“Don’t chase fame abroad without first mastering your craft at home. Every actor is an ambassador of their country, so before you step out, make sure you’re bringing your best,” Blay told Graphic Showbiz in an exclusive chat on Friday, October 10.

According to him, success in Nollywood or any global film market demanded identity, originality and discipline.

 “As an actor, you need to have your own identity. Our speech, our rhythm, and our essence as Ghanaians are unique. Don’t lose that. Develop your voice, your style and your artistic essence,” he explained.

Blay said stepping into Nollywood was stepping onto an international stage, where competition was fierce and excuses were few. “Once you leave your comfort zone, you have to bring your A-game. There’s no room for lapses. That’s why it’s important to refine your craft at home—your technique, range, and camera performance before going global,” he stressed.

Asked whether he would discourage young actors from moving to Nigeria, Blay, who featured in the Nigerian film, The Boss and the Manager, released last Thursday, was quick to clarify: “No, I wouldn’t advise against it. If the opportunity comes, grab it. But if it’s not there, stay focused, build yourself here, and be ready. Opportunities aren’t only in Nigeria; they’re everywhere,” he advised.

He also reminded aspiring actors that challenges exist in every industry, whether Nollywood, Bollywood or Hollywood. “Even in Ghana, you can attend auditions and not get picked. It happens everywhere. For me, challenges are part of life, part of the journey.”

Blay himself works across both Ghanaian and Nigerian productions, choosing roles based on the project. His Nollywood journey began in 2023 after working with actress and producer, Selassie Ibrahim, on the Showmax original The Billionaire’s Wife.

 Playing her son on screen opened new doors, and through her network, he landed a role with Nigerian producer Uche Mbunabo. By March 2024, he was in Abuja filming The Brothers’ Rivalry, marking his Nollywood debut.

Touching on what Nigeria seems to be doing right when it comes to the film industry and what Ghana can learn from it, the Grey Dust actor said Ghana’s film industry had the talent and potential, but must push harder to compete on a global stage.

“Nigerians have numbers, yes, but beyond that, their energy is unmatched. They don’t want to be seen as lazy, so even the smallest task is approached with passion and excellence. That’s the extra edge,” he explained.

Blay was quick to add that Ghanaians were not lazy, but he believed Nollywood’s competitive environment had instilled a stronger culture of discipline and efficiency.

Another area Ghana could learn from, he noted, was cultural promotion. “What I’ve realised about Nigerians is they never joke with their heritage. Like Indians, they find every chance to project their culture. That’s something we need to emulate more.”

Blay also praised Nigeria’s creative use of platforms such as YouTube, which he described as a “serious business” that generated revenue and global reach. “Nigerians don’t just make content for themselves. They think globally, like Americans. That’s what I want for Ghana too,” he added.

For him, the difference boils down to structure and mindset. “In Nigeria, filmmaking is treated as a business, not just a passion. Passion keeps you going, but business keeps you grounded. That’s what Ghana is lacking right now, but we will get there,” he stated.