The Harsh Reality of Nollywood: Halima Abubakar’s Plea and the Industry’s Financial Struggles

The recent emotional plea by Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar for financial assistance has once again highlighted the precarious financial situation many actors in Nigeria’s film industry face. In a heartfelt video shared on her Instagram page, Abubakar, who appeared visibly unwell, disclosed her ongoing health challenges and the lack of support from her colleagues. She lamented, “It’s over six years since I have appeared in a movie. What else do you guys want? Do you want me to die or kill myself?”

Abubakar’s situation is not isolated. Veteran actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, faced a severe health crisis in late 2023 that led to the amputation of his leg. Despite his years of contribution to Nollywood, Okafor had to appeal to the public for financial support to cover his medical expenses. Similarly, Ernest Asuzu, a once-thriving actor, was seen begging on the streets before his unfortunate passing, underscoring the severe financial instability faced by many in the industry.

The Economics of Nollywood: Big Box Office, Little PayNollywood is one of the largest film industries in the world, producing over 2,500 movies annually. The industry generates billions of naira in revenue, yet the economic reality for many of its actors remains grim. Unlike Hollywood, where actors receive residual payments for reruns, streaming, and syndication, most Nollywood actors are paid per project, with no long-term financial security.

The industry’s business model is largely built on quick production cycles and low budgets. Many movies are financed by independent producers who prioritize cost-cutting, leaving little room for competitive actor salaries. While top-tier actors like Genevieve Nnaji and Funke Akindele command higher fees, the majority of actors work for modest sums that barely sustain them between projects. The average Nollywood actor earns between ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 per movie, with some earning as low as ₦50,000 for lesser roles.

The Impact of Netflix and other Streaming Services have disrupted the Nollywood ecosystem, bringing increased international exposure and investment. However, while these platforms offer more distribution opportunities, they have not significantly improved actor remuneration. Many streaming deals favor producers and directors, with actors still receiving one-time payments instead of residuals. On the positive side, Netflix Originals featuring Nollywood films have provided actors with more global visibility and occasional higher pay scales, but these opportunities remain limited to a select few.

Industry Reforms and the Need for ChangeMany industry insiders argue that Nollywood needs systemic reforms to ensure fair remuneration and financial security for actors. Proposals include:

• Unionizing for Better Pay: Unlike Hollywood, where the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) protects actors’ financial interests, Nollywood lacks a unified guild with strong bargaining power. Establishing an effective actors’ union could help standardize wages and benefits.
• Profit-Sharing Agreements: Introducing contracts that allow actors to earn from a movie’s success can create a more sustainable financial model.
• Health and Retirement Funds: The industry needs structured health insurance and pension schemes to prevent actors from relying on public donations during medical emergencies.

Profile

Halima AbubakarHalima Abubakar is a Nigerian actress known for her versatility and captivating performances in Nollywood. She began her acting career in the early 2000s and quickly became a household name, featuring in films such as White Hunters, Men in Love, and Secret Shadows. Over the years, she built a reputation as a talented actress with a strong on-screen presence. However, in recent years, she has faced severe health challenges, which have sidelined her from acting and contributed to her current financial struggles.

Despite her contributions to Nollywood, her situation underscores the lack of financial security for many actors in the industry.

The struggles of Halima Abubakar, John Okafor, and many others serve as reminders of the harsh economic realities in Nollywood. Despite being a billion-naira industry, the absence of structured remuneration, residuals, and financial safety nets leaves actors vulnerable. If Nollywood is to sustain its global dominance, it must address these systemic issues and ensure its stars are financially secure beyond their acting years.

Subscribe to Notifications