Deborah Ohiri’s journey of cultural expression, advocacy for women in arts

Deborah “Debbie” Ohiri, an award-winning folksinger, actor, chanter, and vocal coach, has emerged as a formidable voice in the Nigerian art scene. For her, art transcends performance—it is a calling, a way to challenge societal norms, and a platform to amplify conversations about women and other pressing issues. With over 15 years of experience, she has successfully blended cultural expression with advocacy, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse industry.

Born to legendary guitar maestro Bob Ohiri, Debbie’s immersion in music came naturally. Watching her father perform sparked a lifelong passion for the arts, which would later define her career. Although she started as a singing actor, Debbie’s journey into folk music was intentional. She desired something distinctive—a sound imbued with cultural richness. “My orientation came from my father,” she recalls, emphasising his influence as the bedrock of her artistry.

Her upbringing in the Celestial Church of Christ further shaped her unique musical style. As a member of the church, Debbie was exposed to Yoruba chants and drumming, which became integral to her creative identity. While drawing inspiration from global icons like Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, and Celine Dion, she also looked up to trailblazing Nigerian women like Onyeka Onwenu, SalawaAbeni, Asa and Sola Allyson. These influences helped her carve a niche that celebrates African culture while addressing contemporary issues.

Debbie’s professional acting career began a decade ago, and since then, she has made her mark in several acclaimed productions. She contributed to the soundtrack of Kunle Afolayan’s Anikulapo and wrote all the songs and soundtracks for Netflix’s The Trio. She also starred in the stage production Hear Word, directed by Ifeoma Fafunwa, which tackles gender equality and societal discrimination. Her film debut came with Knocking on Heaven’s Door by Emem Isong, and she has since appeared in the Africa Magic series Itura and other notable projects.

Reflecting on her journey, Debbie describes it as rewarding but not without challenges. “There have been highs and lows,” she admits, “but giving up is not the answer. You dust yourself off and keep pushing forward with determination and hunger for success.” Her resilience has seen her through tough times, and she remains steadfast in her belief that perseverance leads to eventual triumph.

Debbie is also an advocate for gender equality, using her platform to call for greater representation of women in the arts. While acknowledging the progress made in recent years, she notes that women are still often sidelined and perceived as weaker. “When we talk about gender equality, it’s not about being the same as men. It’s about allowing women to make choices and have their voices heard,” she explains.

Despite the challenges women face, Debbie considers herself fortunate to have worked with supportive individuals in the industry. She emphasizes the importance of building value and substance, urging women not to compromise their integrity for opportunities. “In my 15 years in the industry, no one can say I gave my body for roles,” she states firmly. “When you build substance, you build respect, and you won’t be brushed aside.”

For Debbie, continuous learning is key to growth. She credits training and mentorship for her development and encourages aspiring artists to seek out opportunities to refine their skills. “Talent is important, but so is skill. Get trained, find a mentor, attend theatre workshops, and never give up,” she advises.

Debbie’s journey is not just about personal success—it’s about inspiring others to embrace their cultural identity, overcome barriers, and advocate for change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and advocate, her story serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for women in the arts and beyond.