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‘I’ll be the First Nigerian actress to feature in Hollywood’ – Nkechi Emmanuel AKA Nurse Titi

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Nollywood actress, Nkechi Emmanuel A. K. A Nurse Titi who rose into prominence after her much talked about role in Movie series, Clinic Matters is no doubt one who is talented and passionate about her work as an actress.
     Just like every other successful person in life, she has been through some tough times too but through her strong will, she was able to scale through.
   In an interview with Saharaweekly, she revealed how she started her career, the challenges and how she was able to overcome.
   Excerpts below:

Q – How would you describe stardom and to what extent would you say clinic matters has helped you?

A- clinic matters has really helped me in every area of my life; career wise, it has boasted my career, it has boosted my career, it has open doors for me in nollywood,it has given me opportunities to work with better people in the industry and through that channel, they’ve been able to believe in me and in what I can deliver and give me the opportunity to do other jobs. Clinic matters was the last audition I attended, after that, I’ve just been getting my roles. I can’t even remember the last time I went for a table casting, all I do is receive call to pick a script and see if I like the story, I go for it so clinic matters is a great opportunity and a great channel for me.

Talking about my life, it has given me the opportunity to meet with other people everywhere I go, everyone likes me. my family have been able to come closer, not like we weren’t close before but the bond is now there, they feel happy and love has increased so clinic matters has been a plus in my life.

Q – I read a lot about you and I could remember then when you said you attend more than three auditions in a day in different locations, would we be right to say clinic matters is a move that shot you to limelight?

A – yes, it is. Like I said earlier, before clinic matters, I’ve been everywhere in lagos, I’ve been jumping from one place to another without even knowing if I’ll be chosen for the role or not. When I was doing clinic matters season 1, used to go to paul’s office casually and he will just call me to come get my script for the next season and I’ll just walk in and go. After season 2, I couldn’t pass his office peacefully anymore, anytime I get to his office, I will just sit in the car for like 10 – 15 minutes to gather up courage because he has people selling something around his office.most times, I met my other colleagues there and it’s always like a movie itself. It’s just been God, I’ve stopped doing what I used to do, that’s when I realized clinic matters has shot me to limelight.

Q – I could remember before then, people know you as sexy but now, it seems “Nurse Titi” has rub-off that nick from you, what’s your take on that?

A – I would say people usually call me ENKAY SEXY. Yes even till date but people who are closer to me still call me sexy, even till tomorrow, people will still call me sexy but most people who would prefer to call me nurse Titi call me that and some people even tag me as “sexy nurse Titi”. Even my sister calls me sexy at home.

Q – At what point did you dad actually accept you as actress and not the lawyer he wanted you to be?

A – it was when He started watching clinic matters on TV. Clinic matters was first aired on national TV and not on CD and every time I’m not in the house I maybe I’ve gone out for shooting, when I get back, I’m always like my dad is gonna scream, but when come in, he will be smiling and I started getting the knowledge that he’s been watching some episodes on TV. Gradually, he started accepting it cos of the role I’m playing. The role gave him more reason to accept it because I didn’t go on TV and start playing a romance scene, the character is cool, educative, in formative and he even got to learn some things from my mouth on TV so I think those are the things that made him relax.

Q – All that time when he was on your neck, was there a time you felt like giving up?

R – There was no time like that. There was no space because the thing just happened suddenly. There was a church programme which we all attended then, they brought actors to our church and that same day, I told my mum that I want to act and on Monday, I saw an advert on TV for those interested in acting and on Monday evening, I told my mum and requested for some money to go for audition, that same night, I prayed, gathered courage and told my dad. The whole thing happened in the course of the week, I went to national theatre on Thursday of the week and I started attending audition so there was no time for him to pressurize me and not after that,I got my first major role where I played the role of a nurse titled ‘ When you are mine’ and the producer of the movie is a fast person so in a week, the movie came out and it went viral so the producer of clinic matters saw my performance and the next week, he invited me for an audition. Immediately we finished audition, we started shooting and it went on air so in a month, everything happened so there was no space for him to really press me down.

