Shame To Fame The Book:
Bolanle Ninalowo, popularly known as Makanaki, is a household name in Nollywood. His journey to stardom, however, wasn’t a smooth ride. From leaving a comfortable life in America to struggling in Nigeria, facing countless failures, and nearly losing everything, Ninalowo’s story is one of resilience, faith, and determination. Now, he’s sharing his powerful journey in his book, Shame to Fame, a raw and inspiring autobiography that speaks to the struggles and triumphs of chasing one’s dreams.
In this exclusive interview with Rise Up Magazine, Ninalowo opens up about the inspiration behind his book, the struggles he overcame, and his motivation to keep pushing forward.
RUM: How did ‘Shame to Fame’ happen? What was the inspiration behind the book?
NINO: The inspiration behind the book is my journey to success. Twelve years ago, I left America—a place where I had a great job, financial security, and family support—to return to Nigeria in search of something greater. I wanted to rediscover myself. But the transition was brutal; I lost everything and faced endless failures.
My story isn’t a typical “grass-to-glory” tale. I came from a well-educated background, yet I had to unlearn and rebuild. I failed repeatedly, and people gave up on me. But through persistence and faith, I turned those failures into stepping stones. Instead of returning to America in defeat, I stayed and rebuilt. That determination is what Shame to Fame is all about.
RUM: Actors have busy schedules. How did you find time to write the book?
NINO: I had always promised myself that when God answered my prayers, I would use my story to inspire others. The COVID-19 lockdown gave me that opportunity. Since work had come to a halt, I took the time to reflect and put my journey into words. That period of stillness allowed me to finally write Shame to Fame and share my truth with the world.
RUM: With so many motivational books out there, how is ‘Shame to Fame’ different?
NINO: The difference is that Shame to Fame is my real-life story. It’s not a collection of theories or borrowed wisdom—it’s my truth, my failures, my lessons. People have watched my growth in real-time, from struggling to breaking into Nollywood and building a career. My journey is relatable, especially for Nigerians in the diaspora considering a return home. The book doesn’t just highlight success; it exposes the raw struggles, insecurities, and sacrifices behind the scenes.
RUM: What keeps you motivated? Who inspires you?
NINO: My children are my biggest motivation. I work hard so they can have a foundation to build on. Success stories also fuel me—icons like 2Baba, D’Banj, and Wizkid remind me that greatness is possible. And above all, I inspire myself. Looking back at my journey, I see proof that, as the Bible says, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”
RUM: Any final advice for your readers and fans?
NINO: Shame to Fame isn’t just my story—it’s the Nigerian dream, the African dream. I want people to read it and realize that no matter how tough life gets, faith and persistence can change everything. Believe in yourself, trust in God, and never quit. Whatever seems out of reach today will not always be out of reach.
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