I don’t pay attention to temptations from women —Okikiola Bakare

Call Okikiola Bakare a man who understands his craft and gives his best when the opportunity arises, and one may only be stating the obvious. This is because the fast-rising actor keeps justifying the reason many people call him a director’s delight. With his acting prowess already earning him recognition from every side, Bakare in this interview with SEGUN ADEBAYO simply says this is just beginning of bigger things to come.

You are emerging as one actor who some people describe as a director’s delight. What brought you to this level?

I love my work, I love what I do and I believe every role I’m given deserves my best and full attention; I take every job as if it was mine. I guess that might be one of the reasons I am getting this much of attention. I try to bring in ideas when I can to make sure what is being created is the best every time!

What gave you the impression that making movies could work for you?

Funny enough I was involved in a drama group in school with my friends but I was kicked out.

You were kicked out by whom?

I believe that is the story for another day. The most important thing is that I didn’t let that stop me. I believe anything I put my hands on will work for me, as far as God is in it! Making movies is something I love doing so far I put God first. It has to work for me.

While it may be true that you are rising, it didn’t just happen overnight. How was it like in your early days in the industry?

Absolutely, nothing happens overnight. Every great actor you see today spent time in the minor roles. Growing up in the industry has been great for me; I’m still growing and learning ever day. I’m breathing as well. I’ve had and still have wonderful mentors and teachers, directors and older actors who have sowed seeds in me. I’ve been so blessed to have wonderful senior colleagues in this industry who don’t want you to go through what they went through, so they give you words of wisdom.

You have done well for yourself but it seems life is just starting for you. What are your plans to keep this momentum going?

I believe that it is one thing to be talented, but talent without training and hard work is like one leaving room for distraction. So, I plan to continue to learn and build myself. I have dreams for Nollywood in itself. I have dreams to build upcoming actors after me, create and so much more.

 

As an actor, producer and model, does it come really easy putting yourself into all of these commitments?

Nothing comes easy; it’s about one’s dedication and how much one wants. One’s reason for doing it and what one wants out of it makes it worth it.

As a young actor with fine looks, how do you cope with temptations coming from women who always want a piece of you?

I really don’t pay too much attention to temptations; I have a goal and a target to meet! I try not to get distracted.

The Yoruba movie industry is expanding daily but with no proper structure that could ensure that producers like you would make return on investment. What is your take on this?

The quality of your work determines your returns in investment. Your work speaks louder when proper measures are taken and investments are made. Yes the industry is expanding greatly, but I believe many people still judge it with the parameters of the early 2000s! Everything takes time; I believe the “structure” we are building will come together soon enough when we work together.

What has been your greatest fear as an actor?

My greatest fear as an actor is not being able to make an impact on this generation and the up and coming ones.

You are fast becoming the darling of many people, especially movie lovers. What does this moment mean to your career and life?

It means everything to me! It’s pure joy for me seeing people appreciate the time and effort I put into every role I’ve done. I’m grateful to my movie lovers! They really make me want to work harder

Does this not come with pressure?

Oh so much of it! The pressure not to disappoint my people is always on my mind. But it’s good pressure! It’s the kind of pressure that reminds me of the reason why I’m still here.

Do you think you have the capacity to live up to expectations from fans and those who want you at your best always?

Yes, and to be honest the best is yet to come. This is just the beginning. I can’t feature in every movie. Even when I’m where I want to be, but I believe the rich want to be richer, I don’t think I’ve seen where the poor pray to the poorer. Even at my peak, hard work continues; when I get there, we continue. I feel I’ve still got a long way to g. I said before this is just the beginning for me.

When you look at how certain elements in the Yoruba movie industry have been painting the industry in bad light with their actions and public outburst, what comes to your mind?

I just continue to pray for the industry and everything it’s made of, personal silence is golden. I don’t know what goes through their minds but who am I to judge?

What prepared a Business Administration graduate for a journey into the movie world?

Having studied Sociology as my first-degree qualification, I’ve been able to introduce the knowledge gained into my art. Social behaviour, patterns of social relationships, social interaction and aspects of culture associated with the everyday living all make up the film industry. Being able to mentally put oneself in character and truly understand the life of who one is supposed to play is truly talent. My MBA is like the icing on the cake which is the management side of the industry.

Coming into industry, you must have been motivated by certain goals. How close are you to fulfilling the dream?

Yes, doing this interview was a goal in itself and also a reality! This is now a stepping stone to my next goal and being able to see myself on TV was a goal and now reality. I’ve attained so many goals already, and I’m grateful to God almighty and everything is a stepping stone to creating my vision!

If acting stops paying you today, what other job do you see yourself doing?

Hmm… It’s interesting because I really can’t see myself anywhere else.  Maybe a footballer; I’m pretty good on my feet; or a writer, something that allows me to use my mind to create.

How hard has it been finding the woman who truly loves you?

It’s been the easiest so far; I have a cheerleader and a best friend who supports my work.