Iyabo Ojo walks in with the confidence of a woman who owns her space. Years of battles some won, some lost have shaped her, but she always emerges stronger. Her presence is magnetic, commanding attention effortlessly.
Teni’s “Money” plays in the background as she settles into her seat, a warm smile on her face. Her home radiates comfort filled with family portraits, including those of her late mother, Mrs. Olubunmi Fetuga. She fusses over a fellow actor nearby, ensuring he gets a meal.
“I feel blessed,” she says. “It’s God’s doing, and I’m grateful.” After over two decades in Nollywood, her gratitude is evident. She began in 1998 with the English-language film Satan, stepping into an industry still finding its footing. Young and ambitious, she navigated challenges, taking responsibility for her journey.
Now, she is more than an actress she’s a filmmaker, businesswoman, and devoted mother. “Achievement isn’t just money,” she insists. “It’s about impacting lives, supporting people, and raising my children with love and discipline. That’s my greatest wealth.”
Her latest project, Labake Olododo, is her biggest yet. The cost of filmmaking is high, but she’s grateful for the support around her. “You can’t walk this earth alone,” she says.
A particular scene in the film has sparked curiosity she appears bare, and vulnerable. She laughs off the intrigue: “You have to watch it.” Labake, the character, is a powerful warrior, invoking thunder and fire. It’s a role that mirrors Ojo’s strength.
“I’ve had this story in my head for years,” she shares. “Labake is strong-willed, like me. I wanted to explore vulnerability, mistakes, revenge, and resilience all in one film.”
As the conversation ends, one thing is clear: Iyabo Ojo is more than a Nollywood star. She’s a storyteller, a warrior, and a woman who has carved her path in an industry that hasn’t always been kind. If Labake Olododo is anything like its creator, it’s set to be a game-changer.
