Asma’u Abdullahi Wakili is perhaps one of the few Kannywood actresses currently making waves. The young Fulani actress who made her debut about two years ago has transformed herself into a screen diva within a short period, and in this interview, she talks about her journey to stardom, among other issues.
Who is Asma’u Abdullahi Wakili?
My name is Asma’u Abdullahi Wakili popularly known in the entertainment sector as Asma’u Wakili. I was born in Jos, Plateau State, 25 years ago to a Fulani family. However, I did my primary and secondary schools in Kaduna State.
Presently, I’m an actress, a model and brand ambassador for many products. I have starred in many Hausa films and music videos as well.
I want to change negative portrayal of Hausa people in Nollywood – Sani Muazu
I have no enemy in my acting career – Asma’u Wakili
Why is it that you seem to appear more in music videos than in films?
As an actress and a model, I don’t think there are differences in music videos or films. I have appeared in as much films as I have appeared in music videos. Perhaps, people tend to watch my music videos more than my films and as such, they think I have more music videos than films.
It’s probably because music videos are short and usually played on a daily bases, but as I said earlier, appearing in music videos or films are all part of acting and that is what I am known for.
How did you venture into acting?
I have a passion for the screen business and I grew up with that passion. So, when the time came for me to join, I joined. I started as an actress in Kannywood and I have featured in a lot of Hausa films as well as music videos.
Acting is a profession just like any other profession. Acting has been my passion and I enjoy what I am doing.
What was your parent’s reaction when they discovered that you were joining the film industry?
It wasn’t easy really. You know people have reservations about ladies joining the film industry due to the wrong notions and perception of female artistes. However, as a lady with a Fulani background, I was able to convince my parents and they were able to see beyond the assumptions.
They gave their consent and also adviced me on how best to conduct myself without compromising my religion, traditions, norms and values.
Can you remember your first film?
Yes, I can. It was called ‘Sanda’; unfortunately, the film didn’t see the light of day. However, after that film, I was cast in another in a TV series called ‘Sirrin Boye’, aired by Arewa24 and that was how I became known in the industry. If I may say, ‘Sirrin Boye’ is my blockbuster in Kannywood.
After that TV series, it has been one role after the other. The industry has done a lot for me and I am grateful. I have starred in films like ‘Amarya’, ‘Rabi’, ‘Fatima Bintu’, ‘Bazata’, ‘Akwai Allah’, ‘Yahoo boy’, ‘Yan kwalta’, among many others. I have also starred in music videos like ‘Debbo’, ‘Abin ya motsa’, ‘Yar bel-bela’, ‘Idan so cutane’, ‘Yide’, ‘Sirrin Qalbi’, ‘Ina dake’, ‘Abar Qaunata’, ‘Kwash Kwash’, ‘Da Gaske Qaunarki Nake’, ‘Zokiji’ and many more.
Do you have any regret being an actress?
None at all, acting has been my job and I love doing my job. Remember, I have the blessings of my parents and I am following their advice.
What is your happiest moment as an actress?
A lot has happened to me as an actress. I have many happy moments, but the happiest one was when I travelled to Saudi Arabia. This would forever remain in my books of memorable moments. I have also visited other countries either on film location or on vacations, all thanks to the industry.
How would you describe your relationship with other stars in the industry?
It’s been so wonderful and encouraging. Like I told you earlier, I am barely two years old in the industry and as you can see, I have been accepted and treated as if I have been in the industry all my life. My colleagues have been so encouraging and understanding; they guide and counsel us.
My success in the industry can be attributed to the warm reception I received from my colleagues. That is why we treat one another with respect and humility as a family.
Why are you not so visible on social media?
Asma’u is not a social media star, but an actress. I don’t like getting involved in what has nothing to do with my acting career. I am an upcoming actress and acting is what I do as a person. Some people think I am cunning and playing safe, but the truth is that social media has never been an avenue for me to display my talent or other things, I am an actress and that is all.
Have you ever been ridiculed because of a role you played in a film?
No, I have never been ridiculed but rather I have been praised for roles I played. I go through scripts before agreeing to accept a role. Perhaps, that is why I was able to move in the sector without much ado.
People praise most of my roles and I am such a person that believes in accepting objective corrections and that is why I usually say I have no enemy in my acting career.
Is Asma’u in any relationship?
Let us not discuss that for now, I love my privacy and I don’t like discussing my private life in public.
What do you have to say to your fans?
I love them so much and I really appreciate the support they have been giving me as an actress. I want to use this opportunity to tell them that they should expect more from me and I will continue to be indebted to them. They should also understand that without them, there wouldn’t be us.
