Teni Makanaki Reveals COVID-19 Health Battle and Weight Loss

Teniola Apata, widely recognized as Teni Makanaki, shared her experience battling COVID-19 during the pandemic on the Queen's Mic podcast on October 29, 2026. She described a severe health scare that left her struggling to breathe, prompting her mother to move in to assist with her recovery.

Teni credited her mother for taking charge of her diet, preparing nutritious meals, and helping her avoid harmful foods. This support was pivotal in her transformation, resulting in a 75-pound weight loss achieved through diet and discipline, not surgery.

Teni noted that this physical change significantly impacted her career, enhancing her performance as she became stronger and more agile. Additionally, she addressed public speculation regarding her weight loss, clarifying the natural methods behind her transformation.

Teni also made an appearance at designer Veekee James' wedding anniversary celebration, where she performed her new song.