“Struggles and Stardom: Patience Ozokwor Unveils Nollywood’s Financial Hardships”

Renowned Nollywood star, Patience Ozokwor also referred to as Mama G, has disclosed the monetary difficulties encountered by numerous performers in the Nigerian film sector, attributing the issue to the absence of royalties for their efforts.

During her participation on the podcast/show “Curiosity Made Me Ask”, hosted by Isbae U, the actress mentioned that many artists merely receive a single payment for the films they partake in, no matter how consistently the movies continue to yield income.

She stated that this is the reason some actors are compelled to publicly solicit assistance despite having spent years in the industry.

“The reason you see us pleading is that they don’t provide us royalties. We just labor so diligently, and then that meager amount, that money you offered us upfront to come and act for you, is the sole thing we obtain,” she articulated.

Ozokwor likened the scenario to what occurs in more advanced film industries, where actors persistently earn from their contributions long after the shooting has concluded.

“Go and observe the least well-known actors in developed nations. Every job they undertake brings them income daily throughout their lives.”

She further remarked that in those nations, royalties persist even after an actor’s passing, aiding their families in maintaining financial stability.

“Even after they are no longer here, their families continue to benefit from that. We are still putting in our efforts.”

The veteran actress highlighted that the scarcity of residual earnings has driven many Nigerian actors to seek out alternative platforms, especially YouTube, where they can profit directly from their creations.

“That’s why everyone is flocking to YouTube,” she said.