- Popular Yoruba actor Ibrahim Chatta has shared his personal struggles and success before the limelight
- The story follows his most recent feat of a N1.4 billion 74-acre film village in Oyo State
- The actor revealed that he was once a bus conductor in Lagos
Renowned Yoruba actor and cultural enthusiast Ibrahim Chatta has shared his success story, highlighting starting out as a bus conductor before building his estimated N1.4 billion film village.
The 74-acre film village is said to highlight traditional Yoruba architectural designs to promote cultural heritage and indigenous films.
In a viral TikTok video, the renowned actor spoke to Kola Olootu, a veteran broadcaster. Chatta recounted some of his experiences and how his film village came to life.
“Growing up, I have always wanted a place where people can act in films. I even prayed about it. I just started with two acres and gradually we are already at 74. something acres. This is not to boast but nobody gave any money to build it nor did I receive any loans, grants or partnerships.
Our fans because they love us would say that Chatta you're underrated. I am not underrated. I don't deserve what God has given me. Who am I? It is not that I have so much money that people don't see. It is what my job needs,” he said.
Chatta said he always finds people commending his stellar performances as an actor. However, he still doesn't believe he acts better than his colleagues.
He further recounted his struggles as a bus conductor in Lagos before he gained fame as an actor. The experience gave him a sense of responsibility, and that was the drive he needed.
“For 8 years, I was a conductor in Lagos. My father sold cement. I had left home since I was 17-19 years old. With my conductor job, I began sending money to my mum at 21/22 years. There are days I'll go hungry for 36 hours. In all honesty, I'll say that God has done much more than I deserve,” the actor added.
Ibrahim Chatta is widely regarded as one of the most talented Nollywood actors of Yoruba origin, championing the culture and heritage of Yoruba culture. Known for his traditional chants in films, he has appeared in titles like House of Ga’a, Lakatabu the monster, Olokiki Oru and Osoronga.
Netizens react to Chatta’s success story
Following the video of Chatta sharing his success story of achieving his film village, Netizens have something to say. Many hailed the actor, who they described as underrated and exceptional.
See comments below:
@zeebron24 said, “Yoruba will say asiri bibo O se agba owonini, sometimes you’ll pull some strings even you will be surprised how you did it. Allahu Akbar.”
@BayoAriyo128416 wrote, “MASHA ALLAH. May God Almighty Continue to Provide for you and Everyone of us.”
@Oluwole74325646 said, “This is the problem with Yoruba and some of my African people, they keep on mentioning God’s name to deceive people. My brother tell us what you do so that people can learn from you.”
@tundeoyemade_ commented, “Na this kind guest we go like see for Honest Bunch.”
@walekazm said, “Me as God: Shatta, you have referenced me, Now! let’s move to another level of greatness. God for you.”
@ADENIYIOLUFEMI12 said, “Honestly,I love this guy,so humble and never downgrade anyone,his so wonderful...May Allah be praised.”
Movie Review: Odunlade Adekola’s ‘Lakatabu’ is a mixed bag of improvements and shortcomings
Earlier, TheRadar reviewed that with yet another movie outing, legendary Nollywood actor, Odunlade Adekola, continues his pursuit of greatness in the movie industry.
He released Lakatabu (The Monster) to cinemas nationwide on June 21, 2024, after premiering it the week before. The movie, which has already raked in over N50 million at the box office, boasts of a star-studded cast, with popular actors such as Lateef Adedimeji, Adunni Ade, Ibrahim Chatta, Akin Lewis, Bolanle Ninalowo, Yomi Fash-Lanso and Adebayo Salami all featuring.