Popular actress and TV host Nancy Isime has opened up about a difficult period in her early life, sharing how singer Yemi Alade once gave her a safe place to stay when she had nowhere to sleep.
In an emotional social media post, Nancy reflected on her beginnings at just 17 years old, when she hustled as a model and usher. Living with her family in Ikorodu, far from where most of her jobs were located, she often found herself walking home alone in the dead of night — sometimes as late as 2 or 3 a.m.
She recounted nights spent sleeping on chairs and rugs, with her father constantly worried and her brothers trying their best to meet her halfway to ensure her safety.
Looking back at that phase between ages 17 and 19, Nancy admitted it was a challenging time marked by constant uncertainty about where she would sleep each night.
“Yes, my family was worried, especially my dad,” she wrote. “But I’m a dangerous gyal and it’s best to let me figure out life my way… else the rebellion is quite rebellious. I must confess I’m a full-blooded Esan woman — our stubbornness is from above.”
Amid all the late nights and long treks, Nancy shared that she once reached out to Yemi Alade — whom she’d met through a friend — asking if she could crash at her off-campus accommodation. Without hesitation, Yemi opened her doors.
“I stayed for weeks and this woman NEVER EVER complained,” Nancy recalled fondly. “In fact, the peace was too much, I had to leave even when I wasn’t ready to.”
Eventually, Nancy secured her own apartment in the same building after she gained admission into university. Her bond with Yemi Alade only grew stronger from there.
Grateful for Yemi’s kindness and generosity, Nancy wrote:
“Many years later, I still have the softest spot for Yemi and will eternally be grateful to her. Allowing me to squat with her wasn’t what stood out — I squatted with other people too — it was the attitude, consideration, and the peace!”
She ended her heartfelt note with a warm shoutout to her friend:
“My Padi @yemialade, I dey for you for life!”
