Sunday Afolabi hardship deepens as the veteran actor reveals financial struggles, lost acting jobs and the toll on his family

Veteran Nollywood actor Sunday Afolabi has opened up about severe financial hardship in Lagos, revealing on August 12, 2026, that declining acting opportunities, failed side businesses and mounting family pressures have left him struggling to make ends meet.

Also read: Patience Ozokwor Explains Why She Embraces Villain Roles

Speaking on Biola Adebayo’s Talk to B programme, Afolabi described the difficult period he and his family have endured, saying he chose legitimate work rather than begging or becoming involved in illegal activities.

Afolabi said relocating to Badagry in search of a better life also came at a significant professional cost. The move, he explained, contributed to a prolonged break from acting and made it harder for him to maintain his career.

“I wasn’t ready to beg for food. I would rather do any legitimate job,” Afolabi said, explaining that he turned to photography when acting opportunities became scarce.

The veteran actor said his struggles extended to his equipment and transportation. His Nissan Quest reportedly remained unusable for almost two years because he could not afford repairs, while his photography business also suffered after his camera stopped working.

Afolabi eventually sold the vehicle and used the proceeds to purchase a fairly used motorcycle. However, he said he was unfamiliar with riding motorcycles and repeatedly fell while trying to use it.

The experience became particularly painful when a member of the public recognised him as a television actor but questioned his circumstances.

Afolabi recalled the encounter while fighting back tears, saying the man’s words reminded him of the contrast between his former visibility as an actor and his current difficulties.

The emotional moment also reflected the wider pressure the actor said his wife and children had experienced alongside him.

Afolabi’s account highlights the often overlooked financial vulnerability of veteran performers whose careers depend heavily on irregular production opportunities.

For actors without steady commercial work or alternative income streams, prolonged periods away from film sets can quickly affect housing, transportation and family welfare.

The appeal has since shifted attention towards practical support rather than sympathy alone. Biola Adebayo appealed to members of the public and Afolabi’s colleagues in Nollywood to assist the actor.

Adebayo said she hoped to help him secure better accommodation in the city and obtain a vehicle that could provide him with a means of earning an income.

“I need help for Mr. Afolabi. If you have a car that you’re not using, I’ll drop his account details,” Adebayo said.

She added that a vehicle could potentially allow Afolabi to earn through ride-hailing services while continuing to rebuild his acting career.

The intervention offers a hopeful turn to Sunday Afolabi hardship, with Adebayo drawing on previous support efforts through her programme to mobilise assistance for the actor.

Afolabi’s story is also a powerful reminder of the precarious nature of entertainment careers, where public recognition does not necessarily translate into financial security.

Also read: Patience Ozokwor Explains Why She Embraces Villain Roles

His willingness to speak openly about his circumstances has brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by older actors when regular industry opportunities decline.