Nigerian actors not in mainstream of international film industry – AGN President Emeka Rollas

Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), recently shared insights on the current status of Nigerian actors in the international film industry. In an interview with QEDNG, Rollas acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigerian actors in breaking into the mainstream of global cinema.

Rollas pointed out that, currently, only Nigerians born or living abroad have been fortunate enough to participate in the international film industry. In his words, “How can they be? They cannot. How many films are shot in Hollywood that you will say you have Nollywood actors involved, apart from maybe indigenous Nigerians who have lived abroad or were born abroad?”

He emphasized that entering the mainstream of the international film industry is a formidable task, even with the affiliation of AGN with the International Federation of Actors (FIA) and a positive relationship with the Screen Actors Guild of America. Rollas highlighted the efforts being made by AGN, such as the AGN International Festival, to create opportunities for Nigerian actors to network and interact within the global film space.

Rollas expressed the need for Nigerian actors to be recognized by international filmmakers when filming in Nigeria. He stated, “We want to expose our actors so that while they are coming to Nigeria, they will not only say they are going to Nigeria to experience Nigeria, but they will also mention specific actors or actresses that they want to film with.”

While acknowledging the success of African films among Africans in the diaspora, Rollas emphasized that it is not enough. Drawing a parallel with Indian films, he highlighted that the appeal of films extends beyond their cultural origin. He stated, “Indian films are enjoyed by both Indians and us in Nigeria. That is to tell you the success of the industry.”