Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has said she does not plan to leave Nigeria despite the country’s challenges, noting that it remains home and full of opportunities.
Speaking on a panel discussion at 20+ Years in the Media: Real Talk with Kike @7, the actress reflected on her connection to Nigeria and answered a question about how young people can find hope while building careers in the country.
“America trained me, but Nigeria made me,” Bello said, explaining why she would rather remain in Nigeria despite having lived abroad.
When asked what could give young people hope as they build careers in Nigeria, Bello said she perceived opportunities in the country despite its difficulties.
“I pray I never get the opportunity, as they call it, to go back,” she said.
“Yes, you’ll say because I’ve done it before. I’ve been there before. Yes, I agree with that. But because of the opportunities that I’ve seen in this country, and I am still seeing, I don’t ever want to go back. This is home, this is where it is.”
Bello, however, acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians face, particularly concerning electricity, education and healthcare.
She urged young people not to lose hope but to identify their abilities, acquire relevant skills and position themselves to take advantage of available opportunities.
“Look within yourself, what do you have to offer? What is in your hands?” she asked, encouraging them to study, learn and prove themselves capable of delivering value.
The actress also attributed her longevity in the entertainment industry to authenticity and honesty, urging aspiring professionals to remain true to themselves.
“For me to be here for so many years, first of all, I have to be authentic to who I am. If you lie, you keep having to remember the lies; if you tell the truth, it’s easy,” she said.
Bello said faith had also been central to her life, advising young people to hold God tight as they work towards achieving their dreams.
