Nigerian special effects artist Onilogbo Hakeem, popularly known as Hakeem Effect, has shared an unusual account of how his career in visual effects began, attributing it to recurring dreams.
Speaking during a recent podcast appearance, Hakeem said the foundation of his craft was revealed to him through a series of vivid dreams that guided him into the profession.
He recounted an experience where an unknown figure approached him in a dream and invited him to follow. According to him, the individual’s identity remained unclear, but the encounter marked the beginning of his journey.
“I had a dream where someone held my shoulder and asked me to follow him… I couldn’t see the face because he was tall and white. That was how the journey started,” he said.
Hakeem explained that in the same dream, he was asked about his talents and responded that he could draw. He said the figure then assured him of global recognition if he remained committed.
He added that his involvement in a church choir and later a drama group exposed him to opportunities in stage production, where he was assigned to handle special effects despite having no prior knowledge of the field.
According to him, another dream later provided clarity on how to execute the role, offering practical guidance that he applied successfully in real life.
Hakeem also credited late Nollywood actor and producer Murphy Afolabi for giving him the nickname “Hakeem Effect,” which has since become widely recognised in the industry.
Today regarded as one of Nollywood’s leading special effects artists, his story adds a unique dimension to conversations about creativity, inspiration, and unconventional career paths within Nigeria’s film sector.
