Nollywood Actor Gideon Okeke Decries Lack of Support from Nigerian Music Stars
Nollywood actor Gideon Okeke has voiced strong concerns about the imbalance in how Nigerian creatives support each other, particularly between the music and film industries. In a video shared on his Instagram page on Sunday, January 25, 2026, Okeke highlighted a troubling disparity in recognition and promotion.
The Imbalance Between Music and Film Industry Support
Okeke explained that while Afrobeat musicians in Nigeria are celebrated, idolized, and promoted both locally and internationally, actors, filmmakers, and producers in Nollywood rarely enjoy the same level of backing from their peers. He pointed out that Nigerian artists proudly embrace titles like big three and big five, which signify their dominance and influence, yet very few extend similar energy towards Nollywood by recommending films or hyping actors and producers.
This lack of support persists even as streaming platforms like Netflix continue to showcase Nigerian films to global audiences, giving Nollywood increasing visibility beyond Africa. Okeke compared this to international practices, noting how global figures, including former United States President Barack Obama, openly promote music they enjoy. He suggested that if Nigerian music stars adopted the same approach towards Nollywood, the film industry could benefit from stronger public endorsement and wider appreciation.
Nollywood's Growth and Cultural Impact
Nollywood, often described as one of the largest film industries in the world, has grown rapidly over the past few decades, producing thousands of films annually and gaining recognition for its storytelling and cultural impact. Despite this success, Okeke's comments underscore a perceived gap in intra-industry solidarity that could hinder further progress.
Netizens React to Okeke's Video
Following the video's release, netizens shared mixed reactions on social media. Some defended the music industry's prominence, while others echoed Okeke's sentiments about Nollywood's challenges.
- @officialstormangel said: Music is spiritual. Even the Bible records that music (praise and worship) is the most appeasable act that moves God. Plus music can be consumed, re-consumed timelessly but how many times can one actually watch a movie? 4, 5 times max.
- @realkingjosh commented: Public validation isn't something to be demanded, and certainly not from the wrong audience. Influence doesn't work that way. The musicians you referenced weren't 'rated' or 'made' by actors or by fellow celebrities.
- @saidu_benzizi_ wrote: Life is seasonal. Nollywood have had their prime and those who were lucky and find grace enjoyed every bit of their fame then and the dynamics has now change. Remember king reigns forever. It afrobeats time now let them enjoy their moment.
- @xahra__tee reacted: Na because all of una don turn producer, same storyline. Una Dey do the same boring thing. People that should be acting are producers and YouTube TV??? E kuku spoil everything.
- @kaffy_anike said: Nobody hypes Nollywood but Funke Akindele film dey do 2 billion +. You wan chop hype?
Background on Gideon Okeke's Industry Criticisms
This is not the first time Gideon Okeke has spoken out on industry issues. Previously, he engaged in a dispute with colleague Jim Iyke over film budgets, alleging that Iyke's movie Sin could not have genuinely consumed the reported N9 billion budget given by Prime Video. Okeke claimed that Iyke ought to refund Prime Video for any allegedly squandered funds, highlighting ongoing tensions within Nollywood.
Okeke's latest remarks continue to spark debate about the dynamics of support and recognition in Nigeria's entertainment sector, emphasizing the need for greater collaboration among creatives to boost the country's cultural exports globally.
