Halima Abubakar is an actress and a movie producer who has conquered her world. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about her humble beginnings, memorable moments, empowering young people through her foundation, surviving an illness that almost claimed her life and more.
What is life as an actress like?
I would say that life as an actress is normal for me. It is already a way of life. For me, it is nothing different from other jobs. We are in the limelight and, yes, it is quite interesting and fun some times. Of course, there are times when it can be stressful and demanding.
Tell us about your first role; what was the experience like?
That is quite a long time. Honestly, I can’t remember my first movie. I didn’t say a word in the movie. Things have really changed and now I am here doing so many things, giving people jobs as well as working for others too.
Did anyone try to discourage you at that point in your career?
Yes, my dad did. He was never in support of my acting career and fame. That was then; now, he is my biggest fan. A huge fan now and I love my daddy. Going down memory lane, I also remember that some of my so-called friends tried to discourage me and make me leave the acting profession at the beginning. But my mind was made up and for the truth was that I wasn’t stopping anyone, we don’t act alike because I was different. At that point, I was synonymous with my unpredictable expressions and some used that to lobby to go get my job. That was the phase then and I survived it all .God has been really great.
What are some of the memorable movies that you have participated in?
I have tonnes of movies that are really memorable. I love Jujuwood by Tchidi Chikere. I also really like all my jobs because there is an element of divine touch in what I do. Just take a look from just a few scenes to a whole lead and more. That, interestingly, is see life and what God can do if you are determined and hardworking. Apart from acting, I have produced nine movies and there are still so much that I want to do.
Tell us about the challenges that you are faced with in the process of doing the things that you do
Like every other career or business, the challenges are always there. For me, I strongly believe that hard work pays and it is just a matter of time. In addition, you need a lot of patience and prayers. The truth of the matter is that I don’t play with prayers at all; I need it. On the job, people get jealous if you’re doing your work very well, hence they usually want to sabotage what you are doing. And because I am not a dummy, I know my onions and they know that I can give them a hard time. I strongly believe that the industry is for all and no one can stop me from shining.
Looking down memory lane, what are some of the interesting things your fans have done to you?
I love my fans for their support; my fans appreciate me and all that I do. I must say a big thank you to my fans here, because I know that they care and I am loved. Thank you all. It is not easy getting support from people. Sometimes, you find people sending letters and flowers to media houses for me. They just want me to know that they care for me. God bless you all. I love you all.
What are the things that make you happy?
Happiness is a thing of the mind and I would say that the things that make me happy are just random. In addition, I am an undercover comedian and a lot of people enjoy hearing me talk; I love comedy.
Who are the people that you admire in the sector?
I have a number of people that I admire in the sector because they stand out from the pack. They include Mr and Mrs Olu Jacobs, Sola Shobowale, Bimbo Akintola, Uncle Zack Orji and Barbara Soky. I admire their natural talents and raw acting skills. So, I watch and learn; God bless my legends. I am humbled that some of them are now in my movies, masha Allah.
Tell us about some of your awards and recognitions
It’s been a very interesting and exciting journey in the sector for me. I have won four best actress
awards, both here and abroad. In addition, I have over 90 awards in my kitty and the recognitions range from new actor, supporting actor to best actress. Looking back, it hasn’t been a small journey. I am really honoured for all the opportunities that have come my way. Also, don’t forget that I am also a farmer and a business woman. As an entrepreneur, I run a luxury items outfit and in my collection you will find eye popp
ing glasses, boxes, super quality accessories and perfumes. I don’t do clothes.
Is there anything that you want the government to do for the sector?
I do have a farm that I am very passionate about. The soil is being friendly because of the sun but the rain is not helping. I don’t want my sweat to drop in vain. We also make money from livestock and fish farming and we are doing very well. I need the government to support the sector and it will make things better. I am happy because I am doing what others are not doing. Even though many think it is a man’s job, that won’t limit my power.
You have a foundation for the youths, what are some of the things that you have done for them?
We were hungry at a point in my life because my dad wasn’t around. We went to see my aunty and she told me that we were always begging for food. That broke my heart. So, anytime I see people that are hungry, I just want to help them.
I have been giving back for such a long time. For me, charity is caring for others and not mocking others because they asked to help. People should change because you won’t be rich forever. Nollywood can do better; let’s care more. That is why I use my money for charity with no help.
As little as noodles, no one has given me, but I am there for them.
I would say that my heart is different and I love it. You can’t mock me and running all this takes strength and vigorous energy. I am really proud of myself and what I have achieved. I am ambassador over 20 times because of charity and I have been inducted into a Charity Hall of Fame, with Mr Tony Elumelu, Dangote, Rochas Okorocha; it has just four personalities. That is a feat. I am also UN, Disease Control Ambassador on Hygiene and Miss Goodwill Ambassador. In addition, I am also a federal marshal for road safety and loads of others from the United Kingdom to the United States. Truly, a grand feat.
The trend now is that a number of actors and actresses are now going into politics. Do you also have plans for this in the future?
No, I am not interested in politics. Charity is different from politics. It is a selfless thing, I am not expecting anything.
Tell us about running Modehouse Entertainment and your passion for music
Modehouse is my company’s name and we produce movies and help others to produce as well. We have a number of productions coming out soon; watch out for Blood battle from DSR and more ahead.
How do you relax?
When I am not working, I just go to sleep because I need it. The truth of the matter is that the body needs rest too, so I feed it. I read books and my collections are dope. I love reading and no TV. I really don’t watch television. I travel when I can, all year round. I love to go to the beach and enjoy driving boats. I also love going to the cinema to watch the latest movies and attend movie premiers.
What type of books do you like to read?
I like inspirational books. I also like to read thriller novels. I love books by Joel Austen; he is a preacher and he writes amazing books. I love reading biographies of great leaders like Barrack Obama and Olusegun Obasanjo. I just love history.
You were said to be in coma for days when you were sick, some months back, what are your memories of that experience?
I am very great now. So, I don’t want to revisit the past. I thank everyone who was there for me. My fans kept calling; I got a lot of text messages and a few visits. I must say a big thank you to Mrs Rashidat Bello, who was a life saver. That’s my queen and First Lady. God bless her immensely.
Tell us more about the young people that you mentor
Yes, I support the youths and they inspire me. I pay school fees for over 10 students at the moment. I don’t even know how I pay salaries in all the businesses that I run. And I give them roles without stress and I pay because I don’t want free jobs. I don’t do free jobs. That is punishment; it is bad if you don’t help others.
It’s strange how things have turned out. God is awesome and more than anyone. My heart is clean and I am grateful to Kogi State First Lady, Mrs Rashidat Bello, who took care of me and the Kano State emirate. Thank you to all my co stars who supported me in their own way. The crux of the matter here is that we rise by lifting others. I am on my own and friends to all; no hate and shade. The only shade I have is my eye glasses (laughs).
