Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has praised Nollywood star Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, describing her as a national “treasure” whose talent should be harnessed for the development and growth of Nigeria.

Obasanjo made the remarks on Sunday in Lagos during the premiere of Mother’s Love, the actress’ directorial debut. The event took place at Alliance Française Lagos and attracted notable figures from the entertainment industry and beyond.

Speaking about the acclaimed actress, the former president drew her close in a gesture of admiration and pride, stressing that individuals with such creative talent should be encouraged to contribute meaningfully to national development.

“We have a treasure that we must keep and utilise for the development and growth of Nigeria, and there are many like that,” he said. “We have to keep them and bring them to make meaningful contributions.”

While film premieres in Nigeria often feature celebrities and high-profile personalities, the presence of a former president at the event stood out. The 88-year-old former military head of state, dressed in a white agbada with a blue fila, did more than make a brief appearance—he mingled with guests, posed for photographs, and interacted with journalists covering the event.

His presence quickly sparked widespread reactions online, with many social media users describing the moment as a strong show of support for Nollywood. Others viewed the attendance of such a prominent national figure as a powerful endorsement of the industry’s growing global relevance.

The premiere also doubled as a celebration of Jalade-Ekeinde’s 30-year journey in the film industry. Since launching her acting career in the early 1990s, she has featured in more than 100 productions, including notable films such as Mortal Inheritance, Ije, and Alter Ego.

With Mother’s Love, the veteran actress takes a new step in her career by moving behind the camera. The film stars actors including Olumide Owuru, Noray Nehita, and Ifeanyi Kalu, and explores themes of sacrifice and family—ideas that mirror Jalade-Ekeinde’s own experiences as a mother of four and wife to Capt. Matthew Ekeinde.

Her transition into directing places her among several Nigerian filmmakers who have expanded their creative roles in recent years. Industry figures such as Kunle Afolayan, Funke Akindele, Niyi Akinmolayan, Toyin Abraham, and Genevieve Nnaji have also contributed significantly to Nollywood’s growing economic and creative influence.

For Jalade-Ekeinde, the directorial debut represents another milestone in a career that has spanned three decades and helped shape Nigeria’s film industry. And with public commendation from a former president, her latest venture has already received a notable endorsement as Nollywood continues to expand its cultural and global impact.