‘Nollywood is worse than Nigerian politics’ — Tayo Faniran alleges

Nollywood actor Tayo Faniran has alleged that politics, favouritism and rigging are affecting the Nigerian film industry, claiming that talent alone does not determine how far professionals go in Nollywood.

Speaking on TVC Entertainment News, Faniran compared the challenges within the film industry to the political problems Nigerians face in the country.

According to the actor, the situation in Nollywood is even worse, with industry politics influencing opportunities and career progression.

“When you talk about the politics of our country, like government and all of that, and what we are complaining about today as citizens, in Nollywood we’re facing times ten of that,” he said.

Faniran further claimed that his career would have progressed much further if Nollywood operated strictly on talent.

“Someone like me, if Nollywood were to be strictly about talent, I should be far beyond where I am now,” he stated.

The actor also alleged that there is widespread rigging in the industry, claiming that some of the biggest names in Nollywood are not necessarily the most talented.

“Another thing is that there’s a lot of rigging going on. In the industry right now, the film producers that you guys see and you know as the biggest are not the most talented film producers. Same with director, same with actor. Awards are rigged too,” he said.

Faniran’s comments highlight his concerns about the role of industry politics, connections and other factors in determining recognition and career opportunities in Nollywood.