Jimeto Onyedika: Rewriting His Script In Film

Sometimes, pursuing purpose requires more than courage. It requires starting over completely. That is the case for Jimeto Onyedika, a fourth-year Theatre Arts student at the University of Lagos who is a growing Writer and Director. The journey to becoming a writer and director did not begin on a film set but began with walking away from two science courses, disappointing his parents, and rewriting his WAEC examinations just to qualify for the path he truly wanted. Today, that decision is no longer questioned. It is producing results.

Jimeto and Choosing His Passion

Before theatre and filmmaking, Jimeto’s academic life followed a more conventional route. He studied Microbiology and later Medical Laboratory Science, courses widely regarded as stable and prestigious.

However, stability did not equal fulfillment. He had been writing since he was little. Storytelling was not a new interest; it was part of who he was. Remaining in science-based courses felt like suppressing something essential.

Therefore, he made a bold decision: he withdrew and returned to rewrite his WAEC examinations to secure the literature credits required to study Theatre Arts.

It was a dramatic reset, both academically and emotionally.

The Reality of Building While Studying 

The transition was indeed not smooth. His parents struggled with the decision, particularly his mother. Leaving two science programs for theatre felt risky. Their fear was understandable because in this part of the world, creative careers are often viewed as uncertain. Although his father came around more quickly, the acceptance did not happen overnight.

Beyond family resistance, the practical challenges were real. Balancing academics with a growing creative career proved demanding. There were frequent clashes between school projects and paid film jobs.

At one point, he had a major school project and an external directing job at the same time. He tried so hard to work through both but he couldn’t bear it. This led to him making a difficult  decision. He refunded the client and dropped the paid job to prioritise his academic work.

Proof That The Risk is Worth It

Once Jimeto committed to the arts, he pursued it seriously. Before gaining admission into UNILAG, he attended the Ebony-Life Film Academy on scholarship, where he studied directing and scriptwriting. His excellence was quickly recognized. He won Best Director and Best Script during his time there.

Since then, he has directed multiple stage productions and recently released his first film, Sharp Guy, which had a successful private screening and is currently being pitched to international platforms.

The project also marked a turning point in his family’s journey with him. His father fully funded the film and his mother now sees that passion is something worth fighting for.

Financially, his craft contributes meaningfully to his life as a student. The income he earns from directing and writing helps ease academic expenses and gives him independence.

To manage the constant tension between school and work, Jimeto built a support system. He intentionally developed strong relationships with coursemates and lecturers who understand his commitments. Friends help with notes and attendance when he is on set, and his lecturers are aware of his professional engagements. He notes that collaboration and trust are survival tools.

He has also formalised his creative ambitions. In July 2025, he co-founded a production company, S’uyi, with a partner, Chidinma Chukwuma. S’uyi is a symbol of his long-term vision beyond campus and his own personal brand. He hopes to collaborate with other filmmakers as the years run by.

Why Jimeto Refuses To Wait

Despite the stress and sacrifices, one thing keeps Jimeto going: without writing or directing, he does not feel complete. Creativity is not optional for him, it is identity.

He is also deeply aware of the realities of the labour market. Many students graduate uncertain about their next steps. By building his career while still in school, he believes he is creating a foundation that will give him direction and recognition before graduation.

The journey has taught him more than filmmaking. It has taught him discipline, being able to think on his feet, solve problems creatively and become someone others can rely on. Trust, adaptability and responsibility have become as important as talent.

What Creatives Can Learn

Jimeto’s story is not simply about changing courses. It is about alignment, resilience and long-term thinking. The understanding that passion without structure can fail but passion combined with discipline, community and strategic action can evolve into a sustainable career. Rewriting his WAEC examinations was not a setback. It was a rewrite of his future.

For student creatives standing at crossroads between expectation and desire, his journey offers a reminder: sometimes the bravest decision is not choosing the safer path. It is choosing the honest one.