Actress and producer, Linda Ejiofor, recently bagged a historic win as ‘Best Lead Actress’ and ‘Best Supporting Actress’ at the last Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards. She tells FAITH AJAYI about her career and experiences outside the industry
Congratulations on your record-breaking achievement at this year’s AMVCA. Looking back at your journey, what emotions come to mind when you compare where you started to where you are today?
Gratitude, more than anything else. When I look back at where I started, I see a young woman with big dreams, a lot of hope, and very little certainty about how things would unfold. To be where I am today, with my work recognised in such a historic way, is incredibly humbling. It reminds me that every season mattered: the wins, the setbacks, the waiting, and the growth. I am grateful to God, to everyone who believed in me, and to the audience that has continued to support my journey.
Can you take us back to your early days in Nollywood and the experiences that shaped the actress we see today?
My early days taught me resilience. I simply wanted to become a better actress with every role. I learnt very quickly that talent alone isn’t enough. You need discipline, humility, patience, and a willingness to keep learning. Every set, every director, and every role contributed to my growth. Those experiences shaped the actress I am today.
What were some of the biggest struggles or uncertainties you faced while trying to establish yourself in the industry?
Like many actors, I experienced seasons when opportunities didn’t come as often as I had hoped. There were moments when I wondered if I was doing enough or if I was on the right path. The uncertainty can be difficult because so much of this industry is outside your control. But, I learnt to focus on what I could control, which include my preparation, professionalism, and commitment to the craft.
You have built a reputation for consistency rather than controversy. Was that a deliberate career choice, and how challenging has it been to stay true to yourself in an industry that is constantly evolving?
I wouldn’t necessarily call it a strategy; it is simply who I am. I have always believed that the work should speak louder than anything else. Staying true to yourself can be challenging in any industry, especially one that’s constantly changing, but I’ve learnt that authenticity lasts longer than trends. I have never felt pressured to become someone else to remain relevant.
Do you see your historic AMVCA win as a reward for years of hard work, or does it feel more like a new beginning with greater expectations?
I think it’s both. It feels like a beautiful acknowledgement of years of dedication, but it also feels like the beginning of a new chapter. Recognition brings greater responsibility and higher expectations, but I welcome that. It challenges me to continue growing and pushing myself creatively.
What does this AMVCA win mean for you as an actress, and how do you think it will influence the types of roles you pursue going forward?
This win is incredibly meaningful because it acknowledges years of dedication to my craft. Going forward, it encourages me to continue seeking roles that challenge me creatively and allow me to tell meaningful stories. I want to keep growing and exploring new dimensions as an actress.
Has winning such a prestigious award changed the way you see your place within Nollywood and the legacy you hope to build?
I think it has reinforced my sense of responsibility. I’ve always wanted my work to speak for itself and contribute positively to the industry. This recognition encourages me to continue pursuing excellence and to leave behind a body of work that inspires and stands the test of time.
What opportunities do you hope this recognition will open up for you, both locally and internationally?
I hope it creates opportunities to collaborate with more filmmakers, explore diverse stories, and work across different markets. Storytelling is universal, and I’d love the chance to contribute to projects that reach audiences both locally and globally.
Beyond talent, what personal values or principles have guided your journey and contributed to your success?
Faith, integrity, consistency, and gratitude. Faith has kept me grounded, integrity has guided my decisions, consistency has sustained me, and gratitude has helped me appreciate every stage of the journey. Those values influence not just my career but my life as a whole.
How have marriage and motherhood influenced your perspective on life and your approach to your craft?
Marriage and motherhood have made me more intentional about everything. They’ve taught me the importance of balance, perspective, and presence. They’ve also deepened my emotional understanding of people and relationships, which naturally enriches my work as an actress.
How has the fact that you’re married to a fellow actor strengthened your relationship and career?
One of the biggest advantages is that we genuinely understand each other’s realities. We understand the demands, schedules, and emotional investment that come with the work. That understanding creates a strong foundation of support. We celebrate each other’s wins and encourage each other through challenges because we’ve both experienced them firsthand.
How do you balance the responsibilities of motherhood with the pressures of acting?
Balance is an ongoing process, not a destination. Some days are easier than others. What helps is being intentional about my priorities and making sure that when I’m with my family, I’m fully present. I also have a strong support system, which makes a huge difference.
What lessons has motherhood taught you about patience, resilience and emotional depth that now reflect in your performances?
Motherhood has stretched my capacity for patience and taught me a deeper kind of selflessness. It has also made me more emotionally aware. As an actress, you’re constantly drawing from human experiences, and motherhood has given me a richer understanding of love, vulnerability, sacrifice, and resilience.
Off the movie set, what are the passions, routines, and simple pleasures that keep you grounded?
I am actually quite simple. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, watching movies—especially Korean dramas—reading, and having meaningful conversations with people I love. The simple moments are often the ones that recharge me the most.
How important has family support been throughout your journey, particularly during periods when success seemed distant?
Family support has been invaluable. Having people who believe in you, pray for you, encourage you, and remind you of who you are when things get difficult is a gift. During uncertain seasons, that support gave me strength and perspective.
Looking ahead, are there specific genres, characters or creative challenges you still dream of exploring as an actress?
Absolutely. One of the exciting things about acting is that there’s always more to discover. I would love to explore more complex, character-driven dramas, historical projects, action roles, and stories that push me outside my comfort zone. Growth happens when you’re challenged.
If there is one thing you would like people to remember about you, what would that be?
I would like to be remembered as someone who lived with grace, integrity, kindness, and purpose. Awards are wonderful, but the impact you have on people and the way you treat others matter just as much.
What are the next big goals on your vision board, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I want to continue growing as an actress, take on more challenging projects, and tell stories that matter. Personally, I want to continue building a beautiful life with my family, remain present for the people I love, and keep growing into the woman God has called me to be. For me, success is not just about achievements; it’s about living a meaningful and balanced life.