VIDEO: Why Yoruba movies dominate cinema, digital platforms over Igbo — Francis Duru

Nollywood actor Francis Duru has criticized the declining representation of Igbo-centric movies and cultural narratives in modern Nigerian cinema. Speaking with Gbam on Yan Content Factory's YouTube channel, Duru lamented that Yoruba filmmakers have successfully created a market presence while Igbo filmmakers have not. He argued that Yoruba stakeholders have effectively organized, invested strategically, and protected their cultural heritage, while Igbo stakeholders have not.

Duru called upon Igbo filmmakers and investors to learn from their Yoruba counterparts and not harbor resentment towards them. He lamented the loss of prominent Igbo historical figures and literary traditions in contemporary cinema, noting that filmmakers from other regions are now capitalizing on these narratives. Duru attributed the decline to early Nollywood producers approaching film production as a merchant mindset without long-term vision or artistic passion, prioritizing short-term financial gains over professionalization.

He noted that the nostalgia for classic Nollywood films was due to their adherence to rigorous procedures and ethical standards that are lacking in modern productions. Duru urged veteran Nollywood creators to lead by example, restore fundamental standards, and professionalize the industry to ensure its continued growth and success.