Nollywood, Nigeria’s booming film industry, is filled with stories of actors who fought hard to achieve their dreams.
One of those stories belongs to Sanusi Izihaq, popularly known as Apankufor or Apa, a 30-year-old actor who recently opened up about his struggles, triumphs, and why he almost quit acting.
In a heartfelt interview with Biola Adebayo on the "Talk to B" podcast, Apa shared his journey from working in a bakery to becoming a respected name in Nollywood.
Here’s a simple breakdown of his inspiring story.
Early Life: No Money, No Support, Just Dreams
Long before he became famous, Apa’s life was far from glamorous. He grew up in Nigeria with big dreams but very little support.
His parents couldn’t afford to pay for his education or help him chase his goals. To survive, Apa worked at a "bakery" for years. But even then, life was tough.
“I didn’t have a proper home. Sometimes, I slept wherever I could find space,” Apa revealed.
Despite working long hours at the bakery, he saved money and nurtured his passion for acting. He believed Nollywood was his destiny, but getting there wasn’t easy.
The Big Break… But Not as an Actor
Apa’s first step into Nollywood wasn’t in front of the camera. Instead, he worked "behind the scenes" as a "Continuity Manager".
For those who don’t know, a Continuity Manager ensures that every scene in a movie matches perfectly.
For example, if an actor holds a cup in their left hand in one scene, they must do the same in the next. It’s a job that requires sharp attention to detail.
Apa became so good at this role that his name became famous in Nollywood—even if his face wasn’t.
“Directors knew my name before they knew me,” he said with a smile. “They’d ask, ‘Who is this Apa? We need him on our set!’
But working behind the camera wasn’t enough for Apa. He wanted to act. Unfortunately, some people in the industry didn’t take him seriously.
Challenges: “Older Colleagues Looked Down on Me”
Apa faced many hurdles in Nollywood. Some older actors and directors mocked him because he was young and hadn’t yet proven himself as an actor.
“When I was a Continuity Manager, I was more famous than some actors,” he said. “But when I decided to act, some people treated me like I didn’t belong.”
One painful memory involved a director who had never met Apa but had heard about his work.
Instead of welcoming him, the director “vowed to deal with me”, Apa recalled. During filming, tensions rose, and Apa—who hates toxic environments—broke down in tears.
“I’m someone who believes in love and respect at work. When things get hostile, I get emotional,” he admitted.
Ibrahim Chatta: The Mentor Who Saved His Career
Apa might have quit Nollywood if not for the support of veteran actor "Ibrahim Chatta".
On three separate occasions, Apa tried to leave the industry out of frustration. Each time, Chatta stepped in to encourage him.
“Big shoutout to Ibrahim Chatta,” Apa said. “If not for him, I would have left Nollywood.”
Chatta once found Apa crying after a stressful day on set. When Apa confessed he wanted to quit, Chatta refused to let him give up. “He told me, ‘Go home, calm down, and come back tomorrow. You’re too talented to walk away.’
Chatta even created opportunities for Apa to return to filmmaking. “He called me to work on his projects to make sure I stayed,” Apa shared. “I owe him so much.”
Why He Stayed in Nollywood
When asked why he didn’t quit, Apa credited his faith, passion, and the fans who supported him. “Acting is my purpose,” he said. “I want to inspire people who grew up like me—with nothing but dreams.”
Today, Apa balances acting with his behind-the-scenes work. He’s proud of how far he’s come but admits the journey was lonely. “My parents couldn’t help me, so I relied on God and kind people like Ibrahim Chatta.”
Apa’s Advice to Young Actors
Apa’s story teaches important lessons for anyone chasing a dream:
1. Never let pride stop you from starting small (like working in a bakery or behind the camera).
2. Find mentors who believe in you.
3. Walk away from toxic people—but don’t give up on your goals.
“Nollywood isn’t easy,” Apa said. “But if you’re patient and work hard, your time will come.”
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