Africans are some of the world’s top entertainers, and it shows in the booming entertainment industry and vibrant pop culture. Behind every great story is a character, and behind every character is pure talent.

As the saying goes, "hidden talent get no respect," and that’s why Jimmie Akinsola, a standout in Nigeria’s entertainment scene, become a prominent figure.

Born Folajimi Oluwasegun James Akinsola, Jimmie has carved a dynamic path as a media personality. His journey began as a sports presenter to landing his first acting role in "When Love Happens Again," he’s become a powerhouse across different sectors.

pan african, entertainment — Jimmie Akinsola, Image: Supplied

Jimmie’s talent doesn’t stop at sports. He’s made a name for himself in Nollywood, with roles in films like Badboys and Bridesmaids (2021), Twin Flame (2023), and his recent appearance on the reality show Ebuka Turns Up Africa.

His career mirrors the words of philosopher Seneca, “Don’t limit yourself to just one skill. Explore everything, because all knowledge is connected.”

Jimmie's success across different fields proves he’s not just an entertainer but a true multi-talent.

With his magnetic personality, Jimmie has become a fan favourite both on and off the screen, making him one of the most beloved figures in Nigeria’s entertainment, sports, and fashion worlds.

In a GQ interview, we dive into Jimmie’s impressive journey, discussing his early love for entertainment, key moments in his career, bold moves into acting, and his undeniable influence in both sports and fashion.

GQ: Give us one word that best describes who you are and what you do?

JIMMIE: Entertainer!

GQ: Your journey in the entertainment industry is vast and diverse. What initially drew you to broadcasting and media, and was there a pivotal moment that made you decide this was the path for you?

JIMMIE: I would say since my first appearance on TV as a 7-year-old kid answering a vox-pop question on a football show, I always knew I was comfortable with the spotlight. 11 years later, I decided to follow my passion.

Later, I became a producer and presenter of the same show I had appeared on - “Godwin Dudu Orumen's The Best of Football and Lucozade Boost Sports Reel.” The show aired on the Nigerian Television Authority(NTA) Network and other TV stations nationwide.

I was quickly recognized by the NTA as the ‘Youngest Independent TV Producer (18 years old) in 2003 and from then on, there was no stopping me.

GQ: What were your childhood aspirations? Did you always see yourself in the entertainment industry, or were there other paths you considered?

JIMMIE: I have always felt like life in entertainment was written in the stars for me . I always found myself gravitating to all things entertainment; music, sports and even cinematics. It was an innate passion.

As a child growing up in Surulere, a home of Nollywood stars, I dreamt of being in the movies. My mum and I often watched the latest releases on VHS tapes and later video CDs. Like most African parents, she was focused on my education, pushing me to excel in school.

But as I got older and stood at 6 foot 2 in high school (Igbobi College), my focus began to shift. That's when basketball entered the picture, and I found myself dreaming of the NBA. It became a path I could have pursued.

GQ: Were there any specific individuals in the entertainment industry who inspired or guided you during your early years?

JIMMIE: In my early years, Will Smith and RMD were my inspirations and are still my acting heroes. I admired the way they carved out a niche for themselves in their respective careers.

Then fast forward to the year 2004, life in Lagos took its toll on me after my mum relocated to the UK. While learning to fend for myself, I found inspiration in the emergence of D'banj.

The uniqueness and vibrancy he brought to the music scene inspired me to keep believing in myself. I strive to be the best, share positivity and hope through my energy. Hence the creation of the persona – Jimmie The Entertainer!!!

GQ: You started your career on The Beat 99.9 FM. Can you tell us about that experience and how it shaped your approach to broadcasting?

JIMMIE: The Beat 99.9fm was the platform that propelled me into prominence not just in the sports world but in the entertainment industry.

I grew up listening to the BBC World Service, so I adopted the British style of presentation and this was well received by the listeners. I worked as head of sports for both Beat FM and its sister station, Classic FM 97.3.

It gave me exposure as I hosted a lot of high profile events such as Industry Nite, Lagos Countdown, The Beat Bar Crawl. These led to me becoming a brand ambassador for Hennessy from 2010 till date.

GQ: How did the transition from radio to television happen? Was it a conscious decision, or did opportunities simply present themselves?

JIMMIE: There was not much of a transition because I had been blessed to be on TV from a very young age. I was also on radio, hosting TV Game shows such as “Football Legends,” while making cameo appearances in music videos and starring in TV sitcoms.

It is safe to say I have always been comfortable in front of the camera. I have always been ready and when the opportunity presents itself, I take advantage.

GQ: Talk to us about your, "Sports Extra with Jimmie." What has been your most memorable experience?

