As I reflect on some of the pivotal moments in my journey as an artist, one that continues to stand out happened in September 2024, when two powerful films I was blessed to be part of had their world premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival.

This was a powerful moment not only for me but for the way Nigerian stories are being told and received around the world.

Freedom Way, directed by the brilliant Afolabi Olalekan and written/produced by Blessing Uzzi, went straight to my soul. Playing Abiola, a young father trying to hold onto his dreams and protect his family while facing police brutality and corruption in Lagos, took me to places I’d never been as an actor.

The preparation was heavy, the story was raw, and when we walked that red carpet and saw the audience truly connect during the premiere, it was overwhelming. The love in the room, the tears, the conversations that followed — it reminded me exactly why we do this. Seeing the film later win the Special Jury Prize at AFRIFF 2024 and Best Movie at the 2025 AMVCAs felt like beautiful confirmation of its power.

Then there was Legend of The Vagabond Queen of Lagos, the stunning debut from the Agbajowo Collective. This social thriller, woven with magical realism, pulls from the painful reality of forced evictions in our Lagos slums. As Jawu in the ensemble, I got to be part of a story that honors the strength and resilience of our people. The premiere was pure magic. The energy in the room, the urgency, the way it moved everyone; it’s a story that still lives in my heart.

Being part of both films at TIFF humbled me deeply. It showed me how far Nigerian cinema has come and how much more we still have to say. I’m forever grateful to the incredible teams, the cast, the directors, and everyone who believed in these projects. And most of all, I’m grateful to you, my people, for the love and support that keeps pushing me forward.

These stories matter. And I’m thankful for the opportunity, the growth, and the chance to speak through art.

Stay blessed, always. 🤍