Veteran Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, has called for a shift towards selfless leadership in Nigeria, emphasizing that the country will not achieve meaningful progress until it finds leaders willing to make significant sacrifices for the nation.
In a recent interview on Rubbin’ Minds, a talk show on Channels Television, the 48-year-old actress stressed that Nigeria’s struggles are rooted in the failures of leadership rather than the actions of its citizens. Omotola, who has enjoyed a career spanning over three decades, argued that the country needs leaders who prioritize national interests over personal safety and material gains.
“Until we find leaders in Nigeria who are ready to die for this country, we haven’t started,” Omotola said, stressing that real change begins with leaders who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good.
Clarifying her stance, she added that her call was not an endorsement of violence but a demand for leaders with courage, conviction, and integrity. “It’s a mindset. You can’t be afraid, and you can’t be materialistic,” she explained.
The actress rejected the idea that Nigerians themselves are to blame for the country’s challenges, pointing to the need for strong leadership, law enforcement, and accountability from the top. “It’s unfortunate that we’re still where we are now because we’re a very fortunate, very blessed nation,” Omotola said. “What keeps any nation sane or in order is laws and enforcement, and it starts from the top.”
In the lead-up to the 2027 general elections, Omotola also warned against the destructive influence of tribal politics, urging Nigerians to focus on the bigger issues facing the country. “I pray that tribalism will not be on the table in this election,” she said. “It’s sad that people are still doing this when there are bigger issues.”
The award-winning actress recounted her personal experience during the last election, alleging voter suppression at her polling unit, fueled by ethnic bias. “Yes, there was [voter suppression], and I have proof,” Omotola revealed. She argued that such attempts to intimidate voters only deepen divisions and provoke anger. “You cannot suppress a human being. You’ll only make people angry and push them towards revolt,” she said, advocating instead for dialogue and collaboration.
Omotola, who has strong cultural ties across Nigeria, described herself as a true Nigerian with deep connections to all regions of the country. “I schooled in the North, my husband is half Igbo, I’ve worked extensively in the East, and I’m Yoruba by birth. I love every part of this country,” she shared.
She also praised the entrepreneurial spirit in cities like Aba and expressed confidence that Nigeria has the potential to become a global economic powerhouse if united and focused. “Nigeria is a beautiful country. We’re better than Dubai if we’re serious, and we’re better than China,” she added.
Omotola’s passionate call for change and national unity underscores her belief in Nigeria’s untapped potential and the importance of effective, selfless leadership in shaping the country’s future.
