Segun Arinze, a legendary figure in the Nigerian film industry, traces his acting journey back to his school days, though his professional career took off in the mid-1980s. During this nascent stage, acting wasn’t a lucrative profession. He recalls the struggles of early Nigerian television pioneers like Baba Sala and Wale Adenuga, who paved the way for the industry’s growth. The emergence of weekend television dramas, including series like ‘Mirror in the Sound’, ‘Cock Crow at Dawn’, and ‘Ripples’, significantly contributed to the industry’s development. The pivotal moment, however, was the release of ‘Living in Bondage’, directed by Chris Ovie, which ushered in the era of home videos and revolutionized the Nigerian film scene, later known as Nollywood. From VHS tapes to VCDs, the industry evolved, culminating in its present-day success and global recognition.
Beyond his acting prowess, Arinze harbors a deep passion for sports, particularly football. He fondly remembers his time as a reserve goalkeeper for Victory College of Commerce in Kwara State, acknowledging his enjoyment of other sports like athletics. While his father initially expressed reservations about his career choice, he eventually came around, even supporting Arinze’s university education in acting. This parental acceptance, albeit initial skepticism, stemmed from the uncertainty surrounding a then-unconventional career path. Arinze’s mother, while also initially hesitant, eventually became supportive, realizing his unwavering dedication to his chosen profession. This shift in their perception marked a significant milestone in his journey, affirming his decision to pursue his passion.
Football, for Arinze, is more than just a game; it’s a metaphor for life. He draws parallels between the sport’s offensive and defensive elements and the daily struggles individuals face in pursuing their goals. A lifelong supporter of Chelsea Football Club, he expresses measured optimism about the team’s prospects under manager Enzo Maresca. He acknowledges Maresca’s initial success followed by a dip in form, but praises the team’s resilience in securing Champions League qualification and winning the Conference League. While acknowledging the cynicism surrounding the Conference League, Arinze believes every coach has a unique style and vision. He refrains from naming a single favorite player, citing his appreciation for Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, and Marc Cucurella, while surprisingly expressing a dislike for Nicolas Jackson.
When discussing Nigerian football legends, Arinze highlights Kanu Nwankwo, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, and Victor Ikpeba as some of the country’s greatest talents, also acknowledging the late Rashidi Yekini’s immense contribution. Faced with the timeless debate of Cristiano Ronaldo versus Lionel Messi, Arinze recognizes both as exceptional players, labeling them “GOATS” (Greatest Of All Time). He emphasizes Ronaldo’s tireless work ethic and Messi’s natural brilliance, underscoring the difficulty in choosing between two such iconic figures. As for Nigeria’s chances in the upcoming World Cup, he emphasizes the importance of the players’ determination and the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) commitment to providing adequate support and resources, urging them to avoid “dirty stupid politics.”
Arinze views acting as a regular job, akin to any other profession, emphasizing its function in providing for his family and paying bills. He acknowledges the public visibility aspect of his career but ultimately considers it a means of livelihood. He encourages his children to explore their interests, offering guidance and support without imposing his preferences. One of his sons shows promising talent in football, playing for his school team, and Arinze expresses his encouragement while prioritizing education as a fallback plan.
To aspiring actors, Arinze’s advice is succinct: focus and avoid shortcuts. He believes a steadfast focus on the craft is essential for success, cautioning against seeking quick fixes and emphasizing the importance of perseverance and dedication in navigating the often-challenging path to a fulfilling acting career. He stresses that dedication and hard work are the key ingredients for achieving long-term success in the industry, reminding aspiring actors that there are no shortcuts to the top. This unwavering focus, he asserts, will prevent mistakes and ensure a steady trajectory towards their goals.
