From Tinsel to The Voice, Emmanuel Ozzi’s journey through Nigeria’s creative industry

From the theatre stage of the University of Ibadan to some of Africa’s biggest television productions, Emmanuel Nlemadim, popularly known as Emmanuel Ozzi, has spent more than two decades building a career around storytelling, production and talent development.

A University of Ibadan Theatre Arts graduate, Nlemadim has established himself as one of the quiet but influential professionals contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s creative industry.

A producer, actor, voice artist and acting coach, he has worked across theatre, television and film, contributing to productions that have reached audiences across Nigeria and Africa.

His impressive credits include The Voice Africa, The Voice Nigeria (2023), Tinsel (2010–2015), Riona (2020) and several Africa Magic productions.

Speaking during an interview at his office in Isheri-Berger, Lagos, Nlemadim reflected on his career journey, the transformation of Nollywood and his vision for the future of Nigeria’s creative industry.

Theatre remains his passion
For Nlemadim, despite his extensive experience in film and television, theatre remains the foundation of his creative journey.
He said his years on the stage helped him develop the discipline, preparation and respect for the craft that continue to influence his work today.

From honing his skills at the University of Ibadan to performing in Ameh Oboni with the National Troupe of Nigeria in 2005, Oluronbi: The Musical (2008–2010), Death and the King’s Horseman (2019) and Sisi Pelebe (2021), Nlemadim said theatre taught him invaluable lessons about performance and storytelling.

According to him, film and television subsequently exposed him to the importance of scale, teamwork and collaboration.
“I draw inspiration from both worlds in everything I do,” he said.

Excellence beyond the camera
Nlemadim’s career has extended beyond acting. His experience in production management has seen him take on demanding responsibilities on major projects.

As Supervising Producer on Grown (2024) and Her Dark Past (2024), and producer of Mgbuka (2025), The Yard (2025) and Mother of the Brides (2025), he has continued to combine creative thinking with production efficiency.

He also appeared in productions including Omera (2024), Sin (2024) and The Man Died (2024).

For him, success in production is not simply about artistic creativity but also about delivering quality work within the available resources.

“It comes down to production efficiency. My responsibility is to maximise value without compromising quality, time or budget,” he said.

“Whether I am producing The Voice Nigeria, working on The Voice Africa, or acting in Dear Future Me (2025), the objective remains the same—deliver excellence on schedule. That’s what clients and audiences remember.”
‘Nollywood has evolved’

Reflecting on the Nigerian film industry, Nlemadim said Nollywood had undergone significant transformation over the years.
He identified the Africa Magic Original Films initiative as one of the developments that helped establish a stronger culture of original television content in the industry.

“The Africa Magic Original Films initiative laid the foundation for much of the original content we see today. We produced more than 130 telemovies within three years,” he said.

He noted that the industry has moved from operating under highly demanding conditions to having stronger structures, international partnerships, streaming platforms and improved production standards.

However, he said the growth of the industry also requires professionals who understand both the creative and business dimensions of filmmaking.

“That’s why I’m passionate about script development, production management and coaching,” he said.

“Great storytelling depends on both artistic vision and effective execution.”
‘Kamsi’ remains special

Among the productions that have had a lasting impact on his career, Nlemadim singled out Kamsi (2018), directed by Uzodinma Okpechi.

He served as both Production Manager and Actor on the project, which went on to receive international recognition.

The film won three awards at the African International Film Festival (AFRICUFF) in Houston, Texas, and received multiple honours at the 7th Kaduna International Film Festival.
It also won Best Feature Film and Best Director and received six nominations at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF).

According to Nlemadim, the experience reinforced his belief that authentic Nigerian stories can find audiences beyond Africa when they are told with honesty and excellence.

“It reinforced my belief that authentic Nigerian stories, told with honesty and excellence, can resonate with audiences anywhere in the world,” he said.

His recent stage production, No Gree (2024), also remains significant to him because of the conversations it generated among audiences.

Looking to the next generation

With credits spanning productions such as Leaked (2022), Fate (2020), Trapped (2016), Riona (2020) and Tinsel (2010–2015), Nlemadim believes the next chapter of his career should focus increasingly on mentorship and industry development.

He said Nigeria’s creative industry must deliberately invest in young producers, filmmakers and other professionals who can combine global standards with authentic African storytelling.

“We must invest in the next generation of producers and filmmakers—professionals who can meet global production standards while preserving the authenticity of African storytelling,” he said.

An alumnus of the Daystar Leadership Academy and Ebonylife Creative Academy, Nlemadim has built a reputation for production management, cross-functional team leadership and creative problem-solving.

Advice to young creatives
For young people seeking careers in Nigeria’s creative industry, Nlemadim’s message is straightforward: talent alone is not enough.

He advised emerging creatives to master their craft, understand the business behind their art, remain disciplined and teachable, and always prepare adequately for opportunities.

“Talent may open the door, but consistency, professionalism and integrity are what sustain a lasting career,” he said.

For Emmanuel Ozzi, the journey from the theatre stage of Ibadan to major television and film productions is more than a personal success story. It is a testament to the power of discipline, continuous learning and a commitment to telling stories that endure.