In his one decade that he joined the Nigerian movie industry, Saheed Babajide Awobona, has shown promises that qualified him as one of the industry future acts. A graduate of Mass Communications from Olabisi Onabanjo University Ago-Iwoye; in this interview with ORUKPE NELSON, he opened up on his passion for the make-believe world, love life and sundry issues…happy reading

You have become a constant face in many Nollywood movies. How does that make you feel?

I feel fulfilled. Not just because I have been in the game for a while, but also that I have done a couple of jobs that has earned me a lot of credit, recognition and appraisal.

Why and when did you delve into acting?

How I got into acting can be traced back to year 2003 when I missed a particular admission. So the next thing that struck my mind while waiting was to go for an acting training at Jovies Perfection Press. At this academy, we were not just trained in acting, but also art of public speaking and presentations. While there, we worked in conjunction with a particular non-governmental organisation, Global Association for War Against Aids, GAWAA, and part of my responsibilities then was going to some schools, to campaign and educate the children. We also produced some movies then to strengthen our campaign. It was through there that I got invited for an audition for Super Story, Wale Adenuga Productions. I later went and got a very important role in the series ‘Last Honour’.

And later switched to movies?

Yes.

Can you remember the number of movies you have featured in?

I have lost count as I have featured in lots of productions including English, Yoruba and TV soaps.

Which of them do you find more challenging?

To the contrary, I find every aspect of them very interesting.

Do you find any role challenging and cannot play?

I will definitely want to play all the roles, but I may just not be perfect in some. What makes one a total actor is the ability to be able to interpret any character.

When not acting, what engages you?

If I am not on locations, I would be in some advertising agencies pursuing modelling jobs. That is what I majored in while still in school studying Mass Communications.

You have also exhibited some other creative talents. How do you combine all these?

I believe it is an inborn thing; besides I am flexible, versatile, creative and industrious. I won’t forgive myself if I don’t give the required attention to these features.

Many actors are also trying their luck in music, are you likely to join the train?

I wouldn’t say yes or no, but I believe strongly in the saying ‘Never say never’.

Who are your role models in the industry?

The list is endless. They include Olu Jacobs, Antar Laniyan, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Ayo Adesanya, Yemi Solade, Pete Edochie and Ramsey Noah.

What is your perception of the Nigerian film industry?

The Nigerian film industry has really grown and it can be better. Though we have so many challenges, I believe soon we will get to our desired destination.

Do you have any regret so far?

I have no regret whatsoever. But I will like to give all the glory to God for the journey so far. I still have a long way to go and I believe God won’t forsake me.

What would you consider the greatest obstacles of the Nigerian film industry?

Piracy, I want the government to come to our aid and help in eradicating the challenges of piracy. It is really hindering our growth. We need to understand that there are some producers who ventured into films for the passion, so they give in their all to achieve the best in terms of content and production. We also have some who are just charlatans and all they are after is the financial benefit. These people put little effort to the development of the profession. But most importantly, piracy is killing the creative industry and something must be done to tackle it before it is too late.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

In the next five years, I see myself as a married man with my kids, and enjoying every moment of my life.