Gideon Okeke Nollywood criticism highlights disparity as actor urges musicians and influencers to promote Nigerian film internationally

Actor Gideon Okeke has criticised the entertainment industry for prioritising Afrobeats musicians over actors, actresses and filmmakers, questioning why Nigerian films receive little global recognition compared with the nation’s music stars.

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In a video shared on Instagram, Okeke urged influential figures to acknowledge Nollywood talent, suggesting that global endorsements and international exposure remain disproportionately directed at musicians.

“You know how we carry our Afrobeat music on our head. Big three, big five, big this. We idolise and worship ourselves,” he said, highlighting the contrast between the attention given to music and the neglect of film professionals.

Okeke challenged industry stakeholders, asking what would happen if prominent musicians looked beyond their circle to celebrate the contributions of actors and filmmakers.

He noted that Nigerian films have never received the same level of international promotion as Afrobeat, citing former US President Barack Obama’s annual music endorsements as a point of comparison.

“Since when Obama sit down for presidential seat, na every year Obama dey endorse una… Nigerian films never, ever move like that before,” he said.

The actor also called for greater unity within the creative industry, stressing that collective progress benefits all participants.

“Nobody owes you anything, and you don’t owe anybody anything,” he said, urging entertainers to support one another.

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Okeke’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions in the industry about international visibility for Nollywood, which remains one of the largest film sectors in the world yet struggles to secure the same global endorsements and recognition as Nigerian music.