Going nude will not show the world how great I am – Ogechi Peters
Like or hate her, she goes for what she wants. Rarely do you see her mourn for a life missed opportunity, as the one she couldn't curtail is better described as a lesson learnt. After a successful graduation from school, she advanced her modeling career to acting, where she is today fulfilling her long time dream of thrilling her fans on the Nollywood's big screen. Ogechi Peters in this interview with Ugochukwu Favour-Mayor explains why she would not be considering offers calling on her for a nude on screen, plus other related industry experiences.
Excerpt:
Before acting, what were you doing?
Before I went into acting, I was into modeling, and later I continued as a modeling agent who was given girls ushering jobs. While I was doing that, I was in school as well. But I graduated in 2013.
Why did you choose acting?
I've always loved acting. I used to admire a couple of them, even as I told myself that I would end up going into it someday. So, when I developed the courage to do it, I went for it. And right now, I'm very much happy that I'm doing it.
So far, can you give me list of movies you've done?
Too many of them that I've done in the past, even now as you can see, I'm on another job. But so far, I can remember doing: A night with the governor, Lagos Men, School War, Faithful Sin, Helpless sisters, and so many others.
What are you aiming in the nearest future?
I'm aiming to be better than the best, to get to a level where I will be helping a lot of people, especially children who are in need of assistance through charitable means. You know why? I want those children to know when they grow that people like us were around, and that we never abandoned them in their time of need. Not just that, it will also encourage them to support other growing children in the society. Being in a position where I will be helping people to get empowered is what I'm aiming.
What's your Nollywood experience?
I've been in Nollywood for about three years. Though it was off and on, but I'm here on a full time now. For the experience, I will say it's actually a good one. It's never easy dealing with different kind of people at the same time, but now it's different because I've learnt to accept people the way they are, and understand them, if not you would have issues with a lot of them, especially here in the industry.
Do you believe that there is something like sexual harassment in this industry?
(Laughs) Well, it's the grace of God that is working on my behalf. I have heard of it severally. For it in the Nollywood industry, I can only say for myself, as such issue never came close. Though I wouldn't say as it wasn't made possible by my might, no, it's not my power but of God.
What motivates you?
I'm motivated by love. Love for the arts; love for my career; love for nature and the environment; the love of lovers; love for life and living; and love for the beautiful things of life. Seeing smiles on people's face really motivates me. And I thank God for such gift.
You have regrets?
I have made mistakes which I have learnt from, and I thank God for the strength in facing them. I think we all shouldn't have regrets because we always have something to learn from our past dealings. Learning from the past made me to get to where I am today, and the woman I have grown to be.
Have you ever missed an opportunity in life?
I don't think I have missed any. I believe that every opportunity that comes my way is God's way of advancing or saving me from something, be it missed or achieved.
Can anything make you act nude on screen?
I don't think so. No reason! I don't have to go nude to show the world the great woman that I am.
What are your best moments like?
My best moments? I have a lot of good moments, but I cherish them with my family. My best moments are with my family.
Who is your greatest inspiration in life?
When people ask me who has inspired me the most in life, I definitely tell them my mother. My mum is not just an awesome mum, but my best friend, and my greatest inspiration.
Do you intend producing your own films soon?
If God says yes, I will, but for now I don't know yet.
