Speaking in a recent interview, the reality television star explained that the name feels disconnected from her childhood experiences. According to her, the meaning of the name did not reflect the reality of her early life, which she said was marked by emotional struggles and a lack of the “blessings” the name suggests.
Phyna said she often found herself seeking love and acceptance from different people while growing up, including family members, friends, and romantic partners. However, she noted that many of those attempts were met with rejection or harsh criticism, leaving her feeling hurt and unsupported.
Describing her early years as chaotic, the BBNaija winner said she missed out on several opportunities and forms of care that many children typically receive from their parents and relatives.
Despite the hardships, she maintained a strong belief that her circumstances would eventually change. Phyna recalled repeatedly telling members of her extended family that she would one day achieve fame and financial success, even during moments when she felt mistreated.
According to her, that confidence kept her going through the most difficult periods of her life.
“The name given to me by my parents is Blessing. My reason for hating that name was that I don’t see a sense of blessing in my life. It felt like I was always begging for love — family love, friendship, even in relationships. Even, in fact, dem don use am curse me,” she said.
She added that her teenage years were particularly challenging, as she lacked some of the support and opportunities that were available to many of her peers.
“All aspects of growing up for me were very crazy. As a teenager, there are things you could get from parents and family, but I didn’t have that. I knew for one that I was going to be big. Growing up, I would always tell my aunts, even when they beat or maltreated me, that they would watch me on television and that I would have money,” she added.