Ali Nuhu Reflects on Nollywood Division and Personal Experience With Discrimination
Renowned actor and philanthropist Ali Nuhu, a leading figure in both Nollywood and Kannywood, has shared a personal account of discrimination within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, highlighting the growing regional and cultural divides.
In a recent interview, Nuhu reminisced about the early days of Nollywood, which he described as a time of unity and collaboration.
"In the early '90s down to 2000, we all came together to make beautiful movies from stories that crossed every socio-political line," he said.
However, he expressed concern over the current state of the industry, citing what he called "three imaginary lines" that now divide Nollywood along regional lines, driven by unhealthy competition.
Recounting a painful experience on a film set in Asaba, Nuhu revealed how a derogatory remark from a prominent actress left a lasting impact.
"I once went to Asaba for a crucial job, and I overheard a well-known colleague whisper and call me 'Aboki' to her friend," he disclosed.
While "Aboki" translates to "friend" in Hausa, Nuhu noted that it is often used in a derogatory sense in some southern contexts, implying low intelligence.
Despite the insult, he chose to channel his energy into building the Hausa-language film industry, now known as Kannywood.
"I came home and gathered the Northern movie stakeholders to start the Kannywood project," he said. "Alhamdulillah! We are gradually getting there, Insha Allah."
Nuhu’s experience underscores the need for greater inclusivity in Nollywood and serves as a testament to his resilience and commitment to bridging cultural gaps in the entertainment industry.