During a 2014 interview with UNICEF, the accomplished veteran Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji spoke of the resilience and strength exhibited by Africans who, despite facing adversities and hardships on a daily basis, are able to maintain a positive outlook and remain content. In stark contrast, many individuals from more affluent backgrounds may still find themselves unhappy or unfulfilled, despite possessing greater material wealth and resources.
However, it is important to note that contentment does not equate to complacency, and Nnaji emphasized the need for Africans to strive for a better quality of life and to actively take steps towards progress and development. Recognizing the potential for Nigeria and other African nations to make a significant impact on the global stage, Nnaji called for a fundamental shift in the mindset of the people, toward one that values innovation, education, and the pursuit of excellence.
“Those people [Africans] who are in that situation and still smiling, they are the strongest. Because a lot of us probably with our wealth are still unhappy. We are not even as happy as they are because they are content. But then contentment does not mean they can’t have a better life.” – Nollywood veteran actress Genevieve Nnaji in a 2014 interview with UNICEF. When asked if Nigeria and Africa were doing everything within their power to put Africa in the world map. She responded that “the mindset of the people needs to change”.
Today, in 2023, the sentiments expressed by Nnaji in her 2014 interview continue to ring true. Despite Nigeria’s status as one of the largest economies in Africa, with abundant natural resources and a young, dynamic population, the country still faces numerous challenges including poverty, corruption, and insecurity. However, the words of Nnaji serve as a reminder that powerful change can be achieved through a collective shift in mindset, and a commitment to driving progress and development for all.
