Mercy Aigbe: I remain authentic to my brand

Nollywood actress, director, fashionista and entrepreneur, Mercy Aigbe Hajiah Amminah is best known for her Yoruba indigenous movies. She kicked off her acting career by starring in some soap operas, including the popular TV drama series ‘Papa Ajasco’ before joining the Nollywood industry fully in 2006.
A native of Edo State, she holds a degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos, Akoka. Known for her unique style and dressing, she won the 2016 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards. The entrepreneur has featured in movies including, Atunida Leyi, Igberaga, Ihamo, Ìpèsè, Irófunfun, Mafisere, Ojuife, Omoge Osas, Ile Oko Mii, Second Acts, Lagos Real Fake Life, Swallow, Crazy Grannies and Obsessions. In this interview with IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA, she talks about her new project, Ada Omo Daddy, her passion acting and sundry issues in the Nigerian movie industry.

You have made your mark both in the Yoruba and English genres of Nollywood; which do you consider your comfort zone?
I started out with English, then I crossed over to Yoruba. I made my name in the Yoruba movie industry. I would always say that Yoruba is stronger for me, because the industry contributed greatly to who I am today. That said, I would say there is no division in Nollywood. It is one Nollywood; it is simply the medium that is different. Yoruba, English, Hausa or Igbo – they are all homegrown Nigerian movies. So, I am a part of Nollywood.
You have a career that has seen many years of success. Could you share some of the key factors that have helped you to continue to strive towards achieving your goals?
Being authentic to my brand is a key factor. Consistency, hard work and evolving with the times have been highly crucial. It might sound cliché, but I pray and God has been awesome.

What new project are you working on? What should your fans expect from you soon?
I am so excited about my upcoming project titled ‘Ada Omo Daddy.’ It is my first major cinema project. I am scared because it is a new terrain for me. I know I have loyal fans and supporters, but when you want to try something new, there is the tendency to experience some level of fear. But because I believe in what I am bringing on the table, I am excited about it, and I cannot wait for everyone to see this project. It is going to be really awesome, and it’s going to be in the cinemas during the Christmas period. I am really thrilled about it. It is a movie people really need to look forward to. It is a fusion of Nigerian cultural heritage. It is a movie that attempts to unify our cultures, regardless of our differences. It is a beautiful family-oriented drama that will have a lot of comedy as well as some valuable lessons.

What key changes do you hope to see in the movie industry and how are you contributing your quota to its growth?
First of all, I would like to applaud the Nigerian movie industry. We are doing amazingly well. We haven’t gotten to where I think we should be but we are not where we were. In terms of technicality and the uniqueness of our stories, we have improved massively.We’ve always had amazing stories and great talents. I’ve always said that Nigerians are blessed and talented people. I’m excited that we are having a lot of platforms come on board in recent times. As a filmmaker, it boosts your chances of having a great return on your investment.
There are multiple challenges facing producers including the limited platforms through which movies can be distributed, piracy and so on.The cinema culture has really been revived and it has become a hugely positive platform to generate revenue as an investor. We also have Netflix and Amazon. We are hoping similar platforms will emerge soon. This will encourage more investors to come to the film industry, and it will provide more revenue for the entire value chain; actors and producers alike. We are growing. I am proud that I’m a witness to it.

As an entrepreneur, share some tips that have helped you run your business successfully?
In recent times, everything happens on social media. I make a lot of money from social media. The bulk of my sales come from social media. Your social media page should be your office. Don’t go about using your page to troll people. It should be your office. How you want people to perceive you should be well spelt out on your social media page. Use your page to make money. Make your business your priority. Blow your trumpet by yourself.

As a fashion icon, what does fashion mean to you?
Aside from acting, my second passion is fashion. I love to look good; I love to be paid compliments for my looks. I don’t know if it is vain but it is what I like. Fashion to me is you using your personality and creating an outward perception through your looks. It is all about your style. It is based on how much you are able to take care of yourself and put your outfit together. Fashion is also defined sometimes by trends. What is on board? What style is in vogue? Style is all about personalising fashion.

What is your most valuable fashion accessory?
I have a lot of valuable fashion items, but I think it would be a diamond ring I got as a gift from my husband.

As an award-winning actress and producer, how are you able to juggle responsibilities and still be at your best?
It’s not easy because aside from acting, I am also into business. I run a boutique; I am into fashion; I am a wife and I am a mother. It is a lot of hard work but I have a very good support system, in person of my husband, my family. My members of staff are also very loyal. It makes my work really easy.

What has the entertainment industry taught you?
My biggest lesson would be humility. Regardless of the heights that you attain, you should always remain humble. It goes a long way. I still see myself as just me, Mercy; because I believe that what I have attained is simply by the grace of God. When you meet people, who are up and coming, do not think that you are a demigod because it is not of your own doing. It is simply grace that has placed you wherever you are.
Also, it is good to have a good interpersonal relationship with people, at all levels. These are some of the biggest lessons that I have learnt in this industry. Whenever I go to set and see people who are acting for the first time, I always try to encourage them. It pays to be humble, regardless of who you are or whatever status that you feel you have attained.

What is your life mantra?
Stay true to yourself. Authenticity is highly important.