Award-Winning ex-Leadership Entertainment and Tourism Editor, PR Specialist Anthony Ada Abraham Discusses Growth in the Music and Movie Industry And Calls for Professionalism In Nollywood
In a recent exclusive interview, the award-winning ex-Leadership newspaper’s Entertainment and Tourism Editor, who doubles as a Public Relations specialist, shed light on the impressive growth witnessed in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, particularly the music and movie sectors. With over a decade of experience in the industry, this media professional has seen firsthand how Nollywood and Afrobeats have transformed from local movements into globally recognized industries. However, alongside this rise, the editor emphasized the pressing need for professionalism within Nollywood to ensure sustainable success.
The Growth of Nigerian Entertainment
According to the editor, Nigeria’s entertainment industry has experienced exponential growth over the past few years. With Afrobeats artists dominating international charts and Nollywood films streaming on global platforms like Netflix, the industry’s influence is undeniable. “The Nigerian music industry, especially, has become a force to be reckoned with globally. You see artists like Burna Boy, Davido, and Tiwa Savage collaborating with international acts, while Nollywood has had its productions featured in international film festivals,” he remarked.
“The world is paying attention to Nigerian creatives, and the market is rapidly expanding, not just within Africa but across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. This presents both opportunities and challenges.”
The Role of Nollywood in the Nigerian Economy
Nollywood, now the second-largest film industry globally in terms of production volume, continues to attract investors. The editor noted that with increasing local and international funding, Nigerian films are improving in terms of quality, visual effects, and storytelling. However, he stressed that despite this growth, the industry must not lose sight of the importance of professionalism and discipline, particularly from the actors themselves.
“One of the major challenges Nollywood faces, despite its growth, is the need for actors to approach the craft with more professionalism,” Anthony Ada Abraham explained. “The industry is becoming more competitive, and expectations are higher, both from the local audience and international viewers. Producers are investing more in quality, but this needs to be met with an equal commitment from actors to deliver outstanding performances, adhere to industry standards, and work with ethics.”
Why Professionalism is Crucial for Nollywood’s Future
When asked why professionalism is critical, the editor drew parallels with Hollywood and other global movie industries. “In Hollywood, Bollywood, and even the rising South Korean film industry, actors approach their roles with a high degree of preparation, training, and discipline. They understand that they are not just artists but also ambassadors of their country’s culture and industry. Nollywood actors must adopt this mindset to maintain credibility on the global stage,” the editor insisted.
Professionalism, he emphasized, goes beyond delivering lines convincingly; it includes punctuality on set, a deep understanding of the script, collaboration with directors and crew, and a strong work ethic. “We have seen instances where lack of preparation from actors has delayed productions or resulted in subpar films. Nollywood is evolving, and it can no longer afford such setbacks if it wants to remain competitive internationally.”
Looking to the Future
Despite the challenges, the Anthony expressed optimism about Nollywood’s future. With more young filmmakers entering the industry, there is hope for a new wave of creativity and professionalism that could further propel Nollywood into global prominence. He urged actors, particularly upcoming talents, to invest in their craft by undergoing proper training, attending acting workshops, and working with industry professionals who can help them hone their skills.
“The future of Nollywood is bright, but only if we focus on continuous improvement and uphold high standards. Our stories are unique, and we have a massive platform to tell them. But professionalism must be the foundation of everything we do if we want the world to take us seriously.”
As Nigeria’s entertainment industry continues its upward trajectory, this editorial voice serves as a reminder that true success requires not just talent but also a commitment to excellence, discipline, and professionalism. The world is watching, and Nollywood has the potential to shine even brighter on the global stage—if its stars rise to the challenge.
