Linda Ifeoma Ikeji, born on September 19, 1980, in Nkwerre, Imo State, Nigeria, is a renowned Nigerian blogger, entrepreneur, writer, and former model. Raised in a Catholic family as the second of seven children, Linda developed a passion for writing at a young age. She completed her secondary education at 17 and enrolled at the University of Lagos at 18, where she studied English Language. To support herself and her family during her studies, she worked part-time as a waitress, model, and writer. She graduated in 2004.
Career and Achievements
In 2006, Linda began blogging as a hobby. By 2007, she became an active blogger using the sub-domain ‘lindaikeji.blogspot.com’ and later acquired her own domain. Her blog quickly gained popularity, covering topics such as celebrity gossip, entertainment news, and lifestyle. She is often considered one of the pioneers of blogging in Nigeria.
Beyond blogging, Linda expanded her brand into various media ventures:
- Linda Ikeji TV (LiTV): A platform featuring a range of content, including talk shows, reality series, and movies.
- Linda Ikeji Radio: An online radio station operated from her media office, with some programs broadcast live on LiTV.
- LindaIkeji Music: Launched on November 21, 2016, as a music platform, though it became dormant three months after the launch.
- Linda Ikeji Social: A social networking site introduced to combine blogging with social media interactions.
In 2023, Linda ventured into film production with her debut movie, Dark October, which centers on the Aluu Four lynching incident. The film was released on Netflix on February 6, 2023.
Philanthropy
Linda runs a non-profit project titled “I’d Rather Be Self-Made; No Thanks,” aimed at supporting young women aged 16–25 with entrepreneurial aspirations. In the first phase of the project, she disbursed ₦10,000,000 to assist these young women in starting their businesses.
Personal Life
Linda gave birth to a son, Jayce Ikeji, in September 2018. The child’s father is Sholaye Jeremi, whom she met in December 2015. Linda has been open about her experiences as a single mother and has used her platform to discuss various aspects of her personal life.
Recognition and Awards
Linda has received several accolades for her contributions to media and entrepreneurship:
- Forbes Africa: In August 2012, she was profiled as one of Africa’s 20 Most Prominent Women.
- Honorary Doctorate: In August 2018, she was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Trinity International University in Georgia for her outstanding work in business and media in Africa.
- Nigerian Blog Awards: In 2013, she won Best Entertainment Blog.
- Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards: In 2013, she was awarded Website/Blog of the Year.
Net Worth
Linda Ikeji is considered one of the richest bloggers in Africa. Her net worth is estimated at $40 million, derived from her blogging activities, media ventures, real estate investments, and other business endeavors.
Controversies
Throughout her career, Linda has faced several controversies, including:
- Google Blog Shutdown: In October 2014, her blog was temporarily shut down by Google for violating terms related to content theft. It was restored two days later.
- Legal Disputes: She has been involved in legal disputes with various individuals and organizations over defamatory publications.
Despite these challenges, Linda Ikeji has remained a prominent figure in Nigerian media, known for her entrepreneurial spirit and influence in the digital space.