Actor, Chidi Dike, tells NAOMI CHIMA about his career, childhood and other issues
How did acting start for you?
It was shortly after the COVID-19 lockdown, and it actually started like a joke. A lady wanted to make a film and was looking for fine people to feature in it; so, my friend linked me with her. She eventually featured my sister and I in the movie.
The movie was not that great though. But immediately after that, I felt like it was what I was meant to do.
Even though I was still in school then, I was looking out for more acting gigs. And, that was how the next one came. However, it did not all happen at once. It actually took some time.
How would you describe your early days in the industry?
Joining the movie industry was quite challenging. In the beginning, I did not get many acting roles, because I did not know many people in the industry, but I believed I was talented. However, things changed when I met actress, Ruth Kadiri.
I think the industry will be a better place if producers and directors take more time to discover new talents, because there are a lot out there.
The old faces in the industry are already established. They should intentionally bring up younger ones, and build the next generation of artists. The industry will grow even bigger if they can invest in younger people.
What are the challenges you have faced in the course of your acting and modelling careers?
Most times, it is not starting the career that is the problem; it is more about showing up every day. A lot of people started but stopped along the way. The ability to show up every day is my number one struggle. But, every day, I encourage myself and show up, even when I am tired.
What do you love the most about being popular?
Being famous is a whole lot. One’s life is practically out there for everybody to see. However, ever since I was a teenager, I had always wanted to be famous. One thing I enjoy about fame is the access it gives one.
Also, I enjoy relating with my fans, because they are amazing people. I know what they want from me, and I usually give it to them. I try to communicate with them as much as possible. I have a fan page, where I engage with them as much as possible.
How has your humble background influenced your lifestyle and personality?
My parents are pastors, so from a young age, they instilled humility in me, and that has influenced my life till today. I don’t think there is any amount of fame or money that can lead me astray. Sometimes, when I want to do certain things, I sit back and think of what my parents will do.
How do you like to dress?
I love to appear the way I want to be addressed. I love to dress smart. However, I don’t like doing too much with my dressing. But, I like wearing statement pieces; though not too extravagant.
I love fashion. It is wonderful when one understands who one is, and what suits one. I usually say that one wears the clothes, and not the other way round. It all depends on one. One can wear cheap clothing, and still have a lot of value. Someone that is wearing more expensive clothing can still even admire one, because it is not about the clothes, but about the person.
Which actors will you like to work with?
I will like to work with Funke Akindele, Jim Iyke, Ramsey Nouah, and Chidi Mokeme.
I really want to be friends with Chidi Mokeme; and probably act as his son.
How do you unwind?
If I am not filming and I have a two or three-day break, I like to sleep and get enough rest.
Once I am well rested, I will go to the gym. I really unwind when I am working out, lifting weights. When I return from the gym, I will sleep again.
I also like going to the cinema, because I enjoy watching movies. That also helps me to unwind. And, I love cooking too. Cooking helps to ease my mind. While cooking, I can forget about every worry, and just focus on the food and make it taste good. Making food helps me to unwind.
I like going for outdoor meetings and meeting up with friends as well. I also unwind by taking quick trips.
What are some of your most memorable moments?
One memorable moment I will never forget was the day I met Ruth Kadiri. And, the day she gave me a call and sent me a script.
What advice do you have for young people as regards following their dreams?
I believe that everybody has a picture at the back of their head of what they want to achieve, who they want to be and where they want to go.
All I have to say to young people is that they should not forget the big picture. Talk about it as often as possible. Find a partner; somebody you’re comfortable with, and keep talking about it. Those are the things I have done.
It does not matter where you are at the moment. A year ago, I was not where I am right now; but trust me, I talked about most of the things I am doing now.
Right now, I have a bigger picture, and that is what I am talking about now.
Nothing has been heard about you and any woman being romantically involved. Why is that?
That is because I have none. I am not romantically involved with any woman at this point.
How do you cope with the admiration of female fans?
I am coping just fine. They (female fans) are amazing people, and I appreciate them for their admiration.
What is your take on how young people, especially the Gen Z, use social media?
Social media is amazing, but it can also be a double edged sword. It consists of the good and the bad. I think that here in Nigeria, young people are maximising the use of social media. Take a look at YouTube; there are a lot of young people making serious money from it. People are also actively using other platforms such as TikTok to make money for themselves.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In the next five years, I want to have become a household name in Nigeria and beyond; and I believe I’m on way to achieving that.
By that time, I must have established a couple of businesses, because I am also entrepreneurial. I want to establish at least two companies.
