LAGOS, NIGERIA — Nollywood actor Zubby Michael has alleged that some industry executives deliberately avoid mentoring Igbo talents due to fears that nurturing such individuals could create rivals who might eventually overshadow them in the competitive movie industry.
The actor, who is one of Nollywood’s most recognizable faces and a prominent figure in the Eastern film scene, made the disclosure during a recent media interaction where he discussed the dynamics of power, mentorship, and ethnic bias in the Nigerian entertainment sector. According to Zubby Michael, the reluctance to support emerging Igbo actors is not born out of a lack of talent but out of a calculated strategy to limit competition from a group that has historically demonstrated significant potential.
“There are some executives in the industry who deliberately avoid helping Igbo talents because they are afraid. They see the talent, they see the drive, but they worry that if they give that person a platform, they will soon become a rival. So they block them instead of building them,” he said.
The actor also suggested that the industry’s power structure is often influenced by ethnic considerations, with certain executives preferring to promote talents from their own regions while sidelining others. This, he argued, has created an uneven playing field where talent alone is not enough to guarantee success. He called on stakeholders to adopt a more inclusive approach, emphasizing that the industry would benefit from a wider diversity of voices and perspectives.
The allegations have sparked debate among Nollywood stakeholders, with some praising Zubby Michael for speaking truth to power and others cautioning against framing industry challenges solely along ethnic lines. Some producers and directors have denied the claims, insisting that the industry is becoming more meritocratic, while others acknowledged that bias remains a reality but downplayed its extent.
Industry observers have noted that Nollywood, despite its status as one of the largest film industries in the world, has struggled with issues of representation and inclusion. While talents from various ethnic groups have found fame, the concentration of influence in the hands of a few has often limited the opportunities available to those outside established networks.
Zubby Michael’s remarks also reignite broader conversations about the role of mentorship in Nollywood. Many successful actors have credited their rise to the support of established figures who took a chance on them. However, critics argue that mentorship remains a privilege reserved for a select few, often tied to personal relationships rather than professional potential.
The actor concluded by urging the younger generation of Igbo talents not to be discouraged. “The talent is there. The hunger is there. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong. Keep pushing, keep working, and create your own path,” he said.
His comments have resonated with many aspiring actors in the East, who have taken to social media to share their own experiences of rejection and marginalization. The debate is expected to continue as the industry grapples with its internal politics and the challenge of building a more inclusive and equitable entertainment ecosystem.
