Olusegun Adeyemo
Following the increasing trend of Nigerian movie actors seeking financial assistance online, especially during illness or hardship, The Journal Nigeria’s Olusegun Adeyemo had this brief exclusive interview with the Oyo State Chapter Governor of the Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (ANTP), Mr. Mikail Ariyo, on the sidelines of an event in Ibadan. He spoke candidly about the root of the problem and offered potential solutions.
How would you compare the movie industry of the past to what it is now?
The level of unprofessionalism in today’s movie industry is quite alarming. Unfortunately, many of us who are trained professionals no longer have a strong voice due to financial challenges. We can’t correct what’s going on because we lack the resources to assert ourselves. Whatever films these new entrants produce are what Nigerians watch, whether they meet professional standards or not.
Back in our time, there was more discipline. Today, there’s a lot of misrepresentation. You see a Nollywood actor piercing his ear in a role that has nothing to do with traditional deities like Sango—it’s misleading. There’s a loss of cultural direction. We constantly pray that God blesses us financially so we can begin to correct these problems in the industry.
Why do Nollywood actors come online to beg for financial help, especially during health crises?
To be honest, our government does not appreciate or support traditional arts and culture, particularly that of the Yoruba people. We in the industry don’t have much outside of our commitment to promoting culture through film.
In other countries, professions like football and acting are respected. Their governments and people take care of those professionals. But here in Nigeria, actors who are making the country happy and keeping the public entertained are left to suffer in silence. We don’t get the support we deserve.
What would you like the government to do to support the movie industry and its practitioners?
The government can do a lot by providing financial support to the industry. Without funding, it’s difficult to produce good scripts or meaningful films. If we had that support, we could correct many of the negative narratives currently dominating the screen.
Well-meaning Nigerians also need to support the industry. Film has the power to change a nation’s mindset and values—but only if it’s backed with the right resources.
What support is available for actors and actresses as they grow older?
Sadly, we don’t belong to any structured pension scheme. There’s no formal support system for aged actors. Most of us simply depend on whatever our children can provide. This is why many elderly actors struggle, and some are forced to beg. The industry must urgently establish a welfare or pension structure for its members.