If there is a blueprint for turning 40 in grand, unapologetic style, Lola ‘Popstar’ Imade just handed it to us.
The health professional, beloved hostess, and queen of good vibes celebrated her milestone birthday in a manner that seamlessly blended deep faith, family warmth, and a house party that stretched hours beyond its scheduled end.
The day began on a reverent note at the House of Miracles Evangelical Church, where Senior Pastor Akin Obafemi led a heartfelt thanksgiving service.
Dressed in a tailored pink ensemble, Lola sat flanked by her husband, Uche, and their two children, soaking in the prayers and worship. Pastor Obafemi, clearly proud, singled her out not only as a devoted member but as a pillar of the church community. It was a moment of pure gratitude, setting the tone for the celebration to follow.
Once the “Amen” was said, the convoy moved to the Imade mansion, where the backyard had been transformed into a glamorous tented oasis. The décor was a masterclass in autumnal elegance: a sweeping balloon garland in burnt orange, mustard gold, cream, and Black arched over a regal white-and-gold throne chair, while a giant illuminated marquee letter “L” glowed nearby. String lights twinkled overhead, and tables groaned under the weight of a top-tier Nigerian feast — steaming jollof rice, fiery pepper soup, endless small chops, and perfectly grilled suya that kept guests returning for more.
Popstar herself was a vision in four distinct outfits throughout the event. She made her grand entrance in a floor-length chocolate-brown gown featuring a fitted satin skirt and a sheer lace bodice with a sweetheart neckline, cinched with a delicate gold chain belt.
Voluminous dark curls, a deep mauve lip, and gold accessories completed the goddess-like look as she posed beside her magnificent two-tier birthday cake — a confection adorned with matte spheres in terracotta and gold, a mini champagne bottle topper, and a glittering “40” topper.
Pastor Obafemi returned to offer a brief but powerful opening prayer for the party, and then the microphone was handed to the maestro of the moment: MC Victor Shoyelu.
Few can command a room the way Shoyelu does. Part comedian, part energy conductor, he spun a seamless mix of old-school highlife classics and the latest Afrobeats bangers, dragging uncles, aunties, and young partygoers alike onto the dancefloor. From orchestrated money sprays to a spontaneous Makossa showdown, Shoyelu ensured that not a single soul remained seated for long.
Guests danced while eating, balanced plates of jollof while moving to Burna Boy, and formed a joyous, chaotic, utterly Naija party train that snaked through the tent and onto the lawn. The planned 9 p.m. wrap time came and went; by 10 p.m., additional suya had appeared, and the gospel medley that broke out mid-party turned into an impromptu praise session.
Uche proved to be the anchor of the affair. Throughout the night, he moved quietly through the crowd with a permanent smile, ensuring glasses stayed filled and guests felt welcome. His public tribute to his wife was simple.
By the time Popstar emerged in her fourth outfit of the day — a chic lace jumpsuit-like that signalled she still had hours left in her — the celebration had cemented itself as one for the books. Speaking to guests, she summed up the joy with characteristic flair.
Indeed, Popstar took 40 with faith, fashion, and full-on fun.
