Popular Nigerian content creator and actress Maryam Apaokagi, widely known as Taaooma, has revealed that African parents, especially her mother, serve as her biggest source of comedy inspiration.

Speaking in a recent interview with TheCable, she shared that she turns to everyday life in African homes whenever she experiences creative block.

The award-winning content creator explained that she observes how her mother and other African parents behave and carry out daily activities, then adds her unique touch to create relatable skits. She noted that family interactions offer endless material, and there is always something amusing to draw from.

She also opened up about her popular character “Quadri,” revealing that it was originally created for an advert and was meant to be temporary. However, the character’s rebellious nature, typical of young men from Ilorin, Kwara State, resonated with audiences, making Quadri a fan favourite.

Taaooma added that most of her creative decisions happen naturally, without overthinking.

She said:
“It’s not like I don’t run out of ideas, but I obviously recoup and rejuvenate.”

“One of the major sources of my ideas is my mum and other African parents — what they do and how they do it. I just take the ideas and put my own spice on them.”

“If you sit down and think about what your mum does and everything, there are so many crazy things they do.”

“I don’t just consume content anyhow. I consume things that I know would inspire me and things that are good for my brain.”

“I don’t really read books; I’m not going to lie to you. I just started reading Atomic Habits. I pray I finish it this year.”

“Quadri was actually a walk-past role. He was never meant to stay. When I did Quadri, I realised people liked the character.”

“Quadri is a regular Ilorin boy. They are very rebellious and don’t take nonsense. Everybody has a Quadri character in their life.”

“I don’t sit down and say I want to pick a character from this place or that place. I just do it according to how it comes.”