In a candid and fiery social media post that has sparked widespread discussion within Nigeria's vibrant film industry, Nollywood actress Biodun Okeowo, better known by her stage name Omoborty, has openly criticized what she terms "unhealthy attitudes" among some of her colleagues. The actress, a seasoned figure in Yoruba-language cinema and mainstream Nollywood productions, highlighted a persistent issue: the reluctance of actors to support producers and fellow cast members, particularly when it comes to promoting completed films.
Omoborty's outburst centers on actors who eagerly participate in movie productions but suddenly become unavailable or uncooperative during the crucial promotion phase. She labeled this behavior as "wicked and unsupportive," emphasizing that no actor, regardless of their fame or status, is above the collective effort required to make a project successful. "No one is bigger than the work or the people who fund it," she stressed in her post, pointing out that producers often invest significant resources—financial, emotional, and time—into bringing stories to life on screen.
The actress went further to address what she described as a culture of stinginess when it comes to offering support. Omoborty revealed that she has personally gone out of her way to promote numerous films in which she did not even feature. "Supporting others costs nothing," she argued, noting that a simple repost, shoutout, or attendance at premieres can make a substantial difference in a movie's visibility and box office performance. In an industry where word-of-mouth and social media buzz play pivotal roles in driving audiences to cinemas or streaming platforms, such gestures of solidarity are invaluable, yet seemingly rare among some practitioners.
Delving deeper into the root causes, Omoborty attributed this lack of camaraderie to deeper issues like envy and "bad character." She explained that certain individuals in the industry view the success or progress of their peers not as a source of inspiration, but as a personal threat. This mindset, according to her, fosters unnecessary competition and undermines the collaborative spirit that Nollywood has long been celebrated for. "Envy has made some people see another person's progress as a threat rather than something to celebrate," she wrote, adding that this toxic dynamic continues to stifle growth, hinder meaningful collaborations, and prevent the industry from reaching its full potential on both local and international stages.
Omoborty's comments come at a time when Nollywood is experiencing both triumphs and challenges. The Nigerian film industry, often hailed as the second-largest in the world by volume of productions, has seen remarkable growth in recent years, with increased investments in cinema releases, international partnerships, and streaming deals. However, internal issues such as inadequate promotion, piracy, and fragmented support systems have often hampered individual projects from achieving commercial success. Many producers have echoed similar sentiments in the past, complaining about cast members who prioritize personal branding over collective success once filming wraps up.
This is not the first time industry insiders have raised alarms about the lack of mutual support. For instance, comedian and actor Ayo Makun (AY) previously lamented the absence of colleague endorsements during his own cinema releases, while filmmaker Omoni Oboli has called for greater unity among practitioners. Omoborty's voice adds to this growing chorus, but her direct and unfiltered approach—using strong words like "wicked" and highlighting personal experiences—has resonated particularly strongly, prompting reactions from fans and fellow celebrities alike.
In her post, Omoborty also subtly referenced her own recent experiences as a producer. Having taken a hiatus from active production for over a decade, she recently returned with a new project, which may have amplified her frustration with the prevailing attitudes. The actress, who has built a career on roles that often portray strong, curvaceous, and confident women (earning her the moniker "Omoborty," meaning "child with a big backside" in Yoruba), has transitioned into filmmaking and entrepreneurship. Her ventures include beauty and real estate businesses, showcasing her multifaceted talents beyond acting.
The broader implications of Omoborty's critique extend beyond individual grievances. In an era where social media algorithms dictate visibility, the unwillingness of high-profile actors to amplify their colleagues' work can doom even well-made films to obscurity. This is especially critical for independent producers who lack the marketing budgets of major studios. Moreover, in a competitive landscape dominated by platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and local services such as iROKOtv, collective promotion could elevate Nollywood's global standing, attracting more foreign investment and audience interest.
Fans have largely applauded Omoborty's boldness, with many commenting on her post to agree that reciprocity is essential for industry progress. Some have shared personal anecdotes of attending premieres only to see sparse turnout from cast members, while others praised her for leading by example through her own supportive actions. Critics, however, might argue that the demands of busy schedules or contractual obligations could explain some absences, but Omoborty counters this by insisting that basic online support requires minimal effort.
Ultimately, Omoborty's public call-out serves as a wake-up call for introspection within Nollywood. By fostering a culture of genuine support—where successes are celebrated collectively and promotions are prioritized—the industry can strengthen its foundations and ensure sustainable growth for all involved. As one of Nigeria's most enduring talents, with a career spanning decades and marked by resilience (including past controversies over industry practices), Omoborty's words carry weight. Her message underscores a simple yet profound truth: in the collaborative art of filmmaking, no one succeeds in isolation.
This incident highlights the human elements behind the glamour of Nollywood—ambition, rivalry, generosity, and the occasional pettiness—that mirror broader societal dynamics. As discussions continue online, it remains to be seen whether her colleagues will heed the call for change or if such issues will persist. For now, Omoborty's unapologetic stance has reignited conversations about unity, reminding everyone that true progress in the industry demands more than individual stardom; it requires a committed community.
