From Gabon to Kannyood
Well, ever since I joined the Hausa movie industry in 2007, people where curious that how could someone who has no knowledge of the language, the customs and values of the Hausa community become a Hausa movie actress? Lest you forget, I was born and brought up in Gabon and I guess that virtually makes […]
Well, ever since I joined the Hausa movie industry in 2007, people where curious that how could someone who has no knowledge of the language, the customs and values of the Hausa community become a Hausa movie actress? Lest you forget, I was born and brought up in Gabon and I guess that virtually makes me to be seen as non-Nigerian and that was why the industry did not fail to identify me with where I came from.
Though, born and brought up in Gabon does not rob me of my natural right. My father happens to be from Adamawa State, so to me it is like coming back to my roots. For me Hadiza Aliyu or Hadiza Gabon does not make me different from what I really am.
From Gabon to Kannywood, how did this happen?
Actually I came to Nigeria on a visit to my sister, and at that time I could only speak Fulfulde and French only. Being that I wanted to stay a little while in Nigeria, I became possessed by the need to understand the Hausa and English languages, being the most frequently spoken languages around me. My sister introduced me to Kannywood movies, because she believes language can easily be learned when demonstrated with actions. All this happened in 2007; gradually I began to learn the languages quickly because of my interest in both languages. However, in the process I became so much interested in becoming a Hausa movie star. I could remember when ever I voiced out my intention to people close to me, they usually laugh at my dreams and called it a childish illusions. But I proved them wrong because within one and a half years, I was able to star in a Hausa movie.
Though it is not easy at it sounds, but what matters here is that Hadiza did make it to the Hausa movie industry. The roads were rough, the risks too many and also the challenges, so also in any other profession. I thank God that today; Hadiza Gabon is what she is thanks to my numerous supporters nationwide.
Did you face any resistance from your family on your decision to join the movie industry?
Yes, my mother was totally against it. But as for my father, we have understand each other very well and he respects my decisions in all matters. So when I spoke to him about this he just said to me “Hadiza, is that what you want to do?” I said yes, dad. Then he said to me, “Always remember that you are a Muslim and where ever you may find yourself be a good ambassador of your religion and of this family.” After that he gave me his blessings. And later on my mother came to realize the importance of what I am doing and she also gave me her blessings.
How did you feel on your first shooting?
Oh! I was so scared. I kept telling myself “common girl you can do it” yet another part of me was telling me “Baby Girl, respect yourself and walk out of this place.” I then got myself composed, it’s like this is what I have chosen for myself why should I keep fretting over it? I gathered all the courage I could summon and I did it.
What is the name of your first movie?
The name of my first movie is Artabu. You will be amazed if I tell you that I acted only one scene in that movie. The reason was that as I have told you I was so scared, but the good thing is that I have overcome the fears and the anxieties coupled with my poor command of the Hausa language.
How would you describe your relationship with your colleagues in the industry?
Very cordial indeed we get to associate freely and they took me without any reservation they offered me assistance and guidance when I need one. In fact, they have been very accommodating and I must commend them on that.
It has been a tradition in the Hausa movie industry to have a godfather; who is yours?
Well I can’t tell you a particular individual is my godfather, like I have said they are all accommodating and helpful towards me. Maybe later I may have one, I don’t really know. To me every one in the movie industry is equally important.
How many movies have you acted in so far?
Actually, I can’t say precisely their numbers, though they are not many. Some of them are not yet released into the market. But I have done a couple of movies that impressed many of many fans.
Where do you see yourself in future in the Hausa movie industry?
I can’t say. Let the future decide that. I want to be seen as someone who cherishes learning and is also willing to learn. Artists are like teachers, we have responsibilities and expectations from the general public. We are more or less custodians of good virtues. Therefore, it is not for us to decide where we want to be; rather it is what we do that will take us to our destined places.
After marriage will you continue acting?
No! I want to be a full time house wife that will take care of her husband and her kids and I believe acting and being a house wife at the same time may not work out well.