a life that is not dependent on the validation of a partner. However, she hasn’t closed her heart to the future. She has expressed an openness to a relationship that brings mutual growth and genuine support, far removed from the complexities of her past.

The AFRIMA moment with Adekunle served as a lighthearted validation of this new reality. By telling a “fine young man” that he was safe to inquire about her status, Annie signaled to the industry and her fans that she is no longer defined by her marital history. She is a woman standing on her own feet, navigating the dating world on her own terms, and doing so with the grace of someone who has survived the storm and come out stronger on the other side.

As the video of their exchange continues to circulate online, the consensus among fans is one of support. Many have praised her for her poise and her ability to handle a sensitive topic with such charm. Whether this leads to a new romance or simply remains a viral award-show highlight, one thing is certain: Annie Macaulay is firmly in the driver’s seat of her own life, enjoying her peace and the freedom to define her future.