“‘It Was God’s Plan’: Ruth Kadiri Opens Up On Her Unexpected Journey Into Nollywood”

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri has recounted how her remarkable journey into acting and screenwriting began, describing it as a mix of passion, persistence, and divine intervention.

Speaking in a recent interview on Jay On Air TV, Kadiri reflected on her early struggles and how a chance encounter at the National Theatre became the turning point in her career.

According to Ireporter Online, the actress narrated that growing up in a challenging environment made her determined to pursue acting, which led her to attend an open audition at the National Theatre. Upon arrival, however, she was discouraged by the large number of aspiring actors.

“I got there and saw like a thousand people. I looked around and said to myself, ‘there’s no way I’m getting this role; the crowd is intimidating.’ Then I saw a notice about screenwriting classes. Maybe it was God’s direction because I just walked into the office,” she recalled.

Kadiri revealed that fate smiled on her when a tutor at the Theatre, who had space for one more student, allowed her to join his screenwriting class for free after learning she could not afford the fee.

“He said I had to pay, and I told him I didn’t even have transport fare to go home. He eventually told me to join the class without paying. That opportunity changed everything for me,” she recounted.

The actress noted that the training she received became the foundation of her thriving career in Nollywood.

“Learning those basics shaped my journey. The first script I wrote became a hit. The producer didn’t even believe in me at first and sent it to Tonto Dikeh and Uche Jombo. I think Tonto kept telling him she really liked the script. He didn’t want to pay me, but I didn’t care; I just wanted a small role. Eventually, he agreed to shoot it, and the film was a success. That was how everything began,” Kadiri said.

Her inspiring story underscores how determination and seizing unexpected opportunities can open doors to lasting success in the entertainment industry.