‘From these cameo roles, I transitioned to working behind the scenes as a production assistant, learning the ropes from some of the most prolific producers and directors of the time’ -Eshiet
I embarked on my professional journey in the entertainment industry in the year 2000, at a remarkably young age, while still residing with my mother in Surulere, Lagos. My very first earnings amounted to a modest one thousand naira (N1000), which I received for a brief appearance, often referred to as a “waka-pass” in Nigeria. Back then, landing even a minor role in Nollywood required a significant level of talent. In those days, simply participating in a “waka-pass” was a celebrated achievement; your street, school, friends, and entire neighborhood would shower you with admiration for such a feat.
From these cameo roles, I transitioned to working behind the scenes as a production assistant, learning the ropes from some of the most prolific producers and directors of the time. My hard work paid off as I eventually advanced to the role of production manager, all under the mentorship of my brother, Stanley Williams Inyang. Together, we worked on numerous remarkable films, both in English and Ibibio. Stanley, a masterful writer, imparted invaluable lessons in movie production, helping to shape my aspirations of becoming a producer.
Back then, producing a film was no easy task. You needed connections—someone who could introduce you to a marketer in Idumota—and, most importantly, you needed an original script. Unlike today, where recycled stories are more common, originality was the key to success.
Stanley provided me with one of his scripts, and armed with faith and determination, I ventured to Idumota. My first stop was at a shop where, by sheer luck, I encountered Mr. Emeka Aduah, a marketer. He took the script and skimmed through the synopsis, eventually saying, “I think I like your storyline.” That moment marked the beginning of my journey as a movie producer, making me one of the youngest individuals from Akwa Ibom to produce a Nollywood film. At that time, Akwa Ibom boasted a few renowned actors such as Big Brother Keppy Ekpenyong Bassey, Liz Benson, Regina Askia, Obot Etuk, Susan Patrick, Charles Ukpong, and Jenkins Ekpo. However, we had a limited number of producers, with only Imoh Ime Ekpenyong, Emem Isong, and myself making a mark in the mainstream industry.
After establishing myself in movie production, I expanded into show promotion, launching the Akwa-Cross Nite in collaboration with Moses Armstrong in Lagos. This event became a platform for promoting our indigenous artists in Lagos, bringing them to the city to showcase their talent. Akwa-Cross Nite served as a unifying event, drawing people from both Akwa Ibom and Cross River states to gather every last Friday of the month at Calabar Community Hall, Surulere Lagos. There, they enjoyed performances by Sirwilker Jackson , Solomon, Elewo Africa, Mista Xto , Pasto Goody Goody, the late Lucky Ben, the late Maxwell Udoh, Uwem Edi Imoh, and many others.
From show promotion to various other ventures, I remain deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, which has always been my first love.
Lagos, brace yourself—big things are on the horizon!