I believe Kannywood will lead Africa’s film industry – Nasiru Naba

Nasiru Bello Sani, popularly known as Nasiru Naba, is a Kannywood film producer and actor. He recently emerged winner in the Best Supporting Actor category in the just concluded City People Awards held in Lagos. In this interview, he speaks about his rise to stardom, the future of Kannywood and more. Excerpts: Weekend Magazine: You […]

Nasiru Bello Sani, popularly known as Nasiru Naba, is a Kannywood film producer and actor. He recently emerged winner in the Best Supporting Actor category in the just concluded City People Awards held in Lagos. In this interview, he speaks about his rise to stardom, the future of Kannywood and more. Excerpts:

Weekend Magazine: You were once a businessman. What drew you to the movie industry?

Nasiru Naba: I had the passion to be in the film business as a profession. As an economist I saw a lot of opportunities to invest in the opportunities the industry offers. Initially, I ventured into it as a producer, but along the line I found out that I had more to offer as I discovered my acting talent. As it turned out, I later became an actor and a producer of many movies within a short period of time in the industry. I consider myself lucky to have received recognition for my work within this time.

WM: How did family and friends react to your decision to delve into the film business?

Naba: My family and friends knew my capability and so were supportive. I enjoyed and still do enjoy a lot of goodwill and prayers from them. On my part, I have tried all I can to protect my religion and tradition in the movies I act or produce. I also try to keep to the rules and regulations in movie making.

WM: How would you describe your first experience on screen?

Naba: To be frank with you, it wasn’t easy. Acting is not as simple as it may look because it needs a lot of courage, bravery and ability to translate words into action. When I first started, it was like being on a hot seat in a hot room, but gradually I was able to master it all and here I am today.

WM: How many films have you starred in so far?

Naba: That is a difficult question to answer. So far, a rough estimate will put the number at more than 20. In some I was a supporting actor, others as lead. I have also produced a lot of films, most of which have been succesful over the years. I was the executive producer of the film ‘Karkara, A Rayuwa, Jarabta’ and so many others.  I was the lead actor as well as supporting actor in movies like ‘Wankan Gida,’ ‘Dakin Amarya,’ ‘Takaddama,’ ‘Ruwan Dare,’ ‘Kalan Dangi,’ ‘Tsalle Daya,’ ‘Jidda’ and many more.

WM: What was it like being honoured in the City People Awards?

Naba: It was indeed a historic moment for me and the entire Kannywood movie industry. Being nominated and also emerging as the winner in the Best Supporting Actor category has really made me proud of being part of the movie industry. I however, strongly believe that, my victory marks the beginning of more good days to come. I won the award based on the role I played in the movie ‘Takaddama’ produced by Alhaji Sheshe. I am optimistic that this is the will of God, and I am grateful to God for making it possible for me to go this far.

WM: Where do you see Kannywood in the next five years?

Naba: Kannywood has come of age. You will believe me when I say that there has been a lot of positive developments over the years. The industry has passed through a lot to be where it is today, and we are all living witnesses to the remarkable achievement it has made so far. I believe that in a short period Kannywood will begin to attract huge investments from outside and within the country. I am optimistic that it will lead the entertainment industry, not only in Nigeria, but in the continent as a whole.