Life Abroad Taught Me Humility, Discipline, Says Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde

Renowned Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, widely known as Omo Sexy, has revealed that relocating overseas reshaped her outlook on life and grounded her in unexpected ways.

Speaking in a recent interview, the film star explained that although she had long considered moving abroad, the COVID-19 pandemic made her reassess her priorities and ultimately influenced her decision to relocate to the United States. She noted that frequent visits to the U.S. never prepared her for the realities of actually living there.

According to her, settling abroad came with experiences that challenged her and helped her grow. She said moving away from Nigeria—where she achieved fame early—created room for self-discipline, orderliness, and personal development. “The country’s situation wasn’t the main factor,” she said. “I had several opportunities to relocate earlier but waited for the right moment. COVID-19 changed my mindset and reminded me that life is brief. Visiting the U.S. is completely different from living there. Taking that step was frightening, but it was something I needed to do.”

Omotola added that adapting to life in another country taught her important lessons. “Living abroad humbled me. In Nigeria, fame came very early for me, but relocating helped me learn discipline, organisation, and being truly present. Even simple tasks like driving myself or going for auditions reminded me that nothing in life is automatic.”

Her reflections highlight how the transition from stardom in Nigeria to a more structured environment in the U.S. has reshaped her both personally and professionally.