Q – What would you describe as the secret of your success?

R –I would say its God, perseverance, focus and humility. I was opportuned to meet ‘Klint D Drunk; on a movie set and I watched him and was pleased. He was down to earth, playing with everybody, you will not even know he was the one. We became friends and he picked me as a sister, always advising me to always drop my shoulder and be humble, coupled with the fact that I was focused, determined, prayerful, and with my humility, everything just worked together and that has been what pushed me to success till date.

Q – What were the challenges you faced and how were you able to overcome them?

Q – I went through a lot of challenges; going for audition very early in the morning and seeing that you are number 71 on the list and looking around, you begin to wonder where the remaining 70 are. It was bad that some people would come very early, write their names and go back home to shower. I’ll stay under the sun, no food, no water, till they call you, the competition will be very high because you are not the only best actress and after you are done, they will promise to get back, some will, some will not, so many disappointments. Some will call you and give you role and promise to pay when you done but they eventually end up giving you stories, they will leave you empty handed. So many debt outside there but you can’t just start pursuing them, you just have to focus on what you want so the challenges have been so bad but I thank God I’ve overcome and outgrown some.

Q – Everybody has their source of Inspiration, anytime you are acting, what inspires you?

R – There was a job I was doing, I was acting and the director just stopped suddenly and asked me to come and said ‘ let me tell you something today and have it at the back your mind, job you are doing, always do it like it’s your last Job on earth’’ and after that word, I did the scene again and he was pleased. That got me going, you know, everytime I remember it, it just rings a bell to me and whenever I remember that, I act like it’s going to be my last. Another thing that inspires me is my Mother. She has always been supportive and likes to see every little thing I do. Anytime I act, she’s always glad to see it. She’s always been there to support my career. Whenever I’m driving out of the house, she comes to the veranda and start looking at me like I’m not going to return and she’s just somebody I don’t want to disappoint so anytime I remember her, I want to do more and she’s a woman who has always been there for her kids. She’s strong, I want to be stronger than she is, she has always been inspiring me.

In acting, I’ve always loved Angelina Jolie, she’s a strong woman. When she acts, she acts like there is no tomorrow so when I remember her, it give me motivation, even if nobody has ever broken that bond in Nigeria from Nollywood, I’ll do it.

I’ve made inquires about how it happens over there and I’ve seen how they do it. They have white skin Hollywood and black skin Hollywood. Going through the black skin Hollywood isn’t that easy not to talk of white skin Hollywood, it’s a No No and I’m like this barrier, I’ll break it. All I pray for is the strength; opportunity and I know it will come soon because I’m on that channel now.

Q – Why do you prefer acting in movies shot in Warri?

R – One, Warri people are fun to be with, two, the environment is conducive enough. I just like Warri, the way they talk alone can drag you to joy, there’s this their broken way of talking, their acting, when you see a small Warri boy, you won’t even know he’s small. Little things gives me Joy and I love to be wherever I find joy. My first film there was ‘Free Langua’ Where I had to learn how to speak their Langua, and act with it so it was fun.

 

Q- What’s your plan about shooting your own movie?

R – I don’t know if I would produce a movie of mine, if God says Yes. I’ll do it but for now, even if I want to do that, I wouldn’t want to venture into it ‘cos I see one or two people do it. I’ll want to go and study because it’s a course on it’s own, even if it’s for three months, I’ll have to study the basics so I don’t make mistakes in the end or regret. I know a whole lot of people who are now producing but I’ll have to study it first so I’ll go into it as a professional. Now, I’ve a lot on my desk as an actress so I’ll have to clear my desk first, only God knows maybe in the next five years.

Q – Who are those you admire in the industry?

 

R – I admire a lot of people, a lot inspires me, lot of role model I can’t start listing but I like Genevieve, Omotola Jolade.

In fact, when I was coming up, she was one of those that took me to her office and made me understand that I should study first cos I was in school then and that I should come back to acting later so I went back to study though I was still acting but when it comes to exam time, I put acting aside. I don’t know how the devil works, when it’s exam period, that’s when I get the best job.

