According to a report published by The Nation on Saturday, August 29, 2026, veteran Nollywood actor Francis Duru has raised concerns about the diminishing presence of Igbo-centered films and cultural narratives in Nigeria’s contemporary film industry. He noted that stories rooted in Igbo history, traditions, language and identity are not receiving the same level of visibility as they once did, particularly in cinemas and on major international streaming platforms.Speaking during an interview on Gbam, Duru said Yoruba filmmakers had achieved greater prominence through deliberate organization, sustained investment and a clear commitment to presenting their culture to wider audiences.
Their progress, he explained, was not accidental; it resulted from filmmakers working collectively, attracting financial support and consistently producing stories that reflected Yoruba experiences and values.Duru maintained that the success of Yoruba-language films should be viewed as an important lesson, rather than as a reason for resentment among stakeholders in the Igbo film industry.
He urged Igbo filmmakers and cultural leaders to take greater responsibility for promoting their own heritage. “If you don’t protect your own, if you don’t project your own, who will do it?” Duru asked.The actor said it was particularly disappointing that, despite the depth and richness of Igbo history and culture, only a limited number of films showcasing that heritage could be found on major global streaming platforms. He argued that Yoruba filmmakers had created more opportunities for themselves by cooperating, attracting investors and intentionally supporting productions that preserved and promoted their cultural identity.Duru also criticized what he described as the strongly business-oriented approach adopted by some pioneers of the early Nollywood industry.
In his view, many producers focused primarily on immediate financial returns instead of developing durable industry structures, maintaining professional standards or investing in the long-term artistic growth of filmmakers and productions.
“They were just merchandising. Not passion. Their primary goal was simply to make money,” he stated.The actor also expressed concern about the decline of professional ethics in film production. He contrasted the deliberate, methodical approach associated with classic Nollywood movies with the increasingly hurried production processes he sees in the industry today.Duru explained that earlier films often benefited from extensive auditions, carefully considered casting, rehearsals and detailed preparation before filming began.
In his view, that level of planning strengthened the performances, improved the storytelling and contributed to the creation of memorable films that continued to resonate with audiences.However, he emphasized that he does not regard the growing number of filmmakers and content creators as a threat to established practitioners.
Rather, he believes their participation has broadened the Nigerian entertainment industry, creating more opportunities for production and expanding the range of stories being told. He urged veterans and industry leaders to accept responsibility for rebuilding professional standards, mentoring emerging practitioners and ensuring that experience is passed on to the next generation.According to Duru, Igbo cinema can recover a stronger position on the global stage if stakeholders make deliberate investments in their culture, present authentic stories and establish clear professional principles. These efforts, he said, would help preserve the identity of Igbo filmmaking while creating a foundation that future generations can develop and sustain.
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