Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninalowo, popularly known as Makanaki, has shared insights into his career journey, stressing the importance of branding and positioning in the entertainment industry.
In an interview with The Nation, Ninalowo explained that while grace plays a role, success in the industry is no accident. He says prosperity comes from intentionality and hard work. In the actor’s words:
“Yes, first is grace, and then two is positioning. My brand is very important to me. I’m not just an actor, I’m a business actor.”
The Picture Perfect star emphasised that actors need to build a unique identity that resonates with audiences beyond their roles on screen.
According to him, the ability to stand out and have a brand name recognised by the public is just as important as acting talent. He stated:
“Maybe you can tell me how many actors in the last decade the industry has been able to brand in a way that people call them by a name outside of their acting name.
So, when you say Maka, see how everybody reacts? That is the brand. For me, brand is key, not just jumping from set to set. How many more films do I have to act in for you to know who I am?.”
Ninalowo, who has starred in numerous hit films, believes positioning oneself strategically in the industry opens doors and sustains a career in ways mere visibility cannot. His advice to fellow actors: focus on building a brand that speaks for you long after the cameras stop rolling.
Award-winning rapper and music producer, Jude Lemfani Abaga aka MI has opened up about why he waited until the age of 41 to get married.
In a recent interview with Jay On Air, the 43-year-old revealed that while he had been in previous relationships, he simply wasn’t emotionally ready for marriage.
MI admitted that in his late 30s, he sometimes felt a twinge of regret when comparing himself to friends who had tied the knot much earlier and already had teenage or grown-up children.
But any lingering regrets disappeared when he met his wife, Eniola Mafe, whom he described as a “divine blessing.”