Q – What can you say your smile has open doors for?

R – My smile, it has opened doors ooo…most times when I go to a place and it’s becoming difficult, I’ll be lie let me just see the Manager. Getting in there, i’ll smile to the person first because it says another different thing, it creates a better audience so when I smile to the person, no matter the sex, he or she will ask me to have my sit and from there, the conversation begins. Some other people will just call me to do a video of me smiling and many more, it’s a way of helping me look younger and open doors, it’s now part of me.

Q – Can you take us through your beauty routine?

R – When I wake up in morning, I do exercise, have my shower and use my cosmetics. I make sure I don’t sleep with my make-up on no matter how tired I am and I make sure I brush my teeth before I sleep. I also mind what I take into my body, not just because I don’t want to add up weight but I need to keep up my skin.

Q – Some people believe men are more emotional than women, what’s your take on this?

R – I’m a very emotional person but to compare between men and women, you guys are strong (laughs). Hardly will you see a man that will start crying over job loss, heart-break, but you can see a girl crying because she’s broke, you will still see a broke guy playing around with his friends.

Q – In your lonely moment, what do you do?

R – I just stuck in my headphone and listen to music then relax. The lyrics help me get over any situation and the next day, I’m good to go and sometimes, I could be like ‘ this life, I cannot kill myself’. I just call my friends or colleagues and party with them. I just let God take control.

Q – When was the last time you cried?

R – that was on a Movie set.

Q – In the midst of your busy schedule, how do you unwind?

R – I just find time, either I just want to be alone and listen to music or I go out to party.

Q – To what extent would you say fame rob-off your relationship?

R – It hasn’t

Q – How do you deal with crazy fans?

R – I’m one person that likes to give audience to my fans but we don’t get close. I’ve this fan that sent me a mess mess ago but I was busy doing something at the moment so I didn’t reply. Suddenly, I just saw his message, abusing me, insulting me, I just didn’t say a word. I understand how he felt but he didn’t understand I was just waiting for the perfect time. There’s another that sends me airtime every weekend. I accepted the first one so it doesn’t look like I’m rejecting but he kept sending it and it started looking like a weekend gift so I called his attention and he was like he’s not requesting for anything, that he just feels like giving me. I was surprised so I have so many of them. My male crazy fans are much but I thank God I handle them with wisdom. Some are beginning to understand that I’m trying ‘cos I got a lengthy message from one of them appreciating the fact that I’ve time to reply my fans, there are people who don’t reply at all

Q – What are you working on presently?

R – There’s something I’m working on presently but I don’t want to let it out now. I don’t want to say anything about it now. The next one is i’m working on a new TV series.

 

Business

FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan

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FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan

For millions of Nigerians, homeownership has long felt like an ambition deferred. Squeezed by rising property prices, persistent double-digit inflation and high commercial lending rates, the dream of owning a home has remained just that – a dream.

But that narrative is quietly changing. Thanks to FirstBank.

The N1 Trillion Intervention Reshaping Access

In partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), FirstBank has unveiled a mortgage opportunity that could redefine access to housing finance in Nigeria.

Backed by the Federal Government’s N1trillion mortgage fund, the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with affordable, long-term credit to own their homes.

9.75% Interest Rate in a 30% Lending Environment

MREIF is priced at 9.75% per annum, dramatically lower than prevailing commercial loan rates. Eligible Nigerians can access up to N100 million and repay within 20 years. This translates into significantly more manageable monthly repayments and greater long-term financial stability.

Built for Salary Earners, Entrepreneurs and the Diaspora

The MREIF mortgage facility has been structured to be inclusive. It is available to salary account holders, business owners and diaspora customers. Whether you are a young professional aiming to exit the rent cycle, an entrepreneur building generational stability, or you’re a Nigerian abroad looking to secure assets locally, the product opens a pathway that has historically been out of reach for many.

 

Taking the First Step

For those who have been waiting for the right time, this is definitely it. The question is no longer whether homeownership is possible. The real question is: will you act before the window narrows?

