Uzee Usman Points to Funding as Key Barrier for Kannywood
Nollywood and Kannywood filmmaker Uzee Usman has identified inadequate funding as the major challenge preventing Nigeria's Hausa-language film industry from reaching its full potential. Speaking on The Morayo Show, Usman explained that despite Kannywood having rich stories and a long history, the lack of sponsorship and investment continues to slow its growth.
"Despite being around for a while and having good stories, I think the major issue affecting Kannywood is the lack of sponsorship and investment," Usman said.
Wealthy Northerners Not Investing in Entertainment
Usman argued that wealthy northerners and politicians have not supported the entertainment industry as much as their counterparts in the South. This has created a major funding gap that affects production and expansion.
"Many northerners who are millionaires and politicians don't really believe in or invest in the entertainment industry the way people in the South do," he added.
Usman's Own Career Reflects Kannywood's Potential
Despite the challenges, Usman's career demonstrates what Kannywood can achieve. Born in Kaduna and hailing from Kwara State, he started as a makeup artist in 2003 before moving into filmmaking. He has produced award-winning projects including Oga Abuja and Maja, and worked on films such as Voiceless, Mustapha, Anikulapo, and A Tribe Called Judah.
Usman Advises Youths to Learn Skills
In related comments, Usman advised graduates and youths in Nigeria to learn practical skills rather than relying solely on government jobs. Speaking earlier, he noted that there are many people in the queue for government jobs, so graduates should learn skills like tailoring, carpentry, and blogging to put food on their tables.
