Overview

Nollywood makes finding love harder –Imade Osawaru
   Imade Osawaru is a Nigerian actress, film producer, entrepreneur, influencer, chef, and television personality has continued to distinguish herself with her versatility within the African entertainment industry.
Born in Benin City, Edo State, in the late 1980s, Imade hails from Ugha Okhuoihe in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Edo State.

In this interview with Sunday Sun, Imade, who currently serves as the Secretary of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Lagos State Chapter, speaks about her new role, her vision for the guild, relationship matters, and more.

Congratulations on your new position. How does it feel to be elected Secretary of the AGN Lagos?
Thank you. It’s truly an honour. I feel a mix of excitement and responsibility. Being elected secretary isn’t just about holding a title; it’s about representing my colleagues in the industry and making sure their voices are heard. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and make a real impact.

Why did you decide to step into leadership now? What was the motivation?

I’ve always loved working behind the scenes to support fellow actors. I realised that if I wanted to help improve systems, advocate for actors’ rights, and drive meaningful change, stepping into leadership was the next logical step. It felt like the right time to contribute in a bigger, more structured way.

What are the first three things you want to tackle in your first 100 days in office?

First, improving communication between leadership and members so that everyone feels included. Second, reviewing and streamlining policies to make them more actor-friendly. Third, creating opportunities for capacity-building workshops, training, and mentorship for actors at all stages of their careers.

What will make your tenure successful in your own words?
If I can create a stronger sense of community, increase transparency, and make the guild genuinely useful for every actor in Lagos, I’ll consider my tenure a success. It’s about real, tangible change.

What do you think is the biggest problem facing actors in Lagos right now?

Access to fair contracts and proper advocacy remains a major challenge. Many actors are talented but don’t always receive the protection, guidance, or support they deserve. That’s something the guild must address more effectively.

How do you plan to improve communication between AGN leadership and everyday members?

By creating clear and consistent channels, providing regular updates, hosting open forums, and maintaining accessible platforms. So that members can ask questions, give feedback, and stay informed. Transparency and accessibility are very important to me.

What policies or reforms should actors expect under this new administration?
Actors should expect stronger advocacy for fair contracts, more professional development programmes, and initiatives that support mental health and overall well-being. Mentorship and structured networking will also be a key focus.

How do you plan to handle industry politics without losing focus?

By staying grounded in my values, fairness, honesty, and accountability. Politics will always exist, but my decisions will always be guided by what’s best for actors, not personal interests.

What message do you have for actors who feel the guild doesn’t work for them?

I understand their frustration, and I want them to know that this administration is listening. Allow us to rebuild trust and make the guild a space that truly works for everyone.

Looking back, what role truly introduced you to Nollywood?
The Gateman was a major turning point for me. It gave me visibility and allowed audiences and industry professionals to see my range, which opened many doors afterwards.

What’s one thing you had to unlearn to become a better actress?

I had to unlearn the belief that showing vulnerability on set was a weakness. Once I embraced it, my performances became more honest and impactful.

Has fame changed the way producers and directors treat you?

In some ways, yes. Fame brings more attention and higher expectations, but I remain focused on my craft and let my work speak for itself.

What type of role are you tired of being offered, and what roles do you desire?
I’ve been offered many repetitive, overly seductive roles; either I’m the “boyfriend snatcher” or involved with a married man. I want to move away from that. I’m now more interested in complex characters with depth, emotional range, and strong moral journeys.

What’s the hardest sacrifice your career has demanded of you so far?

Time, especially time with family and loved ones. The industry demands long hours and commitment, and balancing that with personal life hasn’t always been easy.

Which actor or filmmaker has challenged you the most professionally?

I’ve been most challenged by directors who are very detailed and honest in their feedback. They pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and the experiences have been incredibly rewarding and transformative.

What’s one rumour people believe about you that is completely false?
That I’m unapproachable or difficult to work with, but in reality, I’m very collaborative and open. I enjoy building positive and creative relationships on set.

Let’s be honest: Does being in Nollywood make love harder or easier?

It definitely makes it more challenging. The long hours, travel, and public attention can affect relationships, but with understanding and trust, it’s still very possible.

Are you currently single, dating, or keeping it private?

I’m single at the moment, but you never know who might catch my attention. Life and love have a way of surprising you.

Would you date or marry someone in the entertainment industry?
I’m open to it. What matters most to me is shared values, respect, and understanding. Being in the industry already helps with that.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Passionate, Resilient, Grounded.
https://thesun.ng/nollywood-makes-finding-love-harder-imade-osawaru/