Niyi's journey as a performer began at home, entertaining family and friends with his talents. His 8th birthday party, in particular, stands out as a memorable milestone, as he took on the role of Peter Pan and ended up breaking his arm in the process. Undeterred, he continued to pursue his passion for the stage, participating in high school and university theater productions.
A pivotal moment in his development as an actor came during his time at Piedmont University in Georgia, where he played the role of Peter Sloan in Moss Hart's "Light up the Sky." This experience sparked a deep-seated interest in the art of acting, and he began to realize the immense potential of the stage.
Upon graduating, Niyi set out to make a name for himself in the acting world, taking on any roles he could find in the southeast. To supplement his income, he also ventured into modeling, working with prominent brands such as Guess, New Balance, and Gap.
While working on a project with the renowned actor Samuel L. Jackson, Niyi sought the veteran's advice on furthering his own acting career. Mr. Jackson's words of wisdom were unequivocal: "Absolutely, you should move to New York." Niyi heeded this advice, selling his belongings and moving to the city that never sleeps.
Initially, he took on a day job as a doorman on the Upper East Side's Lexington Avenue, while attending drama classes at night. His hard work and dedication soon paid off, as he began landing supporting roles on network television and working in film.
Today, Niyi has made the move to Los Angeles, where he continues to pursue his passion for acting. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of following one's dreams.