‘Why Yoruba now dominate Nollywood created by Igbos’ – Francis Duru
Francis Duru, a veteran actor in Nigeria’s Nollywood film industry, has discussed the current dominance of Yoruba filmmakers in the sector, despite the significant contributions of Igbo filmmakers in the industry’s early days.
Duru acknowledged that while Yoruba figures like Herbert Ogunde were instrumental in establishing the film industry in Nigeria during the 1950s, it was the introduction of home video by Igbo filmmakers in the 1990s and early 2000s that marked the emergence of Nollywood as it is known today.
According to Duru, the Yoruba community has surpassed the Igbo in the film industry due to their organizational skills and support for one another. He emphasized the importance of community collaboration, stating, “The Yorubas epitomize the saying, ‘Charity begins at home.’ We need to learn from them. If you don’t protect and project your own, who will do it?”
He pointed out that while Igbo filmmakers laid the groundwork for Nollywood, their presence on platforms such as Netflix is minimal compared to their Yoruba counterparts. “Igbos failed to learn because of their individualistic mentality,” Duru explained, warning against a self-centered approach that overlooks the need for collaboration and expansion.
Duru noted that many early Nollywood pioneers were traders who recognized the potential of the industry and united to develop it. He remarked that the Yoruba community invested in their own talent and ideas, ensuring their narratives were represented and preserved.
He urged the Igbo community not to harbor resentment toward the successes of the Yoruba. “These are people who saw their own and protected their own,” he said. “What happened to you? Igbos have many great men in Nigeria.”
Reflecting on the lack of cinematic representation of Igbo historical figures, Duru lamented that there is a shortage of films celebrating their heritage and noted that even Yoruba writers are crossing over to tell Igbo stories, sometimes inaccurately portraying their culture.
Duru’s comments highlight ongoing discussions about representation and community dynamics within the Nigerian film industry.
