Veteran Nollywood actor and producer, Azeez Taofeek Alade, has opened up on his decades-long journey in the Nigerian film industry, tracing his passion for acting back to his primary school days.
The seasoned filmmaker, who officially joined the industry in March 1996 through the Ifepade Theatre Group, revealed that his initial foray into acting was far from glamorous. Recalling his very first acting experience, Alade noted with a sense of nostalgia, “People laughed at me.”
However, that early discouragement did not deter the actor, who first discovered his knack for entertainment as a young boy. “When I was in primary school, we used to celebrate end-of-year parties. I was the one who usually organized and performed in them, and from there, I developed a deep interest in the arts,” he explained.
Today, Alade boasts an impressive filmography, having worked with top indigenous directors across various eras of Nollywood. His acting credits span numerous celebrated titles, including Owomalu (directed by Araosan), Obanikoro (directed by Samson Oluwole), the historical epic Esugbayi Eleko (directed by Bayo Tijani), Dalemo (directed by Motilola), and Aja Nlekoko (di-rected by Yemkem). He has also formed a strong collaborative bond with director Wasiu Owoiya, featuring in several of his projects such as Majala, Ajilekege, Abogunde, Lalu, and Opake.
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Beyond acting, Alade has built a solid portfolio as a producer. He made his production debut with Gbafun in 2005, followed by Alhaji Agba in 2008, Ododolowo in November 2010, Edan in 2015, and most recently, Ika (Wickedness), released in June 2026.
Speaking on how he navigates the unpredictable terrain of film production, Alade credits his strong faith. “I am always happy because if anything happens to me, I believe God will take con-trol. I always think that if any challenge happens, it is just a part of life. I always give glory to God,” he shared.
With a dynamic brand evolution in the works over the next five years, Alade offered words of wis-dom to the new generation of filmmakers eager to make a quick mark in Nollywood.
“My advice to the new generation in the industry is to have patience. I will always tell them that slow and steady wins the race,” he advised.
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