Ejiro Onojaife, popularly known as Firecracker, is steadily establishing herself as one of Nollywood’s emerging actors to watch.
Her entry into filmmaking began during her National Youth Service in Ibadan, an experience that exposed her to the possibilities within the industry. Although her professional acting career took shape years later, that early encounter helped clarify her creative direction.
“My journey in Nollywood is clearer now,” she said. “It hasn’t always been. Now I know I belong here, and meeting senior colleagues has been one of the highlights of my journey so far. Their guidance and mentorship have been invaluable.”
Five years into her career, Onojaife earned an Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards nomination for her performance in The Origin: Madam Koi-Koi, a milestone she describes as both affirming and humbling. Reflecting on the moment, she admitted she never imagined such recognition so early.
“The nomination is a reminder that I’m on the right path. Whenever I feel unsure, I go back to that post on my Instagram to remind myself that my dreams are valid and this is only the beginning.”
This December marks a significant moment in her career, with Onojaife appearing in two films released on the same day: Behind the Scenes, directed by Funke Akindele, and The Covenant by Vincent Okonkwo. In Behind the Scenes, she plays Annabel, a grounded family woman, while The Covenant sees her take on Havoc, a driven and ruthless character.
Despite the contrast between the roles, Onojaife says both challenged her in different ways. “These characters allowed me to show different sides of my range as an actor,” she said. Preparing for Havoc, in particular, required physical and emotional discipline. A fitness enthusiast, she leaned into regular training to embody the character’s strength and posture.
She is especially keen for audiences to focus on the characters rather than her public persona. “When people watch these films, I want them to see Annabel and Havoc, not Ejiro Onojaife. In one of the roles, my physical appearance is altered completely. I’m bald, and that transformation helped me stay grounded in the character.”
Away from set, Onojaife finds balance in solitude, music, and fitness, habits she says help her stay centred in a demanding industry. Looking ahead, she remains open to roles that push her further creatively. “Like my nickname, Firecracker, there’s so much more I want to offer. I’m excited about the stories I’ve told and the ones still ahead.”
With two high-profile releases closing the year, Onojaife continues to position herself as a promising force within Nollywood, guided by discipline, self-belief, and a clear sense of purpose.
Behind the Scenes is currently showing in cinemas, while The Covenant is available on Netflix and KAVA TV.