Nigerian singer Niniola Apata has shared why she chose to remain an independent artist despite receiving numerous offers from record labels over the years.

In a recent interview with Hip TV, Niniola explained that her decision was rooted in the desire to retain full creative control—particularly over her distinct Afrohouse sound, a fusion of African rhythms, house music, and her personal artistic style.

Reflecting on her 2014 debut single Ibadi, she noted that Afrohouse was not widely accepted at the time. She feared that signing with a label could pressure her to compromise her originality and shift her musical direction.

Instead of signing a deal, Niniola teamed up with her former manager to launch her own music label—an arrangement that has allowed her to remain true to her artistic vision for over a decade.

She said, “I have been an independent artist for 10 years now, and it has its pros and cons. After I released my debut single in 2014, several record labels were calling me, but at the time, I was skeptical because I didn’t want anyone to take away my creative freedom,” she said.

“At the time, nobody was into my genre, Afrohouse, and you know how labels can say they investing in me and I have to do what they want, and I don’t want that happening to me.

“So, I wasn’t convinced enough to sign to a label. So my former manager, who has become my business partner, decided to set up a label, and that’s what we have been running together.

“Even all through the years, some deals have been coming, but I have not been comfortable with them.

“Afrohouse is a combination of African style and house music, so that makes it Nini, bringing my own flair into house music”.

“It feels good to be known as the queen of Afrohouse, and I have been able to carry on the genre because when I started, some people had concerns about the longevity and the language, because I sing in Yoruba.

She emphasised the importance of authenticity, faith, and gratitude in her sustained success.

“At the end of the day, I have seen that you just need to be yourself, pray, be thankful, and everything will fall into place”,she added.