Could you recall the circumstances surrounding your return to Nigeria from Liberia?
We used to live in Liberia, but had to come back to Nigeria during the Liberian civil war. You can imagine both parents living in Liberia with all their investments there. We came to Nigeria empty-handed, having lost everything to the war. The only thing we had with us when we landed in Nigeria was the Red Cross blanket. We had to start all over again. But it didn’t last for so long. My dad eventually got a job.
My elder brother, who was into stage performances, told me that since I love actors and actresses, he would take me to where I could meet them. So, he took me to Winnies Hotel in Surulere, Lagos. I was so happy that I was seeing every one of them on a platter of gold. Normally, when one has not met them, one just assumes they are ghosts, angels or people you don’t get to see on a normal day. Then, one day, a production manager was passing by and asked me if I was an actress and I said no. He told me he was looking for a girl like me who could act and I told him I wouldn’t mind being an actress. So, that was how I got my first job in 1999 in the movie titled Cassanova. I continued with the English movies until I met my husband. He was more into the Yoruba movies and soap operas. I got more jobs in the Yoruba movies.
When did you meet him?
He was more of a God-sent helper. The first time I met him, I was stranded right in front of his guest house and couldn’t get transportation out of the area. He was like, “Hey! Where are you going?” And I told him I wanted to get out of that area. So, he was like, “Okay, no problem; let me help you.” Lo and behold, he dropped me right in front of my house and we became friends.
Then, we became lovers; and today, we are husband and wife. He came into my life at the right time. He came almost immediately after I lost my dad, so I see him as a father figure. Initially, I used to tell him that I loved him as much as I loved my father. But as time goes on, I found out that I love him more than I used to love my father. He is a wonderful man. He gives out a helping hand and tells me what to do when I am confused. He is very concerned about me, my career and every step I take in life. He is part of every minute of my life and there is nothing going on in my life that he doesn’t know. He’s just a part of my life.
At what point did you discover you could act?
The truth is that I got into acting by accident. Though I always loved watching people act, I never knew I would one day act until the opportunity came. Since then, it has been a wonderful experience.
We know you’re a professional now. But what was it like at the outset?
I used to be scared of the camera, but I have out- grown that now. As you rightly said, I’m a professional now. I thank God for my fans who have been there for me all these years. Now, I can say I’m a star, but the fans are the real stars because they are the ones who make us want to put more effort into what we are doing.
How many movies have you featured in so far?
I have lost count. It’s over a decade, as you know. I had featured in over 20 English movies before crossing to the Yoruba movie genre. So far, I’ve featured in over 100 movies and TV soaps.
What do you consider before taking up a script?
I consider the depth of the story, the director and the cast.
People say you are amiable and modest…
If I’m to describe myself, I think those will be my first choice of words. I’m amiable and modest. It’s my upbringing, really. This is who I am. Sometimes when people meet me and try to chat me up and they see that I welcome it, they are surprised. I am who I am by the grace of God and favour that God has given me in the hands of my fans. So, they deserve my attention.
How would you describe the Nigerian film industry today?
The Nigerian movie industry has grown. But I like to say Nollywood is still emerging. We are yet to have a structure and that remains the major challenge facing the industry. However, the rate at which we have emerged in recent past is commendable; so, I believe with time we will get there.
What does style mean to you?
Let me say, first and foremost, that I do not follow the trend. Style, to me, means being modest and wearing what suits me, irrespective of whether it is a designer or not. I mustn’t wear a designer, if it doesn’t suit me or my body type. Having said that, I love to look good all the time by wearing what suits me.
What stands you out as an actress and producer?
I’m a stickler for perfection. I’m passionate about my works and the film industry. I go the extra-mile to achieve perfection in my interpretation of roles. I am very detailed in my productions.
What do you like about pink colour?
Pink is my favourite colour. I love pink because it is feminine.
How do you unwind?
I love going to the beach and swimming in a pool. I also go out with my husband and friends when occasion demands it.
Culled from TheNation
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