By Fidelis Duker
In recent weeks after my article on THE NEW YORUBA FILM INDUSTRY: FROM VHS TO NETFLIX AND CINEMA, a significant event has taken place in the Nigerian film industry popularly called Nollywood especially the media space.
In my article i tried to explain that the release of the highly acclaimed movie, Jagun Jagun, marks an intentional evolutional phase akin to what Living in Bondage accomplished in 1992.
Unfortunately, instead of celebrating this remarkable achievement, some individuals have chosen to turn it into an unnecessary ethnic war, questioning who truly started Nollywood and who holds ownership rights thus exhibiting their ignorance of Nollywood.
It is disheartening to witness such tribalistic tendencies overshadowing the developmental growth of Nollywood. The original intention behind my article on Jagun Jagun and other films mentioned was simply to celebrate the general success of the Nigerian film industry on the global scene. This intentional evolutional phase in Nollywood represents a significant milestone in its journey towards recognition and acceptance worldwide. It should be noted that the film Amina by Okechukwu Ogunjiofor had made significant impact on Netflix too.
Nollywood has undoubtedly become a force to be reckoned with in the global film industry. Over the years, it has garnered international acclaim and attracted a diverse audience. This popularity has paved the way for numerous talented filmmakers and actors to showcase their skills and creativity, further enhancing the industry’s reputation.
Rather than engaging in futile debates about who owns Nollywood or who deserves credit for its inception, it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the collective efforts that have propelled the industry to its current state. The success of Nollywood is a result of the dedication, hard work, and talent of numerous individuals, both past and present.
Let us remember that Nollywood belongs to all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, ethnicity, or regional affiliations. It is a collective achievement that should unite us in pride and celebration. Instead of fueling unnecessary divisions, let us focus on nurturing and supporting the growth of Nollywood, ensuring that it continues to achieve even greater heights on the global stage.
The success witnessed through Jagun Jagun, Amina, Anikulapo and others should be seen as a stepping stone towards further excellence in our homegrown film industry. It is a reminder of the immense potential and talent that exists within Nollywood and an invitation for all stakeholders to collaborate, innovate, and create more groundbreaking content.
As we move forward, let us set aside our ignorance, misinformation, tribalism and ethnocentrism, embracing unity and inclusivity as we continue to witness the blossoming success of Nollywood. Only through cooperation and mutual support can we ensure that this intentional evolutional phase becomes a catalyst for even greater achievements within the Nigerian film industry.
*Fidelis Duker, Filmmaker and Media practitioner, writes from Calabar.
