Why there’s BBL spike in Nollywood – Bimbo Akintola

Veteran Nollywood actress, Bimbo Akintola, has expressed concern over the increasing trend of cosmetic surgery among Nigerian actresses, lamenting that the drive for fame and glamour has overshadowed true passion and talent in the film industry.

During a conversation with fellow actress Ayo Adesanya, the 52-year-old thespian reflected on how the Nigerian movie scene has evolved over the years—arguing that what once used to be an art driven by passion has now become a display of vanity and superficiality.

“These days, passion has fizzled out in the industry. Back then, we weren’t earning much, but the hunger and passion drove us. It wasn’t about glamour. Now, everything is about glitz and appearances. While it’s nice to see growth and sophistication, our work should still be rooted in reality. Acting reflects life, and we can’t lose that connection,” she said.  The award-winning actress, known for her powerful performances in films such as To Kill a Monkey, noted that many new entrants into Nollywood are not motivated by love for the craft but by the quest for fame and social media relevance.

“Today, a lot of people are in the industry because they want to be popular. Act in one or two movies, and they become celebrities. Some actresses now complain about makeup, costumes, and appearances—forgetting that the essence of acting is storytelling, not fashion. That’s why we are seeing a spike in cosmetic surgeries and BBLs (Brazilian Butt Lift). It’s no longer about content but looks. No matter what you do, cosmetic surgery, BBL, or anything else, you will still age. We should focus less on the exterior and more on developing our craft. At the end of the day, looks won’t sustain a legacy,” she stated.

Reflecting on her journey into acting, Akintola shared that her decision to study Theatre Arts at the University of Ibadan was met with strong opposition from her father, who at the time viewed the profession as unserious and socially disreputable.

“My father couldn’t understand why I chose Theatre Arts. Back then, actors were seen as careless people, even labelled as prostitutes. But for many of us, it was about living for the art. When I finally gained admission and did my audition in front of the lecturers, that was my defining moment, I knew I was born to do this.”