Veteran Nollywood actor Gideon Okeke has criticized the Nigerian entertainment industry for what he perceives as the disproportionate global celebration of Afrobeats musicians at the expense of actors and filmmakers. In a passionate video posted on Instagram, Okeke questioned the lack of international recognition and endorsements for Nigerian films compared to music.
“You know how we carry our Afrobeat music on our head. Big three, big five, big this. We idolise and worship ourselves,” Okeke stated. He challenged top music stars to look beyond their circle and acknowledge their “cousins on the other side of the media hemisphere.”
Speaking partly in Pidgin English, Okeke pointed out the disparity, noting that while global figures like former US President Barack Obama regularly publish music playlists featuring Afrobeats, Nollywood receives no such prestigious endorsements. “Nigerian films never, ever move like that before,” he lamented.
He called for unity and mutual promotion within the creative industry, urging musicians and influencers to actively support and spotlight Nollywood talents. “Nobody owes you anything, and you don’t owe anybody anything,” he said, emphasizing that collective progress benefits all sectors.
Okeke’s comments have sparked a debate online about the visibility gap between Nigeria’s booming music industry and its prolific film sector, despite both being significant cultural exports.
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