- Seasoned Nollywood actress, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has revealed how living abroad has humbled her.
- In an interview with Punch, Omotola explained that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed her outlook on life.
Veteran Nollywood actress and movie producer, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde popularly known as Omo Sexy has revealed how living abroad has humbled her.
In an interview with Punch, Omotola explained that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed her outlook on life, stressing that visiting the United States is very different from actually living there.
According to the actress, she found fame early in Nigeria, but moving to the United States taught her discipline, organization and grace. She shared, “The situation in the country is not the main reason. I’ve had opportunities before but have been waiting for the right time. COVID-19 has changed my perspective; I realize life is short. Visiting the United States is often not the same as living there. Moving is scary, but it’s a necessary leap.
“Living abroad has humbled me. Nigeria made a name for itself early on, and moving taught me discipline, organization, and grace. Even the little things like driving or auditioning reminded me that nothing is guaranteed.”
Omotola also responded to claims that she was banned from Nollywood for demanding higher pay. She said, “That’s false. Who would ban someone who demands fair pay? The problem is not greed, it’s professionalism. I was one of the highest-paid actors at the time, but some of us were seen as ‘too powerful’ and outspoken. I insisted on treating cast members fairly and wouldn’t work unless they were fed properly. It made me a target, but I have no regrets.”
Reflecting on the challenges facing Nollywood, she said: “The biggest challenge in Nollywood is the lack of structure. From the beginning of my career, I have always fought for standards and even got blacklisted at times for insisting on professionalism and proper documentation. This is why I started Tefes, a platform focused on regulating the entertainment business and raising standards.
“In other countries, artistes are recognized with salaries and pensions because they shape society. Nollywood showcases Nigeria to the world through film, culture and music. What we lack are proper structures; functional guilds, less politics, more professionalism.”
