Nigeria’s gospel music community has been plunged into grief following the death of one of its most beloved voices, Onos Nancy Brisibi.
The gospel singer, whose voice defined a generation of Nollywood classics, passed away at the age of 55.
The Brisibi family announced the passing with deep sorrow, confirming that she transitioned to glory on March 23, 2026, after a protracted illness. The official family statement, released on Thursday, brought the devastating news to a wider public, and the reaction was immediate.
Born on November 20, 1970, in Aladja, Delta State, Brisibi began her music career at the remarkably young age of nine. Her vocal range drew early comparisons to international greats, including Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin, and she built a formidable reputation during her undergraduate years at Delta State University before going on to become one of Nollywood’s most sought-after soundtrack artists.
It was on the silver screen—or rather, in its sound—that Brisibi’s voice became embedded in the consciousness of a generation of Nigerian viewers. Her voice was instrumental in scoring several classic Nigerian films, among them Domitilla, Blood Money, Mortal Inheritance, Deadly Passion, and Shame—titles that defined the formative years of the Nollywood home video era.
Beyond film, she collaborated with Lagbaja on the hit track “No Do GraGra” and worked alongside several prominent Nigerian musicians across multiple genres.
Yet for all her contributions to secular entertainment, Brisibi’s truest calling remained within the walls of the church. A devoted Christian, she was a gifted songstress and a passionate praise and worship leader whose angelic voice touched many lives as she spread the gospel through music. She was a committed worship leader and a member of LoveWorld Ministries, also known as Christ Embassy, where she served for many years.
Those who knew her speak not only of her talent but also of the spirit in which she carried it. According to loved ones, she remained joyful and strong even in the face of her illness.
The tributes have poured in swiftly. Among the most poignant came from veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, who revealed a close personal bond with the late singer.
Taking to Instagram, the veteran actor described his late sister and cousin as “love in human form,” fondly recalling her vibrant personality, playful humor, and unwavering faith. He shared memories of their childhood, including how she would tease him with a near-British accent and how family gatherings were filled with laughter and warmth.
In a closing tribute that captured both his grief and his faith, RMD wrote that the tears were many, but the memories even more—and that he was comforted knowing she was finally resting with the Lord.
Veteran broadcaster Emma Ugolee also described the loss as devastating, noting he had only just been preparing a tribute to celebrate her contributions to the industry when the news of her passing arrived.
In their statement, the family offered a final portrait of the woman behind the voice. They described her as a beautiful, fun-loving woman with a heart of gold, whose faith, warmth, and kindness left lasting impressions on all who knew her.
Details regarding her funeral and burial arrangements are yet to be announced. She is survived by her daughter, Sarah Brisibi, her mother, siblings, extended family, friends, and her church family at LoveWorld Ministries.
Nigeria has lost another irreplaceable voice. But those who heard Onos Brisibi sing—in churches, in films, in the quiet moments where her music found them—know that some voices are never truly silenced.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Onos Nancy Brisibi, a trailblazing Nigerian gospel singer and Nollywood soundtrack artist, passed away on March 23, 2026, at the age of 55 after a battle with illness. Beyond her remarkable vocal talent — which graced classic films and church altars alike — she is remembered most for the kind of person she was: a woman of deep faith, warmth, and generosity of spirit. Her voice may have been her gift to the world, but her heart was her true legacy.
