Actress Shirley Igwe has expressed relief after the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) lifted her suspension following a July 19 incident on a Lagos movie set.
Speaking to Potpourri, Shirley described receiving confirmation of her reinstatement as “a heavy weight lifted,” adding that the decision validated the truth she maintained throughout the disciplinary process. “I was thankful — not just for myself, but for everyone who supported and believed in me throughout the process,” she said.
Reflecting on the incident, she said, “I defended myself that day because the situation escalated beyond what I could reasonably ignore, but this journey has taught me the importance of staying centered even when things around me feel unfair or chaotic.” She added that the process made her more aware of how quickly misunderstandings can spread, strengthening her resolve to remain calm under pressure.
Shirley also pledged to uphold professionalism going forward. “I intend to approach every set with calmness, clarity, and intentional communication. I will involve my manager more actively to help maintain respectful boundaries,” she said.
The suspension period, she revealed, was reflective and refining. “It gave me the chance to rest, reset, and reconnect with my passion for acting. As I return, I’m becoming more selective about the productions I accept, prioritising sets that are organized, respectful, and safe,” she added.
Looking ahead, the actress hopes to turn her experience into positive change for Nollywood. She plans to advocate for better working conditions, mentor younger actors, and promote professionalism on sets. “Ultimately, I want my journey, even the challenging parts to inspire growth, unity, and positive change within our industry,” she concluded.
