Actress, producer, and entrepreneur Lilian Afegbai has steadily carved a name for herself as one of Nollywood’s most versatile talents. More than just a screen star, Afegbai has proven to be a storyteller committed to creating impact, both on and off the camera.
In a recent chat with Naijatimes, Afegbai spoke about her early days challenges, admitting that it was far from smooth.
“One of the biggest challenges I faced was dealing with rejection from producers and people not being willing to take a chance on me as an actress. In the beginning, I heard a lot of ‘no’s, and sometimes it felt like doors just weren’t opening. It was tough, but I chose to see every rejection as redirection — a chance to grow, improve my craft, and build resilience.”
Instead of succumbing to discouragement, Afegbai turned rejection into fuel.
She committed herself to sharpening her skills and proving her worth, a process that eventually transformed setbacks into opportunities.
“Consistency and perseverance paid off,” she says. “Those same ‘no’s eventually turned into ‘yes.’ For me, overcoming challenges has always been about patience, self-belief, and never giving up on my dreams.”
Beyond her acting career, Afegbai has embraced the influence of social media as a game-changer in the entertainment industry. She believes the digital space has democratized storytelling, giving creatives more control than ever before.
“Social media has completely transformed the entertainment industry. It has given power back to creatives and public figures by allowing us to connect directly with our audience, build our brands, and share our stories without waiting for traditional gatekeepers. At the same time, it has made the industry more competitive, because everyone now has a platform and a voice.”
While she acknowledges the pressures of navigating the digital spotlight, Afegbai maintains that the benefits outweigh the challenges. “I believe the impact is largely positive — it creates opportunities, global visibility, and instant feedback — but it also requires balance. As public figures, we have to be intentional about how we use it, making sure we stay authentic while also protecting our mental space. Used wisely, social media is one of the most powerful tools in entertainment today.”