Omotola Jalade

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde MFR is a Nigerian actress, singer, and philanthropist. Since her Nollywood debut in 1995, she has appeared in over 300 films, selling millions of video copies. She is often cited as one of the most influential and successful figures in the history of Nigerian cinema. Early Life and Education Born Omotola Jalade in Lagos, Nigeria, on February 7, 1978, she is of Ondo descent. She grew up with her parents and two younger brothers, Tayo and Bolaji Jalade. Her original aspiration was to work in management. She attended Chrisland School Opebi (1981–1987), Command Secondary School, Kaduna (1987–1993), and later, the Federal Government College, Ogbomoso. While awaiting admission into a university, she briefly went into modeling. She eventually studied Estate Management at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos. Career Progression Omotola's acting career began in 1995 when she was introduced to a movie set by a friend. Her first major role was in the film Venom of Justice (1995). Her breakthrough came with the critically acclaimed film Mortal Inheritance (1996), where she played a sickle-cell patient who fights for her life. This role earned her the "Best Actress in an English Speaking Film" and "Best Actress Overall" awards at the 1997 THEMA Movie Awards. Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Omotola starred in numerous successful movies, establishing herself as a leading actress in Nollywood. In 2004, she launched a music career, releasing her debut album, GBA. She also starred in the popular reality television series Omotola: The Real Me, which premiered on Africa Magic in 2013, making her the first Nigerian celebrity to have her own reality show. Major Achievements and Notable Works Omotola Jalade Ekeinde’s filmography includes major roles in films such as When Love Dies, Blood Sisters, and Ije: The Journey, which became the highest-grossing Nigerian film at the time of its release. In 2013, she was honored by Time magazine as one of the "100 Most Influential People in the World," alongside prominent figures like Michelle Obama and Beyoncé. She was also recognized by the Nigerian government with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) honor for her contributions to Nigerian cinema in 2014. Her extensive influence earned her a spot on the list of top 100 most influential Africans compiled by New African magazine in 2013. Current Status Omotola Jalade Ekeinde remains an active figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry and has shifted her focus toward international projects and philanthropy. She is also a passionate activist for human rights, leveraging her influence to advocate for organizations such as Amnesty International. She continues to be one of the most followed Nigerian celebrities on social media and frequently engages in speaking engagements and entrepreneurial endeavors.