Nollywood actor and producer, Jide Awoboba, has called for more inclusive government support for the Nigerian film industry. He recently revealed that such crucial backing is key to creating an industry that can compete favourably all over the world.
Speaking during a recent interview, Jide revealed that existing government grants in Nollywood only benefit a select few in the movie industry, and a long list of creatives still lack access to the much-needed support.
According to him, the fact is that there is not enough government intervention in the country’s movie sector, and it will be difficult to see major progress in Nollywood if the government isn’t fully involved.
“I don’t think we have enough government intervention. Even if they are intervening, it’s probably for a few selected people that are benefiting from it. I don’t think it’s reflecting in the industry. So, I feel when the government is fully involved—empowering a lot of people—then we’ll see real progress. It’s there, but it doesn’t circulate,” he said.
Jide highlighted how important it is for Nollywood actors to earn well because a lot of creatives mainly rely on their jobs in the industry to sustain their daily living.
He is of the opinion that the professionals in the Nigerian movie industry still do not earn enough money from Nollywood alone, and that forces them to have other side hustles that end up being a distraction.
“We have a lot of creatives around here and this is the only thing they do for a living. We need to get to that level where your remuneration can sustain your livelihood,” he added.
