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Nollywood actress, Toyin Abraham, has opened up about her inability to speak her native Edo dialect despite her roots in Auchi, Edo State.
The award-winning actress made the revelation during a chat with popular TikToker, Jarvis, at the premiere of the movie Ginger.
According to Toyin, her upbringing and environment largely influenced her language and cultural identity.
She explained that being born and raised in Yoruba land exposed her to the Yoruba language and traditions, making her more fluent in Yoruba than her native Edo. She added that her marriage to a Yoruba man further cemented her connection to the culture.
“I can’t speak Edo,” Toyin said with a laugh. “You know I was born and brought up in Yoruba land. And I married a Yoruba man. So I’m practically Yoruba. I can’t even speak Edo, not one bit. But there’s no Yoruba I can’t speak.”
The actress’s confession has sparked conversations online, with many Nigerians relating to her experience.
Some social media users pointed out that language loss is a common issue among those raised outside their ethnic regions, especially in multicultural cities like Lagos and Ibadan.
Others praised her honesty, commending her for embracing her Yoruba background while still acknowledging her Edo heritage.
Toyin Abraham, known for her exceptional performances in movies such as The Ghost and the Tout Too, Ijakumo, and Alakada Reloaded, has continued to build a strong presence in Nollywood. Her ability to blend humor, emotion, and cultural storytelling has made her one of the most loved figures in the Nigerian film industry.
Fans also noted that Toyin’s statement reflects the dynamic nature of modern Nigerian identity, where inter-ethnic marriages and urban lifestyles often influence people’s cultural affiliations.
Many argued that her situation underscores the need for parents to intentionally teach their children their native languages, regardless of where they live.
The conversation has since evolved into a wider discussion about cultural preservation in Nigeria, as younger generations increasingly adopt languages like English and Yoruba over their indigenous dialects. Some cultural enthusiasts worry that many Nigerian languages risk extinction if the trend continues unchecked.
Despite her inability to speak Edo, Toyin’s pride in her heritage remains intact. The actress continues to celebrate her roots through her work and personal life, often using her platform to promote unity among Nigerians of diverse backgrounds.
The actress’s comment comes amid growing awareness about the importance of preserving cultural identity in the entertainment industry.
As one of Nollywood’s biggest stars, Toyin Abraham’s openness has once again endeared her to fans who admire her authenticity both on and off-screen.
Toyin, who is married to fellow actor Kolawole Ajeyemi, remains a strong voice in Nollywood and an inspiration to young women in the industry. Her story is a reflection of Nigeria’s cultural diversity one that blends languages, traditions, and identities into a unique expression of modern life.
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