Tega Obahor is quickly becoming a name to watch in Nollywood, Nigeria’s vibrant film industry. His story is one of passion, perseverance, and a strategic approach to balancing creative vision with business acumen. From his early days of school dramas to his current endeavors in filmmaking, Tega’s journey offers a compelling narrative of how passion can evolve into a professional career.
The Curtain Rises: Early Beginnings and Education
Tega’s love for the arts was evident from a young age. “I’ve always been a creative person, even from childhood,” he reminisces. His involvement in drama, music, and art during his primary and secondary school years laid the foundation for his future career. As drama coordinator and social prefect, Tega found himself captivated by the power of storytelling and performance.
The real turning point came during his time at Delta State University. Being part of a prominent drama crew allowed him to refine his skills in story creation, stage performance, costume design, and set design. “Being in a drama group that hosted major drama fiestas was exhilarating. It was then that I realized I could pursue this professionally,” he shares. This experience was instrumental in shaping his decision to take the leap into the world of filmmaking. Learn how a film is developed.
The Big Move: A Leap of Faith to Lagos
Post-university, Tega initially explored a career in fashion, using the income to support his film aspirations. However, his move to Lagos, the heart of Nigeria’s film industry, marked a significant shift. “I moved to Lagos after the ENDSARS protest, even though the project that triggered the move didn’t materialize. It was a leap of faith,” he explains. Despite the initial setbacks, Lagos provided him with the proximity to the industry and the opportunities he needed to grow.
To bolster his career, Tega attended the EbonyLife Creative Academy, where he received professional training in screen acting. This formal education, coupled with his growing network of young filmmakers, led to the creation of “A Momment’s Peace”, his first short film. This film was not only a personal achievement but also garnered recognition by being selected for the African International Film Festival.
Hustling and Grinding: Overcoming Challenges and Building Credibility
Building a career in Nollywood wasn’t without its challenges. Traveling from Benin to Lagos for auditions, often without callbacks, was disheartening. “People doubted my choices,” he recalls. The industry’s competitive nature required him to prove his talent repeatedly. Tega’s perseverance paid off as he took on multiple roles—actor, writer, director, and producer—each helping to establish his credibility and expand his skill set.
While Tega’s initial focus was on creative expression and making an impact, he has also come to understand the importance of the business side of filmmaking. “I’m still working towards the business side, but I understand that initial stages require significant investment of time and money without immediate returns,” he notes. His strategy involves collaborating with established brands, seeking sponsorships, and working with investors who recognize the commercial potential of his projects.
Crafting the Future: Vision and Strategy
Tega’s vision for his production brand is clear: to balance artistic excellence with commercial viability. “I believe people will buy what is good. My goal is to produce films that are both artistically and commercially successful,” he asserts. His meticulous process for selecting projects ensures that each one meets his high standards, from story quality to the strength of the creative team involved.
