Rachel Tabuno Oniga was one of the seasoned actresses who had traveled a considerable path in the Nollywoodfilm sector. One distinctive aspect about her is that although she is Yoruba, she converses in the language with ease, which provided her an advantage in securing roles in Yoruba and English films. She often portrayed the character of a mother in numerous films she participated in.
Her absence will be deeply felt in the film sector; this piece centers around all there is to learn about the gifted actress.
Profile Overview
Full Name: Rachel Tabuno Oniga
Date of Birth: 23 May 1957
Place of Birth: Lagos
Age: 64 (deceased on July 30, 2021)
Nationality: Nigerian
State of Origin: Delta
Other Names: Tabuno
Citizenship: Nigerian
Profession: film actress
Years Active: 1993-2021
Marital Status: Divorced
Rachel Oniga’s Life Story
The seasoned actress was born on May 23rd, 1957, in Lagos state. Her parents hail from Eku, situated in the Ethiope East local government area of Delta State.
Education
Rachel completed her primary education in Abule-Ojaa, a locality in Lagos state. However, owing to her tendency to engage in fights as a tomboy, her father withdrew her from a secondary school in Lagos and sent her to pursue her studies in Edo state. The actress shared that the transition to a new place was a harrowing experience for her as she was distanced from her childhood friends and playmates, mainly boys.
Nevertheless, after completing her secondary schooling, she returned to Lagos and pursued a degree in Computer programming.
Professional Journey
After her graduation, she briefly worked with Asoline Nigeria Limited, a Dutch consulting firm.
She, however, embarked on her acting journey in 1993 after separating from her spouse who went on to wed another woman. Due to her dedication and effort, Rachel Oniga remained remarkably steadfast in the film sector.
Her initial significant role was in a soap opera titled ‘Memorial Hospital’, where she portrayed a patient. She rose to prominence in the Yoruba film ’Boorepo’.
Apart from acting, Rachel was a film producer and did exceptionally well for herself throughout her career.
Some of the films she featured in include: “Sango,” “Died Wretched,” “The Only Nigerian Girl,” “Doctor Bello,” “True or False,” “The Royal Hotel Hibiscus,” “Chief Daddy” and several others.
Family and Personal Life
Rachel Oniga was a grandmother and a mother of three. Her daughter Georgia gave birth on September 5th, 2014.
After her separation from her husband, she took it upon herself to care for and raise her children. She enjoyed dressing both comfortably and elegantly.
Awards
Here are some of the accolades she received: Best Supporting Actress at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, Best Indigenous Actress (Yoruba) at the Best of Nollywood Awards, Most Promising Actress in Nigeria at the City People Entertainment Awards.
Passing
Rachel Oniga passed away at the age of 64 on the 30th of July 2021. Some reports indicated she succumbed to complications related to COVID-19.
