Actor Gideon Okeke tackles Afrobeats stars for ignoring Nollywood

Nollywood performer Gideon Okeke has expressed his discontent with the Nigerian entertainment industry, as he mentioned that the film sector is often overlooked while Afrobeat musicians gain significant acclaim and international recognition.

In a clip posted on his Instagram account on Sunday, Okeke raised the issue of why Nigerian artists receive accolades, yet actors, actresses, and filmmakers are seldom recognized similarly.

“You know how we cherish our Afrobeat music. The top three, the top five, the big names. We elevate and revere ourselves,” he stated.

He pointed out notable Nigerian music figures like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Rema, among others, and questioned what would occur if they publicly acknowledged the skills present in Nollywood.

“What would happen if your top three, top five, or any significant figures there took a moment to explore and see your relatives on the other side of the media landscape and remarked, ah, look at that guy over there? He’s skilled. That lady, talented?” he inquired.

He further emphasized that although Afrobeat enjoys global attractiveness, Nigerian cinema is not receiving the same degree of international attention or appreciation, wondering if people avoid watching Nigerian films.

“All of you are not watching Nigerian movies; you all know yourselves. Do you view Nigerian films? Reflect on it, you know the answer,” he expressed in pidgin.

The actor brought up former US President Barack Obama, highlighting how his yearly endorsements of music have continually enhanced artists' global presence.

“Since Obama took office, every year he endorses you all, consistently. He publishes his favorite music; doesn’t your name ever appear on that list? Or is that not the case?” he questioned.

He bemoaned the fact that despite the numerous Nigerian films being produced, they have not gained access to such prominent endorsements.

"Nigerian films have never received that sort of momentum before,” he remarked.

Okeke called on Nigerian musicians and influential personalities to establish equivalent platforms for uplifting Nollywood.
“Promote your own Nollywood films for 2025. Highlight your top Nollywood films, outstanding Nollywood actors and actresses, phenomenal Nollywood producers, just as Obama promotes you annually,” he suggested.

He emphasized that the entertainment sector flourishes when creatives support each other, insisting that renowned entertainers should not solely reap all the recognition.

While recognizing that no one owes anyone anything, Okeke contended that mutual advancement is advantageous for everyone involved.

“The reality of life is that no individual owes you anything, and you do not owe anybody anything,” he stated.

He wrapped up by expressing frustration over the disunity in the creative industry, noting that Nigerian entertainers frequently fail to uplift their peers and advocating for greater acknowledgment and support for Nigerian actors and actresses.