Veteran Nollywood actress and filmmaker 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 altered her view of life, emphasizing that visiting the United States was very different from actually living there.
According to the actress, fame came early in Nigeria, but relocating to the U.S. taught her discipline, organization, and presence. She shared, “The country’s situation wasn’t the main reason. I had opportunities before, but waited for the right timing. COVID-19 changed my perspective; I realised life is short. Visiting the U.S. often wasn’t the same as living there. Moving was scary, but it was a necessary leap.
“Living abroad humbled me. Fame came early in Nigeria, and moving taught me discipline, organisation, and presence. Even small things, like driving or auditioning, reminded me that nothing is guaranteed.”
Omotola also addressed claims that she was banned in Nollywood for asking for higher pay. She stated, “That’s false. Who bans someone for asking for fair pay? The issue wasn’t greed; it was about professionalism. I was one of the highest-paid actors at the time, but a few of us were seen as ‘too powerful’ and outspoken. I insisted on fair treatment for crew members and wouldn’t work until they were properly fed. That made me a target, but I have no regrets.”
Reflecting on the challenges of Nollywood, she said, “The biggest challenge in Nollywood is the lack of structure. I’ve fought for standards since the beginning of my career, even being blacklisted at times for insisting on professionalism and proper documentation. That’s why I started Tefes, a platform focused on formalising the entertainment business and raising standards.
“In other countries, entertainers are recognised with salaries and pensions because they shape society. Nollywood projects Nigeria to the world through movies, culture, and music. What we lack is proper structure; functional guilds, less politics, and more professionalism.”