After many years in Nollywood, I’m still not a rich man – Jide Kosoko

Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has shared his financial reality. He revealed that fame has not brought him wealth, despite his long career.

In an interview on The Honest Bunch podcast, the 71-year-old actor spoke candidly. He feels comfortable but does not see himself as wealthy by Nigerian standards.

“I have been in this industry for a long time,” he said. “I thank God I can eat three square meals. But can I claim to be rich? No.”

Kosoko also discussed piracy's impact on the Nigerian movie industry. He believes stricter penalties are needed to deter offenders.

“The punishment for piracy is still not strong enough,” he stated. “A person who has pirated works for years is a billionaire. How much do you want to fine him?”

He suggested that fines are ineffective against wealthy pirates. “If you fine him N500 million, he will pay from his profits,” he explained.

Instead, he proposed a 20-year jail sentence with no option of a fine. “This would make people think twice about piracy,” he added.

Jide Kosoko began acting as a child in 1964 with Makanjuola. He remains a respected figure in Nollywood and advocates for better industry protections.