Nigerian comedian and actor Debo Adebayo, famously known as Mr. Macaroni, has shared a candid account of his past financial recklessness.
He revealed that a combination of falling victim to a scam and a failed business investment between 2021 and 2022 led to substantial financial losses, completely depleting his savings and leaving him deeply in debt.
The situation worsened when he turned to borrowing in an attempt to meet his commitments and responsibilities.
“After I lost all the money I had then, the trouble started when I had to borrow money from different sources to settle all pending commitments and also fulfill certain responsibilities I have always believed were mine to fulfill,” he wrote.
“I make money in millions, so I never thought borrowing money to pay back with interest could ever be a problem. But I got too comfortable, and it took me a long time to realise that I was using the money I was earning to pay back my interest. Also, my financial recklessness did not help.”
The skit maker, known for his satirical comedy and activism, admitted that he had always been generous to a fault, even before fame.
He described how he would give away his last meal to someone in need, often disregarding his own well-being.
“If you are like me, please learn to share your breakfast and keep your money for lunch,” he advised. “I have always known this, but I am a stubborn person. I would give out breakfast, lunch and, if possible, dinner.”
Despite his struggles, 2024 marked a major turning point in his acting career.
He disclosed that two of the films he starred in were screened at international festivals, and his performances received high praise. However, behind the scenes, he was still battling overwhelming debt.
“2024 was a turning point for my acting career. Two of the films I starred in were screened at international festivals, and my performances in some other films released last year also earned me numerous commendations.
“However, it was also the most troubling year for me. I was burdened every single day and night, knowing that I was over half a billion in debt.”
Adding to his woes, Mr Macaroni shared that he suffered a painful betrayal by someone he considered family.
The experience left him devastated and further reinforced his trust issues.
“She betrayed my trust, love, and confidence, and for that, I was completely destabilized,” he confessed.
“I hardly trust people, and nothing really surprises me about human actions, but this one I could never have prepared for.”
However, he made it clear that he is a fighter who refuses to stay down as he has, with the support of family and friends, made difficult but necessary decisions to turn his life around.
“But you see, one thing about me is that I’m a warrior! I have never backed down from a fight. When I fall, I bounce back even stronger by God’s grace, and I keep my head up,” he declared.
“So, this letter of love is for my people going through whatever. Please DO NOT GIVE UP! People will betray you, but you must not let that derail you. You are alive for a reason. And every day of your life, you must fight to be a better person than you were yesterday.”
The skit maker concluded by emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes and making better choices moving forward.
“May the love in our hearts be forever greater than the hate, betrayal, and wickedness in the world,” he wrote.
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