Nollywood actor and filmmaker Ibrahim Yekini, popularly known as Itele, has finally opened up on his pre-fame struggles.
In an interview with his colleague, Biola Bayo for her podcast, Talk to B, he revealed that he has faced challenges that almost took his life. He said the challenges almost made him run back to his mother’s womb.
The talented actor revealed that he was like a best friend to his mother as they were both suffering together. He recounted how he would sell jewelry at Bauchi village while his mother sold ready-made clothes.
He credited Papa T for helping him out and listed Richard Mofe Damijo, Yomi Fash Lanso, and Adebayo Salami as his role models. Stele also expressed gratitude to Femi Adebayo, who he stated had made a great impact in his life.
“I have faced challenges that almost took my life. You know, that kind of challenges that make you wish you could run back to your mother’s womb. I suffered when suffering was still original.
Papa T was the one who God used to help me when he returned from London.
I have produced so many films that I don’t like to mention it.
There was a time when I felt I was an unlucky guy. I know it’s the grace of God but I always labored so hard. My mum was selling ready-made; I was selling jewelry. We would hawk around goods around Bauchi village.
I have been in the industry since 1997.
Richard Mofe Damijo, Yomi Fash, and Adebayo Salami are my role modelss. Adebayo Salami is a fortunate man and so are his children. Femi Adebayo has made a great impact on my life. I would love to say a big thank you to Uncle Femi thank you for all you do”.
Itele has undoubtedly come a long way in Nollywood. Last year, he made headlines for his phenomenal role on Jagun Jagun, which got him praise from netizens. Reacting to the positive response from his critics, he pledged to continue to please his fans, stating he is grateful for the accolades.
In 2023, Itele revealed his plans to join Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola at the box office as he teased his movie Kesari. While announcing it on his Instagram page, the talented role interpreter recounted working with Funke and Femi, and how it challenged him in a highly different manner.
That same year, he had bagged a double award, beating his senior colleagues, Afeez Owo, Kolawole Ajeyemi, Segun Ogungbe, and others as the Best Actor of the Year and Best Director of the Year.
The actor had also gotten another recognition for his hard work, as he received a leadership award for his contributions to entertainment. The award was also a reflection of his character in society and mentorship to the youth.
The tor is no doubt reaping the reward of his labor as in July of 2024, he splashed millions on a new house and car. His colleague, Olayinka Solomon made the good news known, as she expressed how excited she was to hear that he reached his goal, and described Itele as an inspiration to many.