Veteran actor and film producer Azeez