Jaiye Kuti Laments Declining Support Among Nollywood Practitioners

Nollywood actress Jaiye Kuti has raised concerns over what she described as a growing lack of support among members of the Nigerian film industry, warning that the trend is weakening relationships and collaboration among practitioners.

Kuti made the remarks during an appearance on the *Oyinmomo* podcast, where she said many actors and filmmakers face similar challenges but often choose to remain silent rather than address them openly.

According to the actress, this culture of silence is creating a disconnect within the industry, making it increasingly difficult for professionals to stand by one another during difficult moments.

“Our relationship is gradually breaking down… Everybody is just acting like it’s okay. How is it okay?” she said.

She explained that film production in Nigeria requires significant financial investment, with producers under constant pressure to recover costs through cinema releases and distribution. Despite these challenges, Kuti noted that many people, including fellow practitioners, do not fully appreciate the realities behind filmmaking.

The actress also highlighted the gap between public perception and the lived experiences of entertainers, noting that social media often presents a curated version of reality.

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“The people you’re emulating and looking at as an example, do you really want to know them?” she asked, suggesting that the glamorous images seen online rarely reflect the struggles behind the scenes.

Kuti recalled her personal experience after some cinemas removed her movie from their schedules, a development she said had financial and professional implications.

She revealed that despite speaking out publicly about the issue, she received little to no support from colleagues, many of whom had faced similar situations in the past.

“Not one actor stood by me or went to those cinemas or even supported me, despite the fact that we’re all going through the same thing,” she said.

The actress contrasted this lack of solidarity with what she described as superficial gestures within the industry, noting that colleagues who failed to support her during challenges were quick to celebrate personal milestones.

“But if I celebrate my birthday, the next day they’d wish me a happy birthday,” she added.

Kuti said the experience prompted her to reconsider her own interactions, including withdrawing from routine social gestures within the industry.

Her comments have added to ongoing conversations about collaboration, competition, and welfare within Nollywood, as stakeholders continue to call for stronger support systems and unity among practitioners.

Industry observers say fostering a culture of mutual support could help address common challenges and strengthen the long-term growth of Nigeria’s film sector.