Nollywood actor and filmmaker Deyemi Okanlawon has argued that mediocrity offers better odds of success in Nigeria than professional excellence. Speaking on the Dear Ife podcast, Okanlawon painted a picture of a nation where incompetence flourishes while merit struggles.
He cautioned against being "too professional" in the country, suggesting it actually derails career advancement. "In a country where mediocrity reigns, you can't be too serious," Okanlawon said on the show.
According to him, those who embrace an unserious approach tend to thrive more visibly than their dedicated counterparts. "Those who act the most unserious succeed the most," he noted.
Okanlawon revealed he'd learned to suppress his own intellect to get ahead in Nigeria's entertainment industry. "I have realised that you have to tone your intellect down a lot to succeed here," the filmmaker told podcast listeners.
His comments reflect growing frustration among creatives about how Nigerian society often rewards mediocrity over talent and hard work. The actor's remarks have sparked conversation about whether excellence truly disadvantages people in the country's competitive sectors.