Visit https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ and in no time you could be the latest homeowner in town.

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Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako

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Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako

 

Marking another milestone in its expansion drive, Alpha Morgan Bank has opened a new branch in Utako, Abuja, reinforcing its strategy of building closer institutional ties within key business communities and bringing its financial expertise closer to individuals, and enterprises driving the city’s growth.

 

 

The new branch, located at Plot 1121 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Utako, Abuja is strategically positioned to serve individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients within Utako and surrounding districts.

 

 

The expansion follows the Bank’s recently concluded Economic Review Webinar held in February 2026, as the bank continues to position as a thought-leader in the financial services industry.

 

 

Speaking on the opening, Ade Buraimo, Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Bank, said the move underscores the Bank’s commitment to accessibility and service excellence.

 

 

“Proximity matters in banking. As communities grow and commercial activity expands, financial institutions also evolve to meet customers where they are. The Utako Branch allows us to deliver our services to people in that community efficiently while maintaining the high standards our customers expect,”

 

 

The Utako location will provide a full suite of retail and corporate banking services, including account opening, deposits, transfers, business banking solutions, and financial advisory support.

 

 

Customers and members of the public are invited to visit the new Utako Branch to experience the Bank’s approach to satisfying banking.

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Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence

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Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG 

“Nigeria insulated from international fuel shocks as Dangote Petroleum commits to uninterrupted local delivery.”

 

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the domestic market, pledging to shield Nigerians from the ripple effects of ongoing global energy disruptions. The assurance, delivered in Lagos on 5 March 2026, comes as international refinery operations experience shutdowns or reduced output due to escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions, which have sent crude oil and petroleum product prices soaring worldwide.

 

“Our mandate remains clear: Nigeria’s local market takes precedence. In times of global supply shocks, we will continue to ensure that domestic availability of petrol, diesel, and kerosene is uninterrupted,” said Mr. Folorunsho Alakija, spokesperson for Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

 

The refinery’s declaration arrives amid mounting concerns over fuel scarcity, triggered by export restrictions imposed by major international producers, including China, and shipping delays that have further tightened global petroleum supply chains. Industry analysts have hailed the domestic focus as a critical buffer against volatility that could otherwise push Nigeria into deeper energy insecurity.

 

Domestic Shield Against Global Disruption

Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility, has leveraged its multi-million-barrel refining capacity to mitigate Nigeria’s historical dependence on imported petroleum products. The company emphasised that prioritising local supply provides a strategic advantage in insulating the nation from international market shocks.

 

“Our refinery’s scale allows Nigeria to withstand short-term external disruptions. We have the infrastructure and capacity to meet local demand even when global supply chains falter,” explained Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, Operations Director at Dangote Refinery.

 

The proactive approach is particularly significant as several international refineries have either reduced throughput or temporarily halted operations, causing a global scarcity of refined products. Experts warn that without domestic cushioning, fuel prices in Nigeria could have surged sharply, exacerbating inflationary pressures in a fragile economy.

 

Managing Costs While Prioritising Supply

In response to rising procurement costs for crude oil amid the international crisis, Dangote Refinery introduced a modest ₦100 per litre increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), absorbing roughly 20 percent of the cost escalation to lessen the impact on consumers.

 

“We are balancing operational sustainability with affordability. While global prices have risen sharply, we have chosen to absorb a significant portion to protect Nigerian households and businesses,” noted Mr. Emmanuel Adeyemi, Chief Finance Officer.

 

This pricing strategy underscores the refinery’s dual focus: ensuring uninterrupted supply while cushioning the public from abrupt spikes that could destabilize economic activity. Industry observers have lauded the approach as pragmatic, considering the volatility in international oil markets.

 

Strategic Distribution Initiatives

Beyond refining, Dangote Petroleum has initiated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks to enhance nationwide distribution efficiency. The initiative seeks to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions while ensuring a more reliable delivery network to petrol stations across urban and rural areas.