JIMMIE: My most memorable experience as host of “Sports Xtra” has to be covering the Super Eagles of Nigeria during the FIFA World Cup held in South Africa.

The World Cup experience is second to none, but the fact that it was the first time the football World Cup was being held on African soil, made it even more memorable.

GQ: Can you share your experience of landing your first acting role? What was it like stepping into a new creative space?

JIMMIE: My first acting role came when the director of “When Love Happens”, Seyi Babatope, decided he wanted to make a sequel to the movie. He selected me as a person of interest with the Female Lead in “When Love Happens Again” which was shot in Maryland, USA.

pan african, entertainment — Jimmie Akinsola, Image: Supplied

The movie also featured Weruche Opia, Udoka Oyeka and Enyinna Nwigwe. It was exciting and a bit nerve wracking because I was acting alongside seasoned actors and actresses.

I always expect nothing short of excellence from myself, so I put a lot of pressure on myself in the beginning.

I have to admit, once I got into it, met my co-stars and found my rhythm, it was an amazing experience and we were able to tell a beautiful story.

GQ: You’ve taken on roles in films like “Badboys and Bridesmaids” and “Twin Flame”. How do you prepare for your acting roles, and what has been your most challenging role to date?

JIMMIE: Acting is fun. It allows me to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone. It’s another opportunity to connect with a broader audience and expand my depth and perception. In preparing for a role, I like to pour myself into the character.

I either tap into similarities I have with the character or use someone I know or I feel reminds me of that persona to draw relatability to the role. I would not say I have had any challenging roles, because most of the roles I take-on have huge similarities to my everyday life.

I recently had to play a role where my character ended up being killed, so I would say maybe that was an interesting twist for me to act out but I am looking forward to more challenging roles - like an action or thriller movie. Directors hit me up. I’m ready! Honestly I am just enjoying the journey and I

grateful for the opportunities I have been given to showcase my talents.

GQ: You’re currently starring in ‘Ebuka Turns Up Africa,’ a reality travel series, how does this project differ from your earlier work?

JIMMIE: Reality television is definitely a different ball game, as I have never had to put so much of my personal life and self out there for public consumption. It was an interesting, fun, crazy, therapeutic and exciting experience wrapped up in one.

GQ: Your interest in fashion is no secret but how did you develop that aspect of your life? What inspired the creation of your brand?

JIMMIE: I have always believed that you should always “Dress as you want to be addressed.” That is why I have always paid extra attention to what I wear particularly since I met my wife.

She has further piqued my fashion sense because she is a veteran stylist and image consultant. My brand is a reflection of my person; clean, stylish and luxurious.

GQ: How do you balance your acting career with your other ventures like hosting and your clothing line?

JIMMIE: Balance is key to successfully running different ventures. So it's important to make time to nurture and highlight those other aspects of my career.

I am fortunate to have a proficient team that handles the heavy lifting of the clothing line, which helps tremendously and allows me to focus on being a talent.

GQ: As multifaceted as you are, you are a wide receiver for the Lagos Athletic team in the Showtime Flag League. How important is sports in your life and what drew you to flag football specifically?

JIMMIE: Playing sports is an escape for me because when I’m playing, nothing else matters and I feel so free. I enjoy them all; soccer, basketball, football etc.

Flag Football is the latest addition to my sports addiction, which I picked up during COVID.

It's been a love affair between myself and the game. In fact, I loved it so much I created my own team - Lagos Athletic Knights.

GQ: Do you see any parallels between your involvement in sports and your work in entertainment? How do both fields complement each other in your life?

JIMMIE: Sports is entertainment and I believe they go hand in hand. It was a segue for me to be able to experience and be a part of other elements of the entertainment industry.

GQ: What does downtime look like for you? How do you unwind and stay grounded amidst your busy schedule?

JIMMIE: Believe it or not off duty Jimmie is rather chilled and calm. I enjoy playing and watching sports, video games, watching movies and catching up on some of my favorite shows and series.

Most importantly spending some quality time with my family; playing with my son and grooming him into an Arsenal fan *wink*. Truly that’s what keeps me grounded, just creating special moments with my family.

GQ: What would you tell the 10-year-old you and what is up next for Jimmie Akinsola?

JIMMIE: Keep your dreams alive, never stop believing. Your resilience, discipline and faith is your superpower. Never lose yourself, character is everything, so always stay true and God sticks with us through it all.

So keep Him close. What’s Next? Hmmmm…living out my purpose and continuing greatness! I refuse to set limits for myself , I’m just trying to be all I can be and make sure I use up all these gifts God has blessed me with, while touching lives positively.

Written by Jude Tackie