The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has produced a lot of great thespians since its inception in the early 2000s.
The vibrant film industry owes much of its success and growth to the talents and dedication of these numerous actors. One worthy of mention is the remarkable actor, producer, and director, Saint Obi.
Born Obinna Nwafor, Saint Obi was an incredible actor who left an indelible mark on Nollywood with his immense contribution to the industry, both on and off the screen.
The actor burst into Nollywood in the early 1900s and was shot into the spotlight after his movie, ‘Take me to Maama’ in 2001 where he acted alongside other influential figures in the industry such as Rachel Oniga, Enebeli Elebuwa, among others. The movie was endorsed by Coca-Cola and marketed and distributed by NTA pegging it as the first Nigerian movie to receive a corporate endorsement.
Prior to this, he featured in number of soap operas which aired on NTA and has acted in over 250 movies since his debut in the Nigerian movie industry including Goodbye Tomorrow, Check Point, State of Emergency, and a host of others.
His acting prowess earned him the moniker, ‘Mr. Quality’ because of the intentionality and attention to detail he deployed in his movies. His charming personality and versatility made him a sought-after actor, capable of effortlessly portraying diverse roles and breathing life into each character he portrayed.
Through his movies, the actor had been able to register Nollywood on the global map. One of his most significant contributions to the industry is his role in promoting Nigerian culture and values. He championed storytelling that reflected the richness and diversity of Nigerian society, shedding light on various social issues while entertaining audiences. His movies highlighted the importance of family, unity, and the struggles faced by everyday Nigerians, effectively bridging the gap between entertainment and social consciousness.
Beyond his acting prowess, Obi’s impact on Nollywood extends to his foray into filmmaking and production. Realizing the need for quality productions, he established his production company, Agwhyte International, which paved the way for aspiring filmmakers and actors. By nurturing new talent and providing platforms for them to showcase their skills, Obi contributed to the industry’s growth and opened doors for aspiring individuals to pursue their dreams in Nollywood.
Moreover, the actor’s influence extends beyond Nigeria’s borders. He played a crucial role in popularizing Nollywood internationally, contributing to its recognition as one of the largest film industries in the world. Currently, Nollywood is the second movie industry in the world after Hollywood and has a net worth of $5.1 billion.
Obi’s films have been screened in numerous countries, exposing global audiences to the richness of Nigerian cinema and culture. Through his international collaborations and appearances at prestigious film festivals, he has elevated the reputation of Nollywood and paved the way for future generations of Nigerian filmmakers to explore global opportunities.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, the actor has received numerous accolades and awards, solidifying his position as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures. This include; AMAC’s Best Actor in Nigeria, AMVCA’s Best Actor in Africa, Best Actor in a leading role at the Nollywood Movie Awards, etc.
His talent, passion, and unwavering commitment to Nollywood continue to inspire aspiring actors and filmmakers, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.
The good actor bowed out of the screen in 2002 to focus on movie production while also running his non-governmental organization, Saint Obi Foundation.
His dedication to philanthropy and community development sets him apart as a true icon. He was involved in various charitable initiatives, leveraging his influence and resources to make a positive impact in society. From supporting education programs to advocating for social causes, he consistently demonstrated his commitment to using his platform for the betterment of Nigerian communities.
The news of his death shook the country on May 7, 2023 after loosing a long battle to an undisclosed illness.
282
previous post