Faith Itohan, an actress in Nollywood and a dedicated registered intensive care nurse in the US, embarked on a journey that led her away from the spotlight for over twenty years. However, her return to the industry has been nothing short of captivating, marked by the production of her yet to be released latest film, “UNKNOWN Pandemic.”
In an exclusive interview with Ranks Africa Magazine, Faith Itohan shared a stirring narrative about her acting break and what propelled her back into the realm of filmmaking after such a significant period.
A”I relocated to the United States, building a new life and expanding my family,” she recounted. “The sacrifices I made were for the sake of my family, but my unwavering passion for the industry remained intact. I always knew I’d return when the time was right. Leaving Nigeria didn’t diminish my love for filmmaking; it fueled my comeback to my first love, culminating in my latest creation, UNKNOWN Pandemic.”
Reflecting on the evolution within the film industry during her absence, Faith reminisced about the industry’s earlier days, highlighting the era of passionate collaborations without the aid of modern technology. “Back then, it was all about the passion that united us,” she mused. “The industry’s expansion has allowed for more exceptional films to be produced, yet the heart of Nollywood remains rooted in creativity.”
Transitioning back into the industry presented Faith with unique challenges. However, her unyielding passion and reliance on prayer helped her overcome obstacles, bolstering her resolve. She revealed, “The challenges were there, but I emerged victorious, strengthened by my unwavering spirit. The entire team working on UNKNOWN Pandemic shared this same tenacity, fueling our collective dedication.”
Her latest project, UNKNOWN Pandemic, delves into the phenomenon of narcissistic traits affecting one in five individuals, with 20% potentially becoming full-blown. “This film touches upon an unrecognized pandemic affecting lives worldwide,” Faith explained. “If it touches just one life at a time, the endeavor is worth it.” She praised the exceptional talents involved in the production, including writer David Akande, director Tunde Olaoye, and actors Jide Kene Achufusi and Kehinde Bankole.
Twenty years away from the industry brought significant personal growth for Faith, merging her experiences as an intensive care nurse and a mother into her storytelling. “Everyday family stories resonate deeply with me,” she affirmed. “My experiences have intensified my storytelling, emphasizing relatable narratives and a love for family-oriented tales.”
Her comeback harbors an intent to raise awareness through relatable stories at the family’s kitchen table. She expressed, “I aim to tell compelling stories that have a positive impact on people’s lives.”
Faith maintained a link to the industry through intermittent writing and published memoirs, driven by an unwavering passion. “David Akande, my writer, was my pillar of strength,” she confided.
Faith’s long years break taught her valuable lessons in humility, embracing mistakes, and appreciating life’s journey. “My upbringing in faith guides me; I prioritize authenticity and continuous self-improvement,” she reflected.
As she steps back into the limelight, Faith envisions an enduring legacy through impactful storytelling. Her return has been eagerly anticipated by fans, spurring her forward with their unwavering support.
Beyond UNKNOWN Pandemic, Faith invites fans to join her on Instagram, @officialfaithitohan, promising a journey filled with growth and engagement.
With UNKNOWN Pandemic marking her triumphant return, Faith Itohan beckons audiences to witness the stories that transcend screens and touch hearts.
#unknowpandemica
