Please tell us about your educational background
I went to the Government Secondary School in Ilorin, Kwara State. Then I proceeded to attend Kwara State Polytechnic in Ilorin. Finally, I graduated from Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic. I am a graduate of Mass Communication.
How did you become an actor and a filmmaker?
I started out working with a state troupe as a theatre practitioner for 11 years. During this period, I attended several National Art Festivals in Nigeria and Kiddafest in Ghana, which ignited my passion for the creative industry. In 2008, I resigned from my appointment as a civil servant in Kwara State and came on screen. I started with stage plays in 2009 and now, I run my entertainment company, Benkash Entertainment.
What were the things that you used to do before that you could no longer do because of fame?
I would say nothing. The reason is that I have always believed that given my public conduct, the creative industry should be an avenue of moral education. We hold up a mirror to society so that put it in me that I must be of good example to the society.
What are the challenges you have encountered in the creative industry?
I have had lots of challenges but I will mention a few. There is a lack of support both financially and materially to execute good movies. Creating quality content is a great challenge because there is no government support or support from private companies for filmmakers in Nigeria.
Which movie character would you say made you popular?
I will say the most prominent movie character I played was in the series, Jenifa’s Dairy (created by Funke Akindele). I played the character Mr Bassey. My movie that I produced Kosara Omo Omi also made me popular.
How do you handle your female fans?
I have no issues with my female fans. We are friends and I am cool with them. I have no unnecessary attachments. They are simply my fans.
Do you have a recent or current project you are working on?
Yes, it is a just concluded MNet series from Zuri 24 Media. I played Egbon Subomi’s character. It is an MNet production but available on Showmax.
What pieces of advice would you give to up-and-coming actors and filmmakers?
Filmmaking is a big terrain, so I will advise them to come with good intentions. It is also vital for them to lead a morally upright life and stay focused. Only God gives fame, and it comes with both hard work and prayers, but no man gives fame. They should also tread softly, and with persistence, they will also get to the peak.
