Nollywood actress and producer Ruth Kadiri has stressed the need for entertainers to remain true to themselves, even amid the pressures of fame.
In a recent interview with Jay On Air, Kadiri explained that her focus is personal happiness and fulfillment rather than chasing external approval.
“The last thing I want is to lose myself in this business. I need to preserve my happiness and fulfillment while building my career, and I won’t let anyone sway me,” Kadiri said.
With a career spanning more than 20 years, Kadiri has become a versatile force in Nollywood, contributing as a writer and producer to several acclaimed projects. She revealed that her involvement in entertainment began during her time at the University of Lagos, working behind the scenes as a writer.
“Even in university, I was already exploring the industry. I started writing scripts and producing content, including projects shot in Ghana and other successful works,” she recalled.
Kadiri attributes her sustained success to trusting her instincts and maintaining a clear vision for her projects. She admitted that breaking into the business was challenging, particularly during a period when platforms like YouTube were just gaining traction.
“It wasn’t easy. I didn’t fully understand the business at first, and it didn’t seem appealing. But when I decided to pursue it, I knew how I wanted things to unfold. Most times, I just know when something will succeed,” she said.
She also acknowledged that her long-term goals are often misunderstood. Kadiri encourages fellow creatives to use modern tools and platforms to innovate rather than abandon their original visions.
“With platforms like YouTube, there’s so much potential. I expect entertainers to be experimenting, creating, and bringing their ideas to life. Many of the dreams we once wrote down in journals are being left behind, and that’s a missed opportunity,” she added.
Kadiri’s reflections highlight the challenges and rewards of staying authentic in a rapidly evolving industry, urging Nigerian entertainers to prioritize creativity and personal fulfillment over fleeting recognition.
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