Yes, I’m single and ready to mingle —Ada Uli

Agwunobi Akachukwu Peculiar, fondly known as Ada Uli, is one of Nollywood’s brightest emerging talents, adored for her regal and princess-like roles. In this conversation with SEGUN ADEBAYO, the 23-year-old actress from Anambra State talks about her rise, the obstacles she’s faced, and the shocking moment she almost lost her virginity to a producer.

Could you walk us through your early life and upbringing?

I am an actor and a content creator/influencer. I’m the only daughter and last child of Mr and Mrs Udochukwu Agwunobi. My father passed away when I was four, so my mum raised me. I’m 23 years old and a graduate of History and International Studies from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam.

What was your first step into the entertainment space?

It all started like a joke. I’ve always been this introverted person who loved the media. I was “Facebook Famous” when Facebook first became popular in Nigeria. I hardly went out; I preferred staying indoors, reading or taking pictures to upload online.

My mum never liked me saying I wanted to be an actress—she would say, “It doesn’t end well”—but my brothers always defended me. In 2020, I took the bold step into content creation and acting, using the name Ada Uli because I felt if my whole village backed me, it would be great.

I had help from my pastor and foster dad, Rev Francis Akwobi, Mr Victor, my brothers, and my mum. My first role was as a maid, followed by a lead role as a princess. Things didn’t work out then, so I left Nollywood for content creation. I returned fully in April 2024 with the help of my boss, Uchenna Mbunabo, whom I call my father (Nnam).

How do you remember your very first day on set?

Whenever I walk, I usually look down because I’m shy. But the moment the director said “Action,” the shyness disappeared. I crammed my lines well and even helped my co-star with hers. I was 19, but you wouldn’t know because I’m smart.

We almost got into a fight because she kept forgetting her lines. After we wrapped, the director shook my hand and said I did great. That set led to another role, this time as a sub-lead princess.

Have you ever faced inappropriate advances in your career?

S3xually harassed physically? No. But offered s3x for a role? Yes. After my first role as a maid, the director told me I needed to sleep with the executive producer to move forward. I was still a virgin then.

I asked why, and they said, “Who would tell your mum if you don’t?” That was my sign to run. I left after one scene and never went back. They kept calling, but I avoided them. Once, they left me in a hotel while they went to shoot—I ran again.

I told my brothers and quit Nollywood. In 2024, I met Uchenna Mbunabo, who restored my faith. He showed me my talent could speak for me and treated me like a daughter.

Do you turn down certain movie roles?

Yes, I’ve rejected roles even with good pay if they don’t align with my morals or add value. If a script is shallow or baseless, I’m not doing it. I prefer deep, meaningful stories that challenge me as an actor. Sadly, some producers only care about making money, not quality storytelling.

Do you think marriage or relationships could affect your career?

Anything that would harm my career, I avoid. I keep my private life off social media. If I marry or date, there will be ground rules. People can’t break what they don’t know. If controversies ever come, they’ll be for good reasons.

Are you currently seeing someone?

I’m single and yes, I’m ready to mingle.

Would you marry someone in the film industry?

Yes, I can. Actors understand the nature of the job and are less likely to stress me. No jealousy, no stereotypes — just make the money and bring it home. But I’m also open to non-actors.

Have you ever turned down a suitor?

Yes, and I still do. If we don’t connect or resonate with each other, I won’t proceed. Let’s just say we’re not compatible.

Can you share your most embarrassing on-set moment?

In my early days of returning to Nollywood, a director removed my scene and told me to go home because I wasn’t ready, without understanding the situation. I had waited all day without shooting. I cried, but it taught me to always be ready ahead of time.

Do you plan to produce your own films in the future?

Definitely. When I start producing, there will be no stopping me.

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