Nigerians have been thrown into mourning following the death of Monalisa Ayobami Stephen, a well-known brand influencer, actress, and advocate for body positivity. Her death was confirmed on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, by the Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON), Seun Oloketuyi, in a somber Instagram post.
According to Oloketuyi, Monalisa passed away on Tuesday, May 13, in Lagos, after succumbing to complications linked to low blood sugar and internal bleeding. Her immediate younger sister reportedly confirmed the tragic news to Oloketuyi, who described Monalisa as a hardworking and beautiful soul who gave everything to her craft and causes.
The late influencer was widely known for her bold voice in the entertainment industry and her fearless advocacy for body confidence, mental health, and self-love. Her death has stunned fans and colleagues alike, many of whom took to social media to share tributes and express disbelief.
Monalisa’s public battles with health and depression had been topics she addressed openly in past interviews. She once disclosed her struggles with body shaming, emotional trauma, and health-related challenges, becoming a beacon of strength for many young Nigerian women who looked up to her.
Industry players have described her death as a profound loss, not just to Nollywood, but to a generation of content creators who saw her as a symbol of resilience. “She didn’t just influence brands — she influenced lives,” one colleague wrote in tribute. “Her story gave people hope.”
Fans are now calling for more awareness and early intervention around health issues like hypoglycemia, with some also urging public figures to pay attention to internal health regardless of external appearances. Tributes have poured in from celebrities, advocacy groups, and fans across Nigeria and beyond.
As the entertainment industry mourns, her family has requested privacy while plans are being made for her funeral. She is survived by her siblings and a growing legacy that continues to speak long after her passing.
