Five minutes with Ibrahim Maishunku

How did you get into acting?

I can remember a little about how I started. It was in 2007. I was with my friends cruising in a car when my cousin wrote a story about us and told me that he wanted to shoot the film. So he asked if I was interested in acting in the film. And I asked my friends if I should go ahead. They told me not to go into acting because they think it will lower the image of my family. But I took up the role and today I have travelled far and wide as a result of being an actor. I thank my mum and even Kannywood for affording me the opportunity.

Which is your best movie so far?

 My Best movie is Jamila Da Jamilu which is very interesting and is toping the chart in Kannywood now. I was the principal character in the film. I was Jamilu in the film and there was Jamila.

Tell us about your educational background?

I went to Federal College of Education Kano but I did not finish. This was because I got the contract to act in a play, so I left school to do this.

Are you fulfilled being an actor?

I am very much fulfilled. It is a great achievement for me. It has afforded me opportunity to travel far and wide.

Where do you see Kannywood in the next five years?

I think we will attain greater heights. Because we are using all the effects other filmmakers are using. That is in terms of equipment, cameras, lightings system. Kannywood is seriously growing. Though it is an industry solely owned by the private enterprise, it is growing.   

What challenges have you faced as an actor?

When I started acting, people were saying I will bring my family to disrepute because my family is a great family; that is the Maishunku family in Kano. But when people started watching my movies, I started receiving phone calls from family and friends. While some said I was doing a good job, others said I have made a wrong choice being an actor.

Are you married?

Yes I am married and I have a daughter.

What does the Award given you by Best Moment Magazine mean to you?

I thank God and the organiser, Lavonne for recognising my efforts. I dedicate the awards to my mum.