By Rita Okoye
Award-winning Nollywood actress Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman has etched her name in the history books of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards after becoming the first actress to clinch both the Best Lead Actress and Best Supporting Actress awards in the same night.
The celebrated actress, who continues to enjoy a remarkable run in the Nigerian film industry, opened up in a recent interview with BBC Igbo about her groundbreaking achievement and life as the wife of fellow Nollywood actor, Ibrahim Suleiman.
Speaking on the secret behind their successful marriage, Linda described their union as one built on mutual understanding and support, largely because they both belong to the same profession.
According to her, being actors helps them understand the demands and realities of the entertainment industry, adding that they openly discuss their movie scripts and career decisions together.
“The interesting thing about our marriage is that we are both in the same industry, so we understand the dynamics. We know acting is just a job and nothing can come between us, not even a movie,” she said.
At a time when celebrity marriages continue to face intense public scrutiny and frequent breakups, the actress advised couples to choose supportive partners who genuinely desire each other’s growth and happiness.
“To get the best out of marriage, you need to go for a partner that supports you and is by your side through thick and thin—someone who always wants to lift you, you know? Because a happy wife is a happy home, if your wife is happy, she will bless you. My husband learnt that a long time ago from his late, amazing mum,” she stated.
Reflecting on her journey into acting, Linda revealed that she stumbled into the industry unexpectedly after a friend informed her about an audition for the popular Africa Magic television series, Tinsel.
She admitted she initially had little interest in acting until she discovered the project offered payment in dollars.
“That was what caught my attention,” she recalled humorously, adding that she eventually got the role about a year later and has remained in the industry for nearly two decades.
Her latest AMVCA triumph came through her performances in The Herd and The Serpent’s Gift, performances she described as deeply demanding and emotionally invested.
“I gave both roles my all, so I wasn’t surprised about the nominations,” she said.
Linda said she hopes to take on villainous characters similar to the iconic roles often portrayed by veteran Nollywood actress Patience Ozokwor.
“I have played the good girl for too long. I am tired. I want to play the wicked woman role now,” she added with a laugh.
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