Lagos, Nigeria — Prominent Nigerian filmmaker Niyi Akinmolayan has ignited a storm of debate in Nollywood after publicly urging actors to resist signing contracts that prevent them from promoting other films. His remarks, shared on social media, immediately struck a chord across the industry, drawing sharp reactions from actors, producers, and fans alike.
Akinmolayan’s post questioned the fairness of exclusivity clauses that restrict performers from supporting projects outside their current commitments. Within hours, the conversation escalated, with actors condemning such contracts as “wicked,” filmmakers defending them as a matter of business strategy, and fans expressing confusion over why producers would expect exclusivity in a creative field built on collaboration.
The controversy has spotlighted long-standing tensions in Nollywood over labor practices and contractual obligations. While producers argue that exclusivity protects investments and marketing campaigns, critics say it stifles artistic freedom and undermines the growth of the industry.
Observers note that the debate reflects broader concerns about fairness and transparency in Nollywood’s rapidly expanding market. “This conversation is long overdue,” one industry insider remarked, emphasizing that the clash could pave the way for reforms in how contracts are negotiated and enforced.
Despite the disagreements, one point of consensus has emerged: Nollywood must adopt fairer practices to ensure that both actors and filmmakers thrive in an industry that continues to gain global recognition.
