Anthonia Ibeh: Actors Have No Pension Benefits, Featured In Over 50 Movies Within 7 Years
Nollywood actress Anthonia Ibeh, a rising star from Imo State, specifically Oru-East Local Government, attended Oguta Girls High School in Imo State. Her exceptional brilliance during her secondary school years led her to Nnamdi Azikiwe University, where she pursued a degree in Computer Science Education. After graduating, she completed her mandatory National Youth Service in Delta State.
Standing at 5.2 ft tall, this talented actress entered the film industry in 2018. Despite the relatively short time, she has already appeared in over 50 movies.
Anthonia’s love for her craft has often led her to skip lectures to attend auditions and film shoots.
At the start of her career, she surprised her parents with her talent, leaving them in awe when they saw her on screen. Although they were pleased, they warned her about the potential pitfalls of the industry, cautioning her about deceitful individuals involved in drug-related activities, envy, and backbiting.
Now in her early thirties, Anthonia reflects on her modest upbringing, emphasizing that she hails from a family of seven and was not born into wealth. Her father, a retired teacher, and her mother, a businesswoman, instilled in her the values of hard work and perseverance.
During her free time at the University, the actress played football, and she is known to be a fan of the well-known Stamford Bridge club, Chelsea, in a more casual manner.
The stunning and vocal actress, who is fluent in her native Igbo dialect and English, took a few questions during a conversation with CREEKVIBES OLUWADAMILARE DANIELS.
Enjoy excerpt;
What does it take to date Anthonia Ibeh?
Nothing much, good conduct coming from a mature mind.
What is a significant insight that you have learned from life?
It is important to practice patience and tolerance towards those around you. Everyone has unique characteristics, so lacking patience in handling different individuals may lead to frequent conflicts.
What was the allure that called you into the world of make-believe?
Acting, to me, involves embodying different characters and blending the roles of an orator; through miming and mimicking, which are essential aspects of me. In essence, I would say that immersing myself in characters is what drew me in.
As an actor are you planning to produce your film soon?
Yes, that is my aim.
What steps are you taking to transform your aim into a reality?
I am diligently striving towards my aim, the storylines are accurately handed down. Engaging the needed actors to bring the movie to life is another herculean task. I mean the finances, acquiring the equipment and setting up other facilities are crucial for me to fully grasp the project before diving in headfirst.
We would appreciate it if you could share the names of five movies that got your best.
All of my films have my utmost dedication, as I firmly believe that anything worth doing is worth doing well. I pour my heart and soul into every role I undertake:
1. Clap of Royalty, 2. Lost of A Princess, 3. Akawo Business, 4. The Mad’s Man Daughter, and 5. Stubborn Beans.
How did you scale through the advances of the male friends while in the higher institution?
During our assignments, we collaborated closely, however, there was never any romantic involvement. I was fortunate to have had some wonderful male friends around me, but our interactions were solely focused on academic growth. They saw me as a sister figure, just as I considered them to be like my brothers.
While growing up what were your ambitions?
I believed that education is essential for achieving success in life. Even as an actor, it is necessary to read and understand scripts in order to effectively portray the characters.
As an actor, there is no pension benefit, so it is important to save what you earn. On the other hand, working for a company or government agency provides access to a pension scheme that will provide financial security if retired.
Are you saying there is no money in the movie industry?
I am not saying there is no money in making movies o, there is indeed money to be candid, but it is important to understand that patience is required for the earnings to start rolling in.
What is your overview of Nigerian actors?
The industry often showcases a facade of wealth and success, but in reality, many actors resort to shady dealings to achieve quick riches.
As an insider, I will be glad to inform you that, what is portrayed on social media by some actors is not an accurate reflection of their personality.
When interacting with certain individuals, you revealed that you work as an actor, they may inquire about your financial status and question why you have not purchased a mansion in Lekki. It is amusing.
Some actors allegedly engage in illicit activities to amass wealth quickly. Nevertheless, you have chosen not to compromise your integrity, and you have nothing to flaunt, the public glare at your conduct, particularly when those flaunting their riches emerged long after you made your significant acting debut.
In a nutshell, individuals in the industry exhibit a fake lifestyle.
Have you experienced fans’ reactions towards you; where did it happen?
It occurred in Ekiti during my orientation camp when a lady approached me and said, “I recognize you, you’re an actor, right?” I thought to myself, ‘Ye! This lady wants to embarrass me.’ However, I also felt a jolt of happiness knowing that people watched the movies I had starred in.
What is your annoying habit?
When you talk too much, it pisses me off.
What do you want Nigerians to know about you?
I want Nigerians to know that, if they see me in a movie, I am committed to depicting a real-life story role, from which they will undoubtedly derive beneficial lessons.
If your husband decided to have a DNA test for his two children after marriage due to doubts about their paternity, and later found out that he is indeed their father, how would you react?
I will be disappointed due to the lack of trust he exhibited, however, I will shrug it off.
If you could only keep one social media handle for the rest of your life, which one of them would you choose?
I like TikTok.
What are the four things you cannot do without?
Prayer, Reading, Listening to News and browsing the net.
Have you got any role models?
Patience Ozokwor, Genevieve Nnaji , the late Mr Ibu, and Osofia.
Whil growing up, did Osofia’s impact influence your interest in the film industry?
Yes, it did a great deal.
Give three relationship tips for a lady falling in love for the first time.
She should be careful.
It would help if she is prayerful.
Investigate the person wanting a relationship.
Which country around the world would you want to visit?
I like the United States.
Who is your favourite Nigerian musician?
Runtown, one of his tracts ‘Mad Over You’ it’s a nice song.
What is your favourite food?
Rice and stew including morsels with good soup.
