Odunola Sabitu, fondly known by her stage name Odunolahmi, is steadily carving out a niche in the Nigerian film industry. A lifelong fan of Nollywood—especially the comedic works of the late Baba Suwe—her love for acting began at a young age. After completing secondary school, she took a bold step in 2009 by expressing her interest to a family friend in the industry. That moment marked the start of her journey into Nollywood.
Early Breakthroughs and Memorable Moments
Like many rising stars, Odunolahmi’s early days in the industry were defined by passion and raw talent. She recalls her first rehearsal vividly: “They gave me a role to play, and I was crying like it was so real. People clapped for me, and that really helped me and motivated me.” It was an early sign of the emotional depth she could bring to the screen.
Her big break came unexpectedly when actor and director Kolawole Ajeyemi gave her a last-minute role in a production. With no time to rehearse, she stepped up to the challenge, trusting her instincts. “The industry is not easy,” she says to aspiring actors. “Don’t give up. Your time will surely come.”
Iran Mi: A Role Close to the Heart
In her latest project, Iran Mi, Odunolahmi takes on one of her most challenging and emotionally charged roles yet—portraying a blind girl. “I always watch movies about blindness,” she explains. “So I was like, ‘I want to do something like this.’” Her dedication to preparing for and embodying the character is evident in her powerful performance, which promises to resonate deeply with viewers.
The film, set for release on Thursday, June 12, 2025, touches on moral and spiritual themes, with a strong cautionary message against ritualistic practices. “They should wait for God’s time,” she says. “Money from ritual is bad.”
Trials, Triumphs, and Turning Points
Odunolahmi’s journey has not been without obstacles. Like many newcomers in Nollywood, she faced tough conditions—struggling with basic needs like food and accommodation. One incident remains particularly painful: being left behind in a remote village during a shoot while others were housed in a hotel. “I cried to God that night,” she recalls. The experience led her to take a break from filming locations in 2017.
Despite these setbacks, she found her footing again by creating her own work. Producing her first two films, Ayelujara and Ogun Owo, marked a significant shift in her career. These projects proved not just her resilience but also her capability behind the scenes. “When people watched Ogun Owo and reached out to say the movie is nice, I was happy,” she shares.
Inspirations and Industry Realities
Odunolahmi looks up to leading actresses like Toyin Abraham and Ruth Kadiri, drawing inspiration from their passion and professionalism. At the same time, she acknowledges the unique challenges women face in the industry, particularly harmful stereotypes and assumptions. “Most men believe industry girls sleep with different men or directors for roles, which is not true,” she states firmly.
Despite these societal perceptions, she maintains a healthy balance between her personal life and her professional ambitions. “My personal life doesn’t affect my career,” she affirms, showing that focus and determination remain central to her success.
Looking Ahead
With Iran Mi poised for release, Odunolahmi hopes the film will not only entertain but also deliver a moral lesson that speaks to today’s audience. Her journey is a testament to perseverance and passion—an evolving story of a young woman who continues to rise, fueled by her belief in the power of storytelling.
As the Nollywood spotlight grows brighter, Odunolahmi stands ready—not just to shine, but to inspire.