Monalisa Stephen, Nigerian Actress and Body Positivity Advocate, Passes Away at 38

Nigerian actress and media personality Monalisa Ayobami Stephen, also known as Gabacci, has passed away at the age of 38. According to Best of Nollywood's CEO, Seun Oloketuyi, Monalisa Stephen died in Lagos on Tuesday, May 13, after battling low blood sugar and internal bleeding. Her immediate younger sister has since confirmed the news. Monalisa Stephen was known for her outspoken stance on body image, mental health, and self-love, using her platform to spark important conversations around these topics.

Key Takeaways:

Monalisa Stephen was a plus-sized actress, media personality, and body positivity advocate who lost her life at 38.
She died in Lagos on Tuesday, May 13, after battling low blood sugar and internal bleeding.
The news of her death was confirmed by Seun Oloketuyi, CEO of Best of Nollywood (BON), and her immediate younger sister.
Monalisa Stephen was widely admired for her boldness in promoting body positivity and mental health awareness.
She had used her platform to spark important conversations around body image, mental health, and self-love.
Her final post on Instagram was made on April 29, 2025, where she shared a video of herself dancing to Davido's '10 Kilo' from his 5ive album.
Monalisa Stephen was known for her confidence and self-love, often inspiring others with her positive messages.

Statistics:

Age at the time of death: 38 years old
Date of death: Tuesday, May 13
Location of death: Lagos
Cause of death: low blood sugar and internal bleeding
Number of years Monalisa Stephen used her platform to promote body positivity: unknown
Number of people Monalisa Stephen inspired with her body positivity messages: unknown

Sources:

Oloketuyi, S. (May 14). Statement on the death of Monalisa Ayobami Stephen. [Shared on Best of Nollywood's social media channels]
@MonalisaStephen (April 29, 2025). Video of herself dancing to Davido's '10 Kilo' on Instagram