Acclaimed actress, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, is stepping out for the first time as a director.

This comes about four weeks after veteran producer Lancelot Imasuen, accused her and others like Genevieve and Jim Iyke of abandoning the industry that made them.

Lancelot, however, called out these big stars, stating that they cannot be bigger than the industry that birthed them.

Imasuen had said in an interview: “As of 30 years ago, there were nothing like big stars. Everybody evolved. Those who chose to be behind the camera like myself as well as those who wanted to be in front of the camera.

“Nobody looked down on anybody. Everyone respected all that we were called to do with our talents. “But overtime, we have seen Nollywood that birthed great names being bastardized, abandoned and ignored even by those who were nobody then.

“That’s crux of this parley. Where are the people that Nollywood birthed? Some of them have become bigger than the industry that made them.

“I am calling out the Omotolas, the Genevieve’s, the Emeka Ikes and the Jim Iykes. I am also calling out all of them who benefitted from Nollywood to come and give back to the industry.

“We cannot continue to allow the house that gave us a name to sink. Nollywood gave us fortune and fame. How come some of my colleagues are so comfortable abandoning the platform that groomed them.”

A development from Omotola, however, has the potential to pacify him.

After featuring in over 300 films, the actress popularly called Omosexy has made her directorial debut with the release of her film, ‘Mother’s Love.’

Co-produced by Omotola and Tyna Obahiagbon, the film explores themes of maternal sacrifice, redemption, and the quiet strength of women navigating life’s harshest storms.

“I’ve always believed in the power of African stories told by Africans, and after years in front of the lens, I felt compelled to shape narratives from the director’s chair,” Omotola said.

Continuing, the 47-year-old mother of four said, “Mother’s Love is a story close to my heart, and I’m proud to launch this next phase of my career with a film that centers our voices and lived realities.”

‘Mother’s Love’ will begin its festival run later this year as the project is being submitted to top international film festivals, with a release date coming soon.