“The Highest Amount I’ve Been Paid as an Actress is N300k, But I Made More From Adverts” – Amina Eleha Opens Up

Popular Yoruba Nollywood actress, Amina Eleha, has revealed something surprising about her acting career. In a recent interview, she shared that the highest amount she has ever received for a movie role is just ₦300,000. Despite being well-known in the Yoruba movie industry and having a huge fan base, she says acting does not always pay as much as people think.

Amina Eleha, whose real name is Rukayat Lawal, is a respected actress, producer, and filmmaker in the Nigerian movie industry. She has starred in several hit Yoruba films and is known for her strong acting skills and unique personality. But even with her fame, she says movie producers still pay actors very little.

“The highest amount I’ve ever been paid as an actress is ₦300,000,” she said. “That’s the truth. Most people think we make millions from acting, but that’s not always the case. Some roles are even offered for ₦100,000 or less.”

She went on to explain that she makes more money from other sources like advertisements, endorsements, and influencing on social media. Brands pay her to promote their products online and offline, and that has been more profitable than acting.

“I thank God for adverts. That’s where the real money is. I have worked with many brands, and they pay better than movie producers. Acting gives you fame, but adverts bring money,” she added.

This revelation has sparked conversation online, especially among upcoming actors and fans who believe that once you become famous, you start earning millions. Amina Eleha’s honesty sheds light on the realities many actors face in Nollywood, especially those in the Yoruba-speaking part of the industry.

She also encouraged young actors not to rely only on acting but to look for other ways to earn money. According to her, being active on social media and building a strong brand can attract endorsement deals and business opportunities.

“Young actors should build their brand beyond movies. Don’t wait for producers to call you. Use your social media, create your own content, and look for brands to work with,” she advised.

Amina Eleha also talked about the challenges in the industry. She mentioned how many actors are underpaid, overworked, and not respected enough for their talent. Despite this, she said she remains passionate about acting because it’s something she truly loves.

“Sometimes you shoot from morning till night and still get little money. But I can’t stop acting. It’s my passion. I love entertaining people,” she said.

Fans have reacted with mixed feelings to her statement. Some praised her honesty and encouraged her to keep shining, while others expressed disappointment at how low actors are paid in the Nigerian film industry.

Final Thoughts

Amina Eleha’s story is a wake-up call to both fans and those planning to join the Nollywood industry. It shows that fame doesn’t always equal fortune and that success requires creativity, multiple streams of income, and business sense.

Her journey proves that talent alone is not enough. To truly succeed, actors must learn to use their popularity to open other doors—especially in business and brand deals.

Whether you’re a fan or an aspiring actor, Amina Eleha’s words are a valuable lesson: in today’s world, smart 

work pays better than hard work alone.