How Cornel Udofia gave Jane Thomas Rogers Nollywood breakthrough

By Melony Aweh

RISING Nigerian actress Jane Thomas Rogers has credited Ambassador Cornel Udofia with playing a pivotal role that launched her acting career in Nollywood. In an exclusive interview, Rogers recounted how a chance meeting at the late Keffee Branama’s Kitchen opening led to a series of events that ultimately transformed her life.

While attending the event with her cousin and friend, Joyce, Rogers said she was captivated by Udofia’s grand entrance. An introduction facilitated by his personal assistant Swagger Prince proved to be a turning point, as Udofia subsequently invited them to several high-profile events, including one at White House, Ikeja, organized by City People magazine.

It was at this event, hosted and moderated by the eloquent Folake Daramola, that Rogers said her acting aspirations were ignited. Inspired by Daramola’s performance, she revealed her ambition to pursue an acting career – an ambition she had not previously given a thought.

Udofia, known for his mentorship of young talents, wasted no time in supporting her. He introduced Rogers to several journalists, encouraging them to spotlight her burgeoning career. Furthermore, he secured a free scholarship for her at Mr. Zeb Ejiro’s renowned Film and Broadcast academy (FABA), Ozoro, Delta State.

Actress Jane Thomas Rogers

Rogers’ time at the academy, coupled with the opportunities provided by her mentor Udofia and his connections to influential figures in Nollywood, would eventually shaped her acting journey, she revealed. This led to clinching roles in popular soap operas such as Tinsel and Battlefield.

While acknowledging that she’s still early in her career, Rogers expressed immense gratitude to both Udofia and Mr. Ejiro for giving her wings to soar. She highlighted Udofia’s commitment to nurturing young talents, despite his other commitments.

Rogers expressed pleasure in Udofia for being instrumental in lending a helping hand to many young talents to gain ground in the entertainment industry, noting that his contributions should be acknowledged and appreciated, adding, “My experience in the media space was gained from him. May I also use this opportunity to appreciate and encourage you to keep up the good work, praying that the Almighty God bless and reward you abundantly. And to Uncle Ejiro, thank you so much for the free scholarship and for going extra miles to impact lives and give back to the society. These legacies will speak for you two till eternity. Thank you, my amazing bosses.”

Rogers’ story is a testament to the power of mentorship and the importance of seizing unexpected but available opportunities. Her journey from a chance encounter at a kitchen opening to a rising star in the Nigerian entertainment industry serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring actors and a fitting tribute to the individuals who helped shape her career.

* Aweh is a journalist and writer