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Celebrated Nollywood actor Odunlade Adekola, a household name in Yoruba and English-language films, has revealed the principles behind his enduring success and reflections on the industry. With over two decades of acting experience, Adekola, who began his career in 1996, has become a defining figure in Nigerian cinema.
Staying Active and Embracing Growth
In an interview, Adekola shared updates on his busy schedule, which includes filming in Lagos and Abeokuta and his role in the Glo Lafta Fest series. “I’ve been doing what I love—acting. I thank God for the grace to keep doing it,” he said. The actor hinted at upcoming projects that will showcase his versatility, urging fans to “watch out for Odunlade doing new things.”
He praised the advent of platforms like African Magic Yoruba for amplifying the global reach of Yoruba Nollywood, crediting social media for its significant role. However, he stressed the importance of adapting to changing trends. “Every industry must evolve with time. To solidify our ground, we need to move forward and protect our future by embracing global standards,” Adekola said.
Tackling Industry Challenges
On the issue of poor subtitling in Yoruba movies—a recurring criticism—Adekola admitted, “People still complain, and it’s even become a joke online. But I assure you, changes are happening. Many producers, including myself, now ensure professionals handle subtitling to maintain quality.”
He also shared how his role in Taxi Driver (Oko Ashawo) catapulted him to wider fame. “I didn’t anticipate its impact when we started, but I’ve learned that putting in your best always pays off. That’s my approach to every project.”
Versatility and Professionalism
Renowned for his ability to take on diverse roles, Adekola explained his approach to acting. “Being versatile isn’t magic; it’s the result of long-term hard work. When I get a script, I immerse myself in understanding the character, then inject my ideas to make it unique. Acting is my profession, and I protect it by being the best I can be.”
Faith and Scandals
The actor addressed rumors about using diabolic means to achieve success. “People often tie fame to jazz, even for pastors. Why wouldn’t they say the same about me? But I’m a Christian, born and raised in a Christian home. If you’ve reached a certain level and people aren’t talking about you, it means you haven’t climbed high enough. Social media can’t bring me down because my foundation is strong.”
Emphasizing Education
Adekola, currently studying Business Administration at the University of Lagos, advocates for education among aspiring actors. “I tell young people to finish their education or training before pursuing acting. Once you’re deep into this industry, going back becomes harder. Education sharpens your skills and provides stability.”
Patriotism and Supporting Local Talent
Despite traveling extensively, Adekola remains committed to promoting Nigeria. “There’s no place like Nigeria. If we could fix our electricity issues, many would choose to live here. Even smaller countries like Ivory Coast have uninterrupted power, which is key to economic growth.”
The actor also supports local artisans, revealing that his longtime tailor continues to make his clothes. “I believe in supporting our people. They deserve the spotlight just as much as anyone else.”
Looking Ahead
As he continues to inspire fans, Odunlade Adekola embodies hard work, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. His career journey proves that talent, grounded by faith and education, can lead to remarkable achievements in Nollywood.
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