Nollywood actress Ngozi Nwosu has revealed that she will no longer provide free services to her home state, Abia, after being neglected during a health crisis in 2012. The 61-year-old actress shared her story on the Nollywood on Radio podcast with Seun Oloketuyi.
Nwosu, who has been in the industry for over three decades, made a memorable debut in the 1992 film “Living in Bondage” and has since appeared in numerous films and music videos. However, her experience of being neglected by the Abia State Government during a kidney illness in 2012 has left a lasting impact on her.
“That was my lowest point,” she said. “I was completely abandoned by my state during my time of need. They didn’t even reach out to me to ask how I was faring.”
Nwosu’s experience has led her to make a pact that she will only accept payment for any future work with the Abia State Government. “There is nothing they can call me for that I would attend for free,” she emphasized. “They will pay through their nose for me to be there. I am from Arochukwu Local Government, Abia State.”
In contrast, Nwosu recalled how a fan in Lagos, who she referred to as her “favorite actress,” reached out to the Lagos State Government to get her the support she needed. “It was my fame from acting that ultimately helped me when I was in need,” she said. “The person who contacted the Lagos authorities did so because she was a fan. When she found out I was ill, she called on the Lagos authorities to save my life.”
In 2022, Nwosu opened up about the toll of constantly being misreported and speculating about her health, which led to depression. “There was rumour that I’d died, there was rumour I was in Germany while I was in my house,” she revealed. “Nothing pains like when a journalist decides to kill you and kill you with your own mouth. Now who is the horse, who is the mouth? Oh God!”
Nwosu’s journey in Nollywood has been marked by memorable roles and collaborations with artists such as Chidinma Ekile, Fair Prince, and Davido. Despite her success, her experience of being neglected by her state has left a lasting scar, prompting her to prioritize financial compensation for any future work with Abia State.
