Nnamdi Agbo: Playing Historical Role Has Taught Me Leadership is Heavy Responsibility

Nollywood actor Nnamdi Agbo is quickly becoming a notable figure in the Nigerian film industry. He has appeared in prominent productions, including ‘Badamasi,’ where he portrayed Mohammed Babangida, and as Prince Nwoye in the Showmax Original epic series ‘Cheta M.’ He also starred in Clarence Peters’ ‘Inside Life’ series and recently played Skipper in the Play Network/Netflix Original film ‘Hijack 93.’

A classically trained actor, Agbo holds a degree in Theatre and Film from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. In 2017, he was awarded a scholarship to attend film school at CinéFabrique, Lyon, France, by the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) after being named the best acting student. His talent has also been recognized at the EbonyLife Creative Academy, where he was listed among the Top 3 best male actors in 2022. In 2021, he won the maiden edition of Access Bank’s Accelerate TV Acting Challenge.

Agbo made his directorial debut in 2022 with the short film ‘Bound: Lost in the Moment,’ which he wrote, produced, and co-directed. The film delves into the subject of multiple personality disorder, a rarely discussed mental health issue in Nigeria.

Vanessa Obioha recently spoke with the young actor, who opened up about his journey in Nollywood._

How would you describe your journey with acting and the broader world of art?

Acting is another dimension of life for me. It’s not just a career but a gateway to understanding different aspects of human nature and the world. Every role I take on allows me to connect deeply with emotions, situations, and perspectives beyond my own. In a way, acting has become my third eye, making me more conscious of the endless possibilities within the world of art. It’s been an exhilarating rollercoaster ride, one that I approach with both excitement and a sense of wonder.

There’s a saying, “Acting is where life happens.” Does this resonate with you? How do you balance your characters with personal reality?

Absolutely, acting is a powerful reflection of life’s highs, lows, and complexities. It brings you face-to-face with raw emotions and life experiences that can be intense and transformative. The balance lies in constantly reminding myself that I am not the character—I’m interpreting them. When I finish a role, I make a conscious effort to disconnect by indulging in hobbies and personal time, which helps me step out of character. This reset is very important to me as it helps me maintain my own reality without letting roles cloud my personal identity.

You’ve played several roles, from ‘Hijack 93’ to ‘Badamasi.’ Do you feel like your career is moving at high speed? How do you manage the demands of these roles?

Staying grounded is essential. I’ve been lucky to work alongside industry veterans whose wisdom reminds me to approach each role thoughtfully. For me, it’s about learning, researching, and not letting the demands overwhelm me. Acting is like any other job—on some level, you have to keep a calm mindset, take it day by day, and trust that the work you put in will speak for itself.

How has playing diverse characters changed your worldview and how you see yourself?

Each character I’ve portrayed has peeled back layers of myself that I hadn’t explored. I see acting as a journey of self-discovery, one where I’m constantly learning about human nature. For every role, there’s an opportunity to tap into different mindsets and worldviews without judgment. This openness has expanded my own understanding of people and the world. It’s been eye-opening to see the world through a character’s eyes, and I believe it has made me a more empathetic and curious person.

What are your thoughts on fame, and how has it impacted your life? Does it bring unique challenges?

Fame is a responsibility more than a privilege. It’s a platform that I feel should be used to make a positive impact on others. I believe that if you’re given a spotlight, there’s an obligation to use it for something meaningful. I see myself as a vessel, using my gifts to help, inspire, and give back. Fame can bring its own pressures, but keeping my purpose in mind helps me stay focused on the bigger picture.

Has a particular script or role ever made you reflect deeply on your career path?

There isn’t a single project that stands out, but I believe every role, in some way, has made me reflect on my career and choices. Each project makes me question, understand, and sometimes rethink how I approach acting and life itself. These moments, however small, are what make the journey so meaningful.

How has your theatre background influenced your on-screen performances?

Theatre is the bedrock of my acting. It’s where I learned the discipline and nuances of performance, which are critical for film as well. Theatre demands a full-bodied, external expression, while screen acting requires more internalized, subtle movements. Moving between these two mediums challenges you to adapt your technique and remain aware of what each one demands. For me, theatre set the foundation, and it has been a huge advantage in refining my skills for screen.

You’ve portrayed a few historical figures. What draws directors to cast you in these roles, and what lessons on leadership have you learned?

I think directors can sense my passion for history and our identity. I am deeply invested in understanding where we come from as a people because it shapes who we are. Playing these historical roles has taught me that leadership is a heavy responsibility, one that requires strength, vision, and empathy. It has also shown me that even leaders are imperfect and are constantly making choices they believe are best for their people.

Mental health is a significant topic. Why did you choose it for your directorial debut, and how have your experiences shaped your perspective?

Mental health is critically under-addressed, especially in Nigeria, where statistics show that 20% of the population faces some form of mental health challenge. After witnessing someone struggle with multiple personality disorder, I felt compelled to raise awareness. My research opened my eyes to how often people suffer in silence, unaware of their condition. So ‘Bound’ my directorial project is my way of contributing to that conversation and hopefully sparking more understanding and support for those affected.

How would you define your personal brand? What values do you prioritize in your work and public life?

My brand is rooted in truth, discipline, and work ethic. I strive to bring honesty and integrity to everything I do, whether on-screen, in personal interactions, or behind the scenes. Discipline and dedication are my guideposts, and I hope that these values are clear in the way I conduct myself both professionally and publicly.

Are there any upcoming projects you’re particularly excited about?

Yes, I have some exciting projects coming up, though unfortunately, I can’t disclose details just yet. But I look forward to sharing them with the world soon.

Is there a childhood memory that’s shaped who you are today?
My childhood was a time of learning and grounding. I remember sitting on my father’s car with my family, listening to him and my mum tell folk stories. Each story had a lesson about patience, resilience, and ambition. My parents instilled in us the understanding that life isn’t always easy, but that hard work and wisdom are keys to success. Those moments have had a lasting impact on who I am today.