 

“Logistics is a critical part of the energy supply chain. By deploying CNG-powered trucks, we reduce dependency on expensive diesel, lower delivery costs, and improve supply reliability across the country,” explained Ms. Funke Adedoyin, Head of Logistics Operations.

 

This strategic move reflects a broader commitment to modernising Nigeria’s petroleum distribution infrastructure, reducing bottlenecks that have historically contributed to scarcity at retail outlets.

 

Implications for National Energy Security

Nigeria has historically struggled with fuel imports to meet domestic demand, making the country vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Dangote Refinery’s prioritisation of local supply mitigates this vulnerability by leveraging home-grown refining capacity, which allows for timely access to petroleum products and less reliance on foreign shipments.

 

“With Dangote Refinery leading local prioritisation, Nigeria is less exposed to global fuel shocks. The country is moving towards self-reliance in petroleum product supply,” commented Dr. Halima Suleiman, energy sector analyst.

 

Experts note that sustained operations at the refinery not only enhance energy security but also preserve foreign exchange, reduce import bills, and stabilise domestic market prices.

 

Corporate Social Responsibility and Market Stability

The refinery’s commitment is part of a broader corporate responsibility framework. Dangote Petroleum continues to engage with government agencies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that domestic supply is coordinated with Nigeria’s Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to prevent panic buying and market distortions.

 

“We are in constant consultation with the government to ensure that our supply strategies align with national economic priorities,” said Mr. Alakija.

 

Such collaboration helps avert artificial shortages, stabilises pump prices, and maintains confidence in the domestic fuel market. Analysts argue that this approach exemplifies how private sector capabilities can complement governmental policies to enhance national resilience.

 

Navigating Global Uncertainties

The refinery operates in a complex global environment, where geopolitical crises, shipping constraints, and crude oil volatility can trigger disruptions. Dangote Petroleum’s domestic-first approach positions Nigeria to weather such crises more effectively.

 

“Global uncertainties are unavoidable, but our infrastructure and strategy ensure that Nigerians remain insulated from immediate shocks,” said Mr. Okonkwo.

 

This emphasis on resilience aligns with global best practices, where national refining capacity is leveraged to protect local markets from international supply disruptions.

 

Stakeholder Reactions

The government, civil society, and industry stakeholders have welcomed Dangote Petroleum’s strategy. Officials from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources noted that prioritising local supply aligns with Nigeria’s energy security policies and reduces the burden of foreign exchange expenditures on crude imports.

 

“Dangote Refinery is demonstrating leadership. Its domestic prioritisation ensures that the Nigerian economy remains insulated during turbulent global markets,” said Dr. Tunji Olumide, Special Adviser on Energy.

 

Consumers have also expressed cautious optimism. Retail operators and commuters reported steadier fuel availability in Lagos and other cities, though concerns remain about sustained pricing and distribution efficiency.

 

The Road Ahead

While Dangote Refinery’s strategy provides immediate relief, experts argue that long-term stability requires further investments in alternative energy, diversified refining infrastructure, and strategic reserves. This ensures that Nigeria can withstand global shocks without relying excessively on imports or temporary supply adjustments.

 

“Short-term measures like prioritising local supply are critical, but long-term energy security demands diversification, renewables adoption, and consistent policy implementation,” said Dr. Suleiman.

 

The refinery is exploring additional initiatives, including expanding storage capacity, upgrading pipeline networks, and adopting technology-driven monitoring systems to ensure supply continuity across the country.

 

Final Take

By prioritising domestic fuel supply amid global market turbulence, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has demonstrated its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s energy sector. Through strategic logistics, modest pricing adjustments, and engagement with government regulators, the refinery is insulating the nation from international shocks while maintaining operational sustainability.

 

“Our responsibility extends beyond profitability; it’s about ensuring Nigerians have reliable access to essential fuel. We take that mandate seriously,” concluded Mr. Adeyemi.

 

The refinery’s actions offer a blueprint for how large-scale domestic capacity can protect national economies in times of global energy instability, underscoring the critical intersection of private sector resilience, public policy, and national energy security.

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