Nigerian actress and producer Rita Dominic has urged Nigerian women to step out of their comfort zones to take the lead in their decision-making spaces.
Dominic spoke on the ‘Legacy Builders Panel Session’ at the Zenith Bank 2026 International Women’s Day Seminar themed ‘Take It, Own It’. The seminar was organised by the financial institution to celebrate Nigerian women’s successes and accomplishments, while empowering them to “take and own” their operational spaces and leadership positions.
Recalling her early days as an actress in Nollywood, Dominic noted that the industry was dominated by male marketers who wrote and called the shots, controlled the narratives of women onscreen.
28 years into her career, after becoming a producer herself, the actress noted that the industry looks different, with one now able to walk onto film sets and see female cinematographers, writers, and directors.
“I became a producer and began to employ more women, too. “
Beyond hiring more women to work with her on film sets, Dominic revealed that she is soon to launch her Acting Masterclass project, where she teaches young women interested in acting how to act and sustain their brands in the film industry.
She commended Zenith Bank and its General Managing Director, Dame Dr Adaora Umeoji, for supporting the upcoming 48th Miss Nigeria competition.
Dominic, who has been the Chairman of the competition for the past two years, said the 2026 edition, themed ‘She’s Made of More’, refers to the fact that there is more to the Nigerian woman than beauty. “Outside of your beauty, you are dynamic,” she said to the seminar’s participant.
She finally urged the women to step outside of their comfort zone, saying, “There’s no comfort being in the comfort zone. Step outside your comfort zone, and live.”
