Veteran Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has said she understands the circumstances that lead some young women into transactional relationships, popularly known as “runs,” but advised them not to make it a permanent way of life.
Speaking during an interview on The Morayo Show hosted by Morayo Afolabi-Brown, Bello stressed the importance of self-worth and encouraged young women to look beyond societal pressures and survival challenges.
The interview, originally published on YouTube on May 21, gained widespread attention after clips circulated across social media platforms.
Addressing issues of self-image and validation, Bello said women do not need to reveal their bodies or seek online attention to be considered attractive or successful.
She said, “There are too many children out there, too many babies my age younger that needs my voice that needs to hear that the seeds that you sow matter.
“That needs to hear, ‘No, you don’t have to show your boobs to be sexy.’
“That needs to hear, ‘No, you don’t have to shake your bum bum to go viral or get attention.’”
Bello also spoke about women who engage in transactional relationships to make ends meet, noting that she empathises with their situations and does not judge them.
“And if what you’re doing now is being a runs girl to make money, you don’t have to stay there. I understand it. I’m not knocking you. I never judge,” she said.
She acknowledged that financial pressures, including caring for family members and funding education, often influence such decisions.
“If that’s what you have to do right now… some girls are doing it because they need to feed mum, they need to send their aburo to school. I understand it.
“However, my darlings, don’t stay there. You are more than that,” she added.
Reflecting on her career, Bello said she remains committed to acting because she sees it as her purpose.
“I’m an actor. Every actor doesn’t have to be a producer. I face my lane. I do what God asked me to do,” she said.
She added that while some entertainers branch into production for financial gain, her focus remains on fulfilling her calling rather than pursuing more money.
“If I sit and go do films, I’m looking for more money. No, money is not everything,” Bello said.