When media personality Toke Makinwa stepped into the spotlight once again on Sunday, Lagos stood still. This was not for a show or a podcast, but for something far more personal. The occasion was the child dedication of her daughter, Yaya, an event that drew out some of the biggest names in Nigerian entertainment and set social media alight with clips, comments, and congratulations.
This wasn’t just another celebrity event; it was a story of faith, new beginnings, and the dazzling intersection of family and fame.
From Private Joy to Public Celebration
For months, Toke had managed to keep her motherhood journey remarkably private, which is a feat in today’s influencer age. Rumours about her baby first surfaced earlier this year, but it wasn’t until August that she publicly confirmed the arrival of her daughter, whom she affectionately calls Yaya.
Friends close to the TV host described the event as “deeply emotional” and “a full-circle moment” for the On Becoming author, who has openly discussed her struggles with love, loss, and longing for family in the past.
So when the day came for Yaya’s dedication, it was more than a ceremony. It was Toke’s soft reintroduction to joy.
The Ceremony: A Touch of Grace
The dedication took place at The Logic Church, where family, close friends, and members of Lagos’s elite gathered. Inside, the atmosphere was intimate yet sophisticated white florals, soft lighting, and the warm hum of live worship music.
Toke, radiant in a custom all-white ensemble, stood before the congregation as her baby was prayed for by the church’s lead pastors. Those in attendance described the moment as emotional, with Toke visibly holding back tears of gratitude.
Her closest friends, including fellow celebrities, influencers, and media executives, were spotted sharing smiles and dance moves as they gathered at the church altar.
Guests, Reception & Fashion: The Night Took Off After Church
After the solemn dedication service at The Logic Church, the celebration moved to Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, where Toke hosted a lavish reception. The venue was elegantly transformed, draped in soft lights, lush florals, and white accents that reflected her signature glamour.
The guest list was a roll call of Nigerian entertainment royalty. Spotted at the event were Toyin Abraham, Ruth Kadiri, Tiwa Savage, Olamide Oworu, Mercy Aigbe, Nancy Isime, Waje and her daughter Emerald, Funke Akindele, Eniola Badmus, Papaya Ex, Broda Shaggi, Mama Deola, and Taymesan among others.
Videos captured the guests mingling, dancing, laughing, spraying cash and celebrating the milestone moment with genuine warmth. One of the day’s most viral highlights came when Mercy Eke pulled out ₦1 million in cash and handed it to Toyin Abraham at the event. This gesture sent the crowd into loud cheers from netizens in the comments section with Toyin expressing disbelief and appreciation.
Waje and her daughter Emerald were also seen sharing an affectionate mother-daughter moment at the reception, while Tiwa Savage and Papaya Ex turned heads in their vibrant ensembles as they joined the star-studded crowd.
The Fashion Statement: From White to Pink
Toke’s fashion evolution that evening was a headline of its own. For the church ceremony, she wore a pristine white outfit complete with a fascinator, symbolizing purity and grace.
But when it was time to celebrate, she switched things up. She dazzled guests in a pink, crystal-fringed gown that shimmered with every movement. The playful yet regal outfit captured in clips posted online, perfectly balanced her elegance with her bold sense of style.
Faith, Fame, and the Power of Rebirth
Beyond the glam and the guests, Toke’s baby dedication carried a quiet message about faith, perseverance, and personal renewal.
In past interviews, she has been candid about her divorce, the challenges of public scrutiny, and her journey to healing. Now, with her daughter Yaya, she steps into a new chapter grounded in peace and purpose.