Dear readers, we are excited to announce that 'Doing Life With...' is back! After a brief hiatus, we are resuming our bi-weekly feature that highlights the lives, work, and guiding philosophies of individuals. Through this series, we ensure diverse stories are represented on BN.
Today, we feature the multi-talented Ibrahim Suleiman, a renowned Nigerian actor, architect, and artist celebrated for his roles in films such as 'Up North' and 'Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti'. In this exclusive discussion, he opens up about the modern-day experience of being an actor in Nigeria.
Enjoy this engaging conversation!
Interviewer: Hello Ibrahim. How are you doing, and what’s currently keeping you busy?
Ibrahim: I’m doing well, thank you! I am feeling a bit anxious because I have a solo art exhibition launching this weekend, but I’m also excited.
Interviewer: Congratulations on that!
Ibrahim: Thank you!
Interviewer: While many recognize you as an actor, your artistry in visual arts is impressive. Can you share how your journey in acting began, and what other pursuits you have?
Ibrahim: Acting was something I accidentally fell into. Initially, I didn't have any intentions of becoming an actor. After my mother's passing, I lost interest in various aspects of life, leaving my architecture career and stepping away from choreographing. I took a year to process my grief.
A friend invited me to a film set when I returned to Lagos just to pass the time. Before I knew it, I found myself auditioning right there and was hired immediately! I thought it would be a short-lived experience, but now, nearly nine years later, I’ve participated in numerous exciting projects.
In addition to acting, I am also a trained architect (I studied at ABU Zaria), a writer, a storyboard artist for commercials, a voice-over artist, and a self-taught painter and digital artist. But let's stick to the main focus for now, haha.
Interviewer: Yes, let’s stick to that! Can you give us some insights into your upbringing and how those experiences shape your current work?
Ibrahim: I was born and raised in Kaduna State, Northern Nigeria, as the oldest of three siblings. My parents separated when I was six, and my mother raised us on her own, supplemented by her strong faith. We faced significant challenges, but she secured a second job to ensure our needs were met.
Growing up, we valued sharing, honesty, kindness, empathy, diligence, and humor. Laughter played a crucial role in our family, and that influence contributes to how I approach life today. I strive to remain straightforward, work hard, protect my positivity, love deeply, and keep laughing.
Interviewer: I first recognized your talent in Up North. What do you find to be the toughest part about being an actor, especially in Nigeria? And conversely, what do you enjoy the most?
Ibrahim: Haha, the distinction between being an actor in Nigeria and a Nigerian actor is massive!
Being an actor in Nigeria poses significant challenges. Many assume it is purely fun, but the reality is quite tough. Right now, our major issue revolves around selling projects. It's easier to produce quality content than to find the right platforms to promote it. While we had problems with product quality before, we now face issues related to distribution channels.
Personally, I find it challenging to balance the projects I am passionate about with those that pay the bills.
However, the most rewarding aspect of being an actor in Nigeria is the people. I work alongside some of the most dedicated, creative individuals in the industry every day, especially those behind the camera.
Interviewer: Do you have a specific role that resonates with you so deeply that you often feel compelled to re-watch it? Or does every completed film feel like simply another job?
Ibrahim: Some roles are indeed just another task, while others are truly memorable. I’m not a fan of watching myself since I'm always critiquing my performances. Yet, in the past year, I've found great enjoyment in playing villainous characters rather than the charming roles typically associated with me.
Interviewer: Let’s talk about your marriage. What’s the most rewarding aspect of sharing a life with someone else in your field?
Ibrahim: The best part is receiving first-hand advice from someone who understands the industry just as I do. You appreciate the intricacies of career choices and work schedules without needing lengthy explanations.
Interviewer: How does your wife express her love for you, and what brings you joy in your role as a father?
Ibrahim: It’s hard to pinpoint a single example because she finds small and big ways to show her affection. Sometimes she will wait for me to come home late so we can enjoy a cup of tea together, while at other times, she’ll surprise me with thoughtful gestures like arranging tickets for me.
As for fatherhood, it serves as a great motivation for me to strive to be my best self because I know someone believes in me deeply.
Interviewer: What would you consider your proudest moment to date, professionally or personally?
Ibrahim: Professionally, selling out my first art exhibition was a huge milestone for me. Personally, being a father to Keon is my pride and joy.
Interviewer: What little things in life spark joy or excitement for you? Of course, besides Linda and your son, as they are major aspects of your happiness!
Ibrahim: Haha, Linda and Keon will always top my list, but other things that excite me include returning home after a long day, painting on my iPad, enjoying mornings in a beach house, and experiencing bungee jumping.
Interviewer: Have you faced any challenging moments in your career that made you question your path, and how did you handle those feelings?
Ibrahim: Haha, without giving specifics, I cannot stand working with negative or difficult individuals. I have zero tolerance for people who treat others disrespectfully. Life is too short to engage in anything less than enjoyable.
Interviewer: If you had the chance to do something privately without anyone watching, what would it be?
Ibrahim: Some of my most inspired ideas come to me while I’m in the restroom, so perhaps that!
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your time and insights with us, Ibrahim.
Ibrahim: Thank you for having me!
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We extend our gratitude to Ibrahim Suleiman for this delightful conversation and his prompt responses.
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