Annie Idibia goes emotional as she reflects on her early career days

Nollywood actress Annie Macaulay Idibia is taking a walk down memory lane, recounting the early struggles of her acting career and how far she has come in the film industry.

In an Instagram post, the mother of two shared how she used to drive the long route through Surulere on her way to the University of Lagos just to check movie posters. Her hope? To see if any of her newly shot films had been released, and more importantly, if her face made it to the front of the posters.

“The dream then wasn’t just to get the roles,” Annie wrote. “But to pray that the marketers would see your face as sellable enough to make the front poster!”

Fast-forward to the present, and the tables have turned. The actress, now a household name, said she’s the one selecting which projects to work on. “Now na dem dey rush us o. Now, na we dey choose which kain film we put our energy, our face and even our name o,” she declared proudly.

Annie’s reflection comes amid a growing recognition of her influence both on and off screen. Last year, she was named one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Africa for her contribution to entertainment, fashion, and women’s empowerment. She called the honor a “loud” one and credited her success to divine grace.

Also in recent years, Annie has spoken openly about her journey — from sleeping in a single room with her three brothers to helping her mother in her food business. “I was known as the cook’s daughter,” she once shared during a Glamour Magazine feature.