Nollywood actor Timini Egbuson has revealed that one of his biggest career regrets—missing out on being Nigeria’s representative for Big Brother Africa—actually paved the way for unexpected success.

Recalling the near miss on The Culture League podcast, Timini said:

“I was supposed to be on Big Brother Africa some years ago… I even hired someone to manage my social media. But in the end, they didn’t pick me.”

Despite building excitement for the opportunity, he never got the final call.

Instead of letting disappointment derail him, Timini pivoted to acting—and landed a breakthrough role on MTV Shuga Naija the same year. He credits that role with launching his Nollywood rise:

“If I had gone on Big Brother… I might not have made it in the entertainment industry.”

For Timini, missing BBA became an unexpected turning point:

“Some of the things I didn’t get would have derailed me… I believe where I am now is where I’m meant to be.”

“When you lose an opportunity, count it as a blessing—dust your feet, and keep moving.”