Nollywood celebrity actor and Brand Ambassador, Bolanle Ninalowo, was the celebrity guest at last Sunday’s reopening of Jacobs Salon and Spa in highbrow Lekki, Lagos. The hunky actor and film producer also known as Nino, was at the event with his family. He speaks with OLAYEMI WONDER and WOLE AJETUNMOBI on his acting career, his upcoming project, book and sundry issues. Excerpts below:
You were once quoted as saying that you had a dream of breaking into Holly wood. How far have you gone in realising this lofty dream?
I only said I can possibly break into Hollywood.
So, how far have you realised this dream of breaking in?
Well, it’s not a dream. I believe my hard work will get their attention with the grace of God. Every day, I work hard, and with all I have done, I believe and hope someday it will happen.
Why did you take the decision to be an actor?
Well I have always been an entertainment person. I have always had the flare for entertainment. I’m a kind of person that wants to do more and discover myself. Acting has always been my area of interest. So, I got myself into it and God answered my prayer.
What inspires you as an actor?
Do you mean to act script, the fans inspire me a lot; to see the expression on my fans’ faces. I like to see the reaction on their faces through the things I do. That inspires me a lot and that’s part of the reasons I do it.
How has it been since relocating back home to Nigeria?
I don’t even remember how it feels anymore because I have been here in Nigeria for about 10 years now, thank God for grace. I’m doing well, it wasn’t an easy journey.
Being a successful actor and a brand ambassador, what are your selling points?
Hard work and grace. Well, grace work for me a lot; I work exceptionally hard. Character as well; my daily rituals.
What are the challenges you face in the course of your career?
Nigeria itself is a challenge. I’m sure we all know that. I mean, we don’t have any structure. Everybody is just out here struggling for their own position. As I said, the grace of God works and it’s very apparent in my life. I just believe in God, you keep going, keep working at some point, ori adire (You’ll achieve success).
How would you advise young people aspiring to be successful actors and brand ambassadors like you?
Well, I like to tell youths, you need to understand why you want to do it. It’s beyond dream. You have to consider passion; you have to have a purpose. If you understand what your purpose is, that gets you far. Understand why you wanted it and put your heart into it.
How many movies have you featured in and which one is your best?
Over 300 to 400 movies. I think my best so far, quote and unquote, by the fans is, ‘Picture Perfect’. Awon ti Makanaki!
Are you working on any project presently?
Yes, people should look out for Picture Perfect series: Raising Jobestina. It’s coming out soon. All my fans are looking forward to that, and I also have a book coming out soon called Shame to Fame’
Can you give us an insight into the content of the book?
The older I grow, the more peaceful and grateful I become. So, I have been able to sum up things faced on the journey of becoming who I am today realising time I have wasted and I begin to feel the peace that flows from my decision to rise above some situations and distractions that don’t really matter.
What’s your idea of fashion?
For fashion, I love originality. I give my designer all the glory. They make me look good. It’s always been a collaboration between me and designers; shout out to all fashion designers out there that make me look good.
How do you feel being the celebrity guest at this event?
Being the celebrity guest here, I’m highly honoured. I’m here with my family to have a good time. You know, we’ve been on lockdown for a long time now; the kids have not been able to see the streets. So, coming here is a blessing and I’m thankful for it.
How do you see the environment?
To be honest, ‘t’awon Yankee leleyi, awon olowo nikan le se ibi bayi fun, not Jobestina’ (laughs). This is amazing, it’s a beautiful place. I saw the kids’ salon too and it’s mind-blowing. I pray I do something like this someday. Shout out to Jacobs Unisex Salon & Spa. This is amazing.
We hope you stop by at the Salon often.
Absolutely, I’ll be coming here more often.