“Nollywood today is slightly distorted”- Segun Arinze

Segun Arinze's Concerns About Nollywood

Segun Arinze, a popular Nollywood actor, has shared his worries about the film industry. He sees major differences between today’s Nollywood and its earlier years.

In an interview with JoyNews, Arinze acknowledged that Nollywood is still progressing. However, he believes its legacy has become somewhat distorted. “Even though it is slightly distorted today, we are still on track,” he said.

Arinze emphasized that Nollywood is moving away from authentic African storytelling. He feels this shift is eroding the industry’s originality. “We are losing originality,” he stated.

He explained that current narratives often stray from traditional values. “The perception of Nollywood is changing,” he noted. He added that stories now lack the authenticity they once had.

Arinze used traditional African marriage rites as an example. He contrasted them with Western-style white weddings. While white weddings are European traditions, many Africans have adopted them.

He argued that this cultural shift also affects Nollywood. Foreign influences are overshadowing indigenous storytelling more and more. “The kind of stories being told now are making Nollywood lose its originality,” he reiterated.

Arinze concluded by saying we don’t need to abandon our traditions for foreign cultures.