Jide Awobona Urges Aspiring Actors to Prioritize Passion Over Quick Riches in Nollywood

Nollywood actor and filmmaker Jide Awobona has advised aspiring actors to focus on passion and perseverance rather than expecting instant wealth from the Nigerian film industry.

Speaking to Sunday Scoop, the Jenifa’s Diary star emphasized that while acting can become financially rewarding over time, those entering the profession solely for money are likely to be disappointed. According to him, true success in Nollywood requires dedication, consistent effort, and a willingness to continually refine one’s craft.

“Acting and wealth don’t always run on the same timeline. No actor with genuine passion starts out thinking about money first. Occasionally, diligence and talent can bring financial rewards, but it’s the commitment to the craft that really counts,” Awobona explained.

He highlighted that Nollywood’s financial landscape has improved recently, largely due to digital streaming platforms, which have boosted investor confidence and expanded earning opportunities. “The industry has only just started showing strong financial promise. Streaming platforms acquiring our content has encouraged more investors to fund productions, which is great for the industry. But anyone looking to get rich overnight shouldn’t consider acting. You have to love what you do first, learn the craft, and put in the work,” he added.

Awobona also reflected on the personal sacrifices involved in building a career in entertainment. From cutting short family trips to rearranging flights for urgent shoots, he underscored the physical and emotional demands of the profession.

“I’ve had to make several sacrifices over the years. Sometimes that means leaving family vacations early or spending extra to change flights to reach a set on time. Recently, I had to rush back to Nigeria and head straight to Oyo to film Lisabi by Lateef Adedimeji,” he shared.

He also recounted a moment when his commitment to a production required him to fast despite having an ulcer. “I usually fast only during Ramadan, but on one shoot, I had to continue fasting with just water because the schedule demanded it. These are the challenges we endure quietly because the work must be completed,” Awobona said.