Omah Lay Opens Up: Smoking ‘Igbo’ Forced Me to Wear Glasses, Career Almost Affected

Nigerian music sensation Omah Lay has once again given fans a glimpse into the personal struggles that lie behind his rise to fame, revealing that his eye health has taken a hit due to years of smoking ‘igbo’. The singer, who has become a household name across Africa and beyond for his smooth vocals and hit tracks, admitted in a candid interview that he never imagined he would one day need glasses, a revelation that has left many fans both surprised and concerned.

“I never thought a time would come when I’d need to wear glasses,” Omah Lay confessed during a recent interaction with the media. The statement may seem simple at first glance, but it carries a weight that underscores the often-hidden toll of lifestyle choices on health—even for young, vibrant individuals in the prime of their careers.

The musician, whose real name is Stanley Omah Didia, has built a reputation not only for his musical prowess but also for his openness about personal experiences. Over the years, he has been transparent about his journey from an aspiring artist in Port Harcourt to one of Nigeria’s most sought-after performers, often sharing insights into the challenges behind the glitz and glamour. His revelation about his eyesight now adds another dimension to that narrative, highlighting the impact of substance use on physical health.

According to Omah Lay, his regular use of ‘igbo’, a popular term for cannabis in Nigeria, has contributed to the deterioration of his vision. While many fans associate the singer with energetic performances and charismatic stage presence, few imagined that something as seemingly common as smoking could have such a pronounced effect on his eyes. “I noticed my vision was getting worse over time, but I didn’t pay much attention initially. It was only when things started affecting my work that I realized I needed to take it seriously,” he said.

Experts in ophthalmology explain that while cannabis use is not typically the first suspect in eye health issues, prolonged and frequent consumption can have indirect effects. Smoking any substance introduces toxins into the body, which can contribute to oxidative stress—a condition that damages cells, including those in the eyes. Over time, this stress can exacerbate conditions such as dry eyes, blurred vision, and even increase susceptibility to more serious eye diseases.

For Omah Lay, the revelation is particularly poignant because his career depends heavily on his ability to perform, read lyrics, and engage with production teams. Musicians are often perceived as being invincible, thriving on late nights, high energy, and constant touring, but Omah Lay’s experience serves as a reminder that health issues can emerge quietly and unexpectedly.

“I just never thought this would happen to me,” he admitted. “It’s a little shocking because I’ve always felt healthy, but now I have to wear glasses and take care of my eyes properly.” His statement resonated widely on social media, with fans flooding comment sections with messages of support, concern, and curiosity about the effects of cannabis on health. Many expressed surprise that someone so young and seemingly carefree could face such a challenge.

The singer also reflected on the broader lesson from his experience, noting that lifestyle choices—especially those that seem harmless or recreational—can accumulate consequences over time. For fans who idolize him, Omah Lay’s honesty provides a rare and important insight into the realities behind celebrity life, often obscured by flashy appearances and viral performances. “I want people to understand that what you do today can affect you tomorrow. I’m not saying people shouldn’t enjoy themselves, but awareness is key,” he emphasized.

Interestingly, Omah Lay’s revelation has also sparked conversations within the Nigerian music industry about the pressures artists face and how these pressures sometimes lead to habits that impact health. Many artists travel frequently, work long hours in studios, and are constantly under public scrutiny—factors that can push some toward coping mechanisms like smoking. While such habits are often downplayed in interviews and social media posts, Omah Lay’s transparency sheds light on the hidden side of fame.

Fans on Twitter and Instagram have taken to the platforms to share their thoughts. Some have praised him for his courage in admitting a personal vulnerability publicly, while others have shared their own experiences with vision problems or cannabis use. The discussion has extended beyond music, sparking debates about mental and physical health, substance use, and the importance of regular medical check-ups—even for the young and seemingly healthy.

Omah Lay also discussed the adjustments he’s making to accommodate his new reality. He has adopted a more disciplined routine, including regular eye check-ups, limiting late-night activities that strain his eyes, and being more mindful of his consumption habits. For a performer whose life revolves around music and stage performance, such changes represent a significant shift. “It’s not just about wearing glasses,” he said. “It’s about being responsible for my health so I can continue doing what I love without compromising my future.”

This revelation arrives at a time when Omah Lay is enjoying significant success. With multiple hit singles and collaborations with prominent artists across Africa and beyond, he is regarded as one of the defining voices of his generation. Yet, as his career continues to ascend, his recent confession reminds both fans and fellow artists that no amount of fame or talent can shield one from the realities of health.

The conversation about Omah Lay’s eye health also intersects with broader societal discussions about cannabis use in Nigeria. With ongoing debates about legalization and medical use, his experience serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting that even in contexts where the substance is normalized, awareness of potential health implications is crucial. It also reinforces the importance of moderation, responsible use, and regular health monitoring.

In closing, Omah Lay’s openness about needing glasses due to smoking ‘igbo’ is more than just a personal anecdote—it is a story that resonates with anyone navigating the delicate balance between lifestyle, health, and career ambitions. His transparency invites fans to reflect on their own choices, while also humanizing a star who, despite international acclaim, faces challenges just like anyone else.

As the singer continues to captivate audiences with his music, this chapter in his life may mark a turning point—a reminder that true success is not only about chart-topping hits or sold-out shows, but also about maintaining the health and well-being that allow an artist to perform at their best. For Omah Lay, wearing glasses is no longer a trivial inconvenience; it is a symbol of awareness, responsibility, and resilience.

Whether this revelation will inspire other artists to speak more openly about personal struggles remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Omah Lay has used his platform to shine a light on an often-overlooked aspect of life in the limelight. Fans, meanwhile, are left with a renewed sense of connection to the musician—one that extends beyond music and into the very human experiences of health, growth, and adaptation.

Omah Lay’s journey continues, and with his music echoing across continents, his message is unmistakable: talent and fame are precious, but so is the health that allows one to enjoy and sustain them. As he puts on his glasses each day, it’s a quiet yet powerful reminder that even the brightest stars sometimes need a little vision correction.