Eniola Badmus, a prominent figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, has recently captured public attention not only for her illustrious career but also for her remarkable weight loss journey. This article delves into the details of her transformation, exploring her motivations, challenges, and the profound impact it has had on her life and career.
Celebrating 20 Years on Stage
As Nigerian actress Eniola Badmus commemorates two decades in the entertainment industry, she is set to celebrate this milestone with a book launch in Lagos on December 9th, inviting friends, fans, and colleagues to join in the festivities. In a reflective interview with City People Magazine, Eniola discussed her career and addressed the widely discussed topic of her weight loss.
The Decision for Change
Eniola revealed that her decision to embark on this weight loss journey was driven by a desire to surprise everyone and overcome the pressure and stigma she had faced. "Anytime I decide to do this celebration I want to surprise everyone. With the pressure and stigma I had gone through I want to change that. So I want to surprise everyone and help myself. It is not easy," she stated. She acknowledged that her eating habits had become uncontrollable, prompting her to take action. "It got to a point I could not control what I eat anymore. I eat anything so far it is edible, so from there I knew something fishy was going on."
The Numbers and the Habits
Eniola has successfully lost 33kg (approximately 73 pounds) so far, a testament to her dedication and hard work. She also mentioned breaking other habits, including one she considered particularly difficult to quit. "So far I have lost 33kg. I have other habits but I stopped even the one I thought I could not. I have one terrible habit that I am supposed to have stopped long time ago." This year has brought significant changes for her, some of which she didn't foresee. "This year a lot has changed about me, even I did not see this coming. As the year passed by I decided to change something."
Dealing with Negativity
Eniola has developed a resilient attitude towards negativity and body shaming. She chooses not to give attention to those who dislike her stature, stating, "On social what I think people don't like about me is my stature so they say different things that has made me strong. With this, there is really nothing that bothers me, I do me and what I want at every point in time." She understands that being in the public eye comes with scrutiny and differing opinions. "Whether we like it or not, I am in the limelight and different things will happen and these are the things we know comes with our line of work."
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Life Lessons and Humility
Eniola shared valuable life lessons she has learned throughout her journey. Firstly, she emphasized the importance of believing in oneself, stating, "Firstly, life has taught me that you can be anything if you put your mind to it." Secondly, she stressed the significance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their status. "Secondly, don't look down on people. I remember when I started, a whole lot of people looked down on me telling me that I am too fat and all. At some point, I was given only armed robber roles. So with this I have learnt not to look down on people and to be helpful." Lastly, she highlighted the importance of humility, regardless of one's success. "Lastly, life has taught me that even if you are the top, biggest, 'gbobo big girl', be humble because you can be there today and it will be someone else tomorrow."
Embracing a New Identity
Eniola prefers to be addressed simply as Eniola Badmus, without honorifics like "Aunty" or "Mrs." This reflects her down-to-earth personality and desire to connect with people on a personal level. "That is why I mingle with Davido, Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Olamide, CDQ and even the younger ones. I am not about being called "Aunty Eniola" just call me Eniola Badmus. Just like my elder brother who is over 60, he does not want to be called Chief, Mr and all of that. I like that, I am not Mrs, Miss just Eniola Badmus."
Acknowledging the Doubts
In a candid Instagram post, Eniola admitted to experiencing moments of doubt during her weight loss journey. "I’m still in doubt……….The journey of weight loss is one of immense courage, dedication, and resilience. It’s a path filled with struggles….physical, emotional, and mental that test the limits of one’s determination. Every step, from overcoming self-doubt to staying consistent in the face of challenges, reflects incredible strength. It’s not just about shedding weight but also about gaining confidence, discipline, and a renewed sense of self."
Body Image and Self-Acceptance
Eniola openly discussed her evolving relationship with her body, acknowledging that she sometimes misses her old physique. "There are days when I miss my old body, the fullness, the softness, the way I took up space without hesitation. I miss how familiar it felt, how I knew its curves like the back of my hand, how certain outfits hugged me just right. “But then, I look at my new body, and I see growth not just physically but emotionally. This body has carried me through change, challenges, moments of doubt, and discovery. It moves differently, it feels differently, but it is still mine. “Missing who I was doesn’t prevent me from appreciating who I am becoming." She emphasized the importance of self-acceptance and appreciating the journey of transformation.
Working with 'Deshapeables'
Eniola revealed that her weight loss journey began somewhat unexpectedly after she challenged weight loss companies to use her as a model. “I didn’t initially decide to go on a weight loss journey; it chose me. It all started when I put up a post a while back about weight loss companies using slim people to promote their products and services. I told them to use me if truly their products work. A lot of them picked up the challenge but I was able to settle with the ‘deshapeables’. I decided to work with them because I like their plan and I hope it would work."
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Brand and Transformation
Eniola clarified that her weight loss journey is a personal choice and may not necessarily impact her brand. “In fairness, I really can’t tell if losing weight would help my brand because with or without losing weight, I’m Eniola Badmus. If this works, people would just see the new body on me. However, it’s not going to be a total transformation because I still want to be a chubby girl; not slim. The goal is to be chubby but sexier. Maybe like losing three sizes. People should not think that I would be a shadow of who they know. I’m only doing this because I want to. No matter how much we shout about body positivity, one would still have to be on a diet. “I don’t want to be plus-size and unhealthy. I might not work-out like fitness enthusiasts but I try to keep fit. For clarity’s sake, I didn’t and don’t bend to societal pressure. I have very thick skin and like to do whatever suites me at any particular time. The idea is to see what I would look like afterward. There are some clothes I feel like wearing but can’t wear them till I lose weight."
Gratitude and Celebration
On her birthday, Eniola expressed gratitude for her health journey and the support she has received. She described her transformation from 170kg to 90kg as "nothing short of God’s excellence in my life." She also thanked her fans, family, and friends for their unwavering love and support. "Happy Birthday to me……Senator Badoskyyy. Today, I stand with a heart full of gratitude and joy. “I’m especially emotional today because I know what I’ve been through over the years, yet here I am, standing tall in the Lord’s greatness. “One of my greatest testimonies is my health journey. From weighing 170kg to now 90kg, I can say it’s been nothing short of God’s excellence in my life. “To my beautiful fans, family, and friends who have stood by me through it all. Thank you for your love and support. Today, I celebrate a new year in good health, a sound mind, greater opportunities, and abundant joy."
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