Ini Edo Reflects on 20 Years in Nollywood

• Ini Edo, a renowned Nollywood actress, expressed her humbleness at maintaining her relevance after 20 years.

• She expressed surprise at the continued reference to classic movies by Nigerians.

Veteran Nollywood actress Ini Edo has expressed deep gratitude for her continued relevance in the Nigerian movie industry after two decades.

In a recent interview with Saturday Beats, the award-winning actress shared that she often feels humbled and surprised when fans reference movies she acted in nearly 20 years ago. With over 300 film credits to her name, Ini said it brings her joy to know that many of her past characters remain unforgettable to audiences.

“It is very humbling and equally very troubling that many people are still referencing old Nollywood movies that I acted in. I have done over 300 films, yet everybody seems to just be stuck on a movie from like 20 years ago. Those stories are still very much embedded in people’s minds way beyond what we’re doing today. That’s not to say that what we are doing today isn’t good enough.

It’s just to say that for some reason, real movie lovers are unable to let go of the memories of those days. My challenge now is how to create things that can last for another 20 years in the minds of people,” she said.

She acknowledged that the enduring impact of older Nollywood films doesn’t mean today’s productions aren’t of good quality. Rather, she believes the nostalgia and emotional connection audiences have with classic films are hard to replace.

It’s just to say that for some reason, real movie lovers are unable to let go of the memories of those days. My challenge now is how to create things that can last for another 20 years in the minds of people,” she said.

Ini Edo also emphasized the importance of staying connected with her fans. She said she makes a conscious effort to show appreciation when people approach her in public.

“I think that in everything we do, we have to apply some level of discipline. When one chooses this life, one should know that one can’t eat one’s cake and have it. You can’t be successful in the public eye and still control how people react when they see you. Some fans never imagined they would meet one in real life.

So, when they do, sometimes the reactions are sweet, other times, not so pleasant. There are places you go and people act like they don’t even see you. So, when you come across people bold enough to appreciate you, I believe one should be receptive to that appreciation,” she added.

She concluded that mutual respect and appreciation are part of her duty as a public figure.