Veteran Nollywood actress Ini Edo has opened up about the enduring impact of her early career and the complex emotions that come with her lasting popularity in Nigeria’s film industry. In an interview with Saturday Beats, the actress shared her reflections on how fans continue to connect deeply with her early 2000s roles—despite her expansive body of work spanning more than two decades and over 300 films.

 

“It is very humbling and equally very troubling that many people are still referencing old Nollywood movies that I acted in,” she said. “I have done over 300 films, yet everybody seems to just be stuck on a movie from like 20 years ago. Those stories are still very much embedded in people’s minds way beyond what we’re doing today. That’s not to say that what we are doing today isn’t good enough.”

 

Ini Edo acknowledged the dramatic transformation the Nigerian film industry has undergone in terms of storytelling, cinematography, and global reach, but noted that many viewers still hold a special place for the emotional and nostalgic resonance of earlier Nollywood classics.

 

“It’s just to say that for some reason, real movie lovers are unable to let go of the memories of those days,” she added. “My challenge now is how to create things that can last for another 20 years in the minds of people.”

 

Beyond her work on screen, the actress also addressed the challenges of fame, emphasizing the need for discipline and self-awareness in navigating life in the public eye.

 

“I think that in everything we do, we have to apply some level of discipline. When one chooses this life, one should know that one can’t eat one’s cake and have it. You can’t be successful in the public eye and still control how people react when they see you.”

 

She spoke candidly about her encounters with fans, noting that reactions often range from overwhelming admiration to surprising indifference.

 

“There are places you go and people act like they don’t even see you,” she said. “So, when you come across people bold enough to appreciate you, I believe one should be receptive to that appreciation.”

 

As she continues to evolve in her career, Ini Edo remains focused on building a legacy that can match the emotional weight of her earliest films, while navigating the realities of stardom with grace and authenticity.