At the tender age of seven, Tobi Makinde, a Nigerian actor from Ilesa, Osun State, began his journey into the world of acting, guided by his father, who shared the same passion. His early roles, notably as Nathaniel in “Kamson and Neighbors” and “Timini” in the acclaimed series “Jenifa’s Diary” produced by Funke Akindele, propelled him into the limelight. Since then, Makinde’s career has soared, culminating in his co-direction of the blockbuster Nollywood film “Battle on Buka Street” and his standout performance as Shina in “A Tribe Called Judah,” the highest–grossing Nollywood blockbuster under Akindele’s direction. In an exclusive interview with mediaandmarketing.net, Tobi shares insights into his journey, triumphs, challenges, paternal influence, relationships, and professionalism… Excerpts

Can you share your journey into acting and what initially inspired you to pursue this career?

My journey into acting was unplanned. I started at a very early age, around seven, influenced by my father, who is also an actor. He recognized my talent early on and introduced me to sets. The first time I appeared before a camera was in a film called “Silenced.” It was produced by Ralph Nwadike and directed by Tunji Bamishigbin. There were a lot of veterans in the movie. It had Femi Brainard, Tony Umez, Funso Adeolu, Bob Manuel Udokwu. I was quite star-struck. From then on, I was endeared towards acting, I wanted to do more of that. Despite facing rejection at auditions, I remained determined, believing in my abilities and understanding that each rejection was not a reflection of my talent but rather a mismatch of expectations. Projects like “Kamson and Neighbors” and “Jenifa’s Diary” provided breakthroughs amid the challenges. When it came to when I was supposed to pick a course in the university, it was easy to choose Theatre Arts.

What challenges have you encountered in your acting career, and how have you overcome them?

Life is full of challenges, and my acting career has been no exception. Rejection was a significant hurdle, especially in the early days. Traveling long distances for auditions only to face disappointment was tough. I had to set out very early in the morning to go to Badagry, Ikorodu, Victoria Island; anywhere. However, I persevered, believing in my abilities and understanding that each rejection was not a reflection of my talent but rather a mismatch of expectations. Having to juggle my academics with going for jobs wasn’t easy too, but I had to find the balance.

You have had some notable achievements like your roles in “Kamson and Neighbors” and “Jenifa’s Diary.” Can you elaborate on the impact these projects have had on your career?

“Kamson and Neighbors” and “Jennifer’s Diary” are integral to my journey as an actor. I had Kamson and Neighbors where I acted as Nathaniel when I was a kid and after years of toiling and searching, I met Ms Funke Akindele, who then brought me into Jenifa’s Dairy and that felt like some sort of re-introduction into the industry as people have not seen me for years. They catapulted me into the limelight and reignited my passion for acting after a period of uncertainty. These projects not only showcased my talent but also introduced me to a wider audience, laying the foundation for future opportunities. For me, these two projects are some sort of blessings. Some people still call me Nathaniel or Timini.

How would you describe your relationship with people so far in the industry?

I would say I have an amazing relationship with people in the industry so far. I am very good with people and from experience I would say I am a very likeable person and not out of a boastful place. I have cultivated strong relationships within the industry, emphasizing collaboration and camaraderie. As a firm believer in the collaborative nature of filmmaking, I prioritize fostering connections and working harmoniously with my peers.

How has your education influenced your approach to acting and filmmaking?

My education in Theatre Arts at the University of Lagos; both first and second degrees has been instrumental in shaping my approach to acting and filmmaking. It provided me with the necessary discipline and training to hone my craft. Studying theatre exposed me to various acting styles and techniques, emphasizing the importance of both talent and training in the industry.

Can you discuss your personal brand as an actor and how you differentiate yourself in the industry?

As an actor, I prioritize authenticity and creativity. My personal brand revolves around showcasing my talent and providing a platform for young artists to shine. I differentiate myself by focusing on substance over superficiality and advocating for genuine storytelling.

What values or principles do you prioritize in your career, especially regarding leadership and professionalism?

I prioritize values of purpose, resilience, and consistency in my career. Leadership, for me, involves serving others and leading by example. Professionalism is non-negotiable, emphasizing the importance of integrity, discipline, and continuous growth.

How do you perceive the current state of the acting industry in Nigeria, and what opportunities or challenges do you see?

The acting industry in Nigeria continues to evolve, with opportunities abound for aspiring actors. It keeps getting better. There are opportunities for up-and-coming actors and we are getting the recognition we deserve in other climes. However, challenges persist, particularly in distinguishing acting as a career from celebrity culture. There is a difference between a celebrity and an actor. You are first an actor before anything else. This is where discipline comes in. It is essential to prioritize substance over superficiality and advocate for a return to the essence of the craft.

Can you share your aspirations in the areas of producing and directing and how they complement your acting career?

Producing and directing are integral aspects of my career aspirations. Acting is quite seasonal. You act and become the rave of the moment for a particular time. But as time goes on, new acts come up. For me, to maintain my consistency, I will complement my directing and producing prowess. They provide avenues for creative expression and allow me to maintain relevance beyond acting roles. By producing my content, I can showcase my talent while nurturing aspiring filmmakers and actors.

Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring actors, particularly those facing challenges similar to what you’ve experienced?

To aspiring actors, I would emphasize the importance of consistency, resilience, and patience. Believe in your abilities, stay true to your craft, and trust in the journey. Success may not come overnight, but perseverance pays off in the end.