From Sunday Afolabi to Papa Ajasco: 10 Nigerian Stars Who Have Opened Up About Financial Struggles

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The gap between fame and financial security in Nollywood has become an increasingly difficult reality for many veteran actors. 

While these performers helped build Nigeria’s film industry and entertained audiences for decades, some are now struggling with financial hardship, medical bills and the absence of dependable social support.

Recent revelations involving veteran actors have brought the issue back into public discussion. Actors such as Sunday Afolabi, Abiodun Ayoyinka, Fatai Oodua (Lalude), Iya Gbonkan, Olusola Olaonipekun (Pariolodo), Ganiyu Oyeyemi (Baba Ogunjimi), Don Richard and Ganiu Nofiu (Alapini Osa) have experienced varying degrees of financial difficulty.

Some have had to sell personal belongings, depend on public transportation or seek assistance from members of the public to deal with serious challenges.

For many of these performers, the problem is not necessarily a lack of hard work. Rather, it reflects weaknesses that have existed within Nigeria’s entertainment industry for years. 

During the growth of Nollywood in the 1990s and early 2000s, actors were largely paid one-off fees for their appearances. 

Unlike some international entertainment industries, there was little provision for royalties or residual payments when films continued generating revenue long after their release.

Veteran actress Patience Ozokwor has previously drawn attention to this concern, while Jide Kosoko has also spoken about the damaging impact of piracy on the industry.

 Without reliable royalties, pensions or comprehensive health insurance, many older actors have had little protection against financial emergencies.

The situation also highlights the changing opportunities available to today’s entertainers. Streaming platforms, social media, endorsements and digital content have created additional income sources for contemporary performers that were largely unavailable to their predecessors.

However, charity and crowdfunding should not become the permanent solution. The Nigerian creative industry needs stronger systems that can protect its pioneers, including enforceable royalty arrangements, pension plans and accessible healthcare.

The veterans who helped establish Nollywood deserve more than applause and nostalgia. Their years of contribution should translate into lasting financial security and dignity.

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