Francis Duru addresses Yoruba film dominance over Igbo in Nigerian cinema and streaming platforms
Nollywood actor Francis Duru has voiced concerns regarding the diminishing presence of Igbo-centric films and cultural narratives in Nigerian cinema. Speaking on the Yan Content Factory YouTube channel, Duru urged Igbo filmmakers and investors to emulate their Yoruba counterparts, who he noted currently dominate major cinematic releases and global streaming platforms like Netflix. He attributed this disparity to a failure by Igbo stakeholders to adapt, invest strategically, and protect their regional stories, emphasizing the Yoruba community's success in organizing, mobilizing capital, and safeguarding their cultural ecosystem. Duru advised Igbo stakeholders against resentment, instead encouraging reflection on their own strategic shortcomings. He also lamented the underutilization of prominent Igbo historical figures and literary traditions, observing that creators from other regions are now telling these stories. Duru explained that many early Igbo film pioneers approached production with a "trader mindset," prioritizing immediate financial gain and control over long-term structural expansion or artistic passion, which led to their eventual loss of influence. He contrasted this with earlier Nollywood productions, which he said adhered to rigorous procedures, ethics, and artistic discipline. While acknowledging that modern content creation expands industry frontiers, Duru called on veteran custodians to lead by example and reinstate fundamental standards.
