I Started Acting Early,I Dropped Out of Secondary School to Pursue My Acting Career Says Veteran Nollywood Actor,Ibrahim Chatta

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

In a candid revelation, Nollywood actor and Filmmaker, Ibrahim Chatta, has opened up about his unconventional path to success, revealing that he made the bold decision to drop out of secondary school to chase his acting career in the entertainment industry, leading to a fulfilling and successful path.

OPEN TELEVISION Naija reports that in an interview with BBC Yoruba, Chatta, who recounted how he began his acting career in 1985, shared that he often skipped school as a youth to perform in theatre productions with his peers. 

This passion for acting ultimately led him to drop out of secondary school. 

Now in his 50s, Chatta disclosed that he has taken up online courses and programs to continue his education. 

However, as he didn't finish his secondary school, Chatta has pursued adult education courses related to acting. 

He has taught himself English through extensive reading, recalling how he used to read the paper wraps of puff-puff when he was young. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija recalls that Ibrahim Chatta gained fame for his role in the 2012 film titled ‘Aiyekooto’ and has appeared in several notable films, including ‘Atini O’go’ (2006), ‘Mafi Wonmi’ (2008), ‘Olo’ (2008), ‘Mafi Sere’ (2009), ‘Orere Laye’ (2009), ‘Ebere Adigun’ (2010), ‘Ifa Iwa’ (2013), ‘October 1’ (2014), ‘Olokiki Oru: The Midnight Sensation’ (2019), and ‘Omoyagba’ (2020) among others. 

Chatta stated that, “I started acting very early in life and knew it was my path as a child. Acting demanded a lot from me and prevented me from completing my education."

"My parents thought I was in school, but I would join my colleagues in what we called travel theatre, which has now evolved into filmmaking. That’s how some of our seniors began their journey from stage to screen,” he added.