Ayo Makun Shares Personal Inspiration Behind New Movie The Waiter

Celebrated Nigerian comedian and filmmaker Ayo Makun is back with another cinematic masterpiece, The Waiter which deliver box office hits, AY sheds light on the inspiration behind the movie, the Nigerian cinema and the role family plays in his success.

In an interview, AY shared that The Waiter is deeply personal, as it reflects his own life experiences. “Having been a waiter in real life, this story is about giving hope and showing that with dedication, sacrifices, and the right motivation, you can achieve greatness,” he said.

AY explained that the film mirrors societal realities in Nigeria, using relatable stories to inspire audiences. “I’ve kept people waiting for something worthwhile, and now it’s time to say, ‘Food is ready.’ There’s no better way to tell our story than through movies.”

AY’s success in Nollywood is undeniable. Years ago, he made N150 million at the box office, a groundbreaking figure at the time.

Reflecting on today’s achievements by other filmmakers, he said, “When I hit N150 million, it was over $1 million in Nigeria. Adjusted for inflation, it was a huge milestone. I did what others are doing now, but 10 years ago.”

He credits his early achievements with paving the way for today’s Nollywood successes, as more filmmakers now cross the N1 billion mark.

Though the film’s title might remind fans of AY’s previous web series, this movie stands on its own. “This movie is different,” he clarified. “It draws from my real-life experiences, like working as a bartender at the NNPC junior staff club. The Waiter has sentimental value and portrays the struggles and realities of the average Nigerian today.”

AY is known for breaking barriers in Nollywood. In his previous blockbuster, Merry Men, he introduced action scenes, bringing in a trainer to coach the actors, a rarity at the time. His commitment to showcasing Nigerian talent remains strong.

“When I see someone with potential, I believe it’s my responsibility to give them a platform. For example, I discovered Suleiman on Instagram. Today, he’s a leading name in action choreography,” he revealed.