Veteran Nollywood actress and filmmaker Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, popularly known as Omo Sexy, has opened up about how relocating abroad transformed her outlook on life and humbled her in unexpected ways.
In an interview with Punch, the movie star revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic changed her perspective about life and influenced her decision to move to the United States. She noted that frequent visits to the U.S. were nothing like actually relocating and starting afresh.
“The country’s situation wasn’t the main reason. I had opportunities before, but waited for the right timing. COVID-19 changed my perspective; I realised life is short. Visiting the U.S. often wasn’t the same as living there. Moving was scary, but it was a necessary leap,” she said.
Omotola explained that fame came early for her in Nigeria, and living abroad forced her to slow down, learn discipline, adapt to structure, and embrace new experiences without entitlement.
“Living abroad humbled me. Fame came early in Nigeria, and moving taught me discipline, organisation, and presence. Even small things, like driving or auditioning, reminded me that nothing is guaranteed,” she added.
Addressing rumours that she was allegedly banned in Nollywood for demanding high fees, the actress dismissed the claims as false.
“That’s false. Who bans someone for asking for fair pay? The issue wasn’t greed; it was about professionalism. I was one of the highest-paid actors at the time, but a few of us were seen as ‘too powerful’ and outspoken. I insisted on fair treatment for crew members and wouldn’t work until they were properly fed. That made me a target, but I have no regrets,” she stated.
Reflecting on the differences between working abroad and in Nigeria, Omotola highlighted the lack of structure in Nollywood as its biggest challenge.
“The biggest challenge in Nollywood is the lack of structure. I’ve fought for standards since the beginning of my career, even being blacklisted at times for insisting on professionalism and proper documentation. That’s why I started Tefes, a platform focused on formalising the entertainment business and raising standards.
“In other countries, entertainers are recognised with salaries and pensions because they shape society. Nollywood projects Nigeria to the world through movies, culture, and music. What we lack is proper structure; functional guilds, less politics, and more professionalism,” she said.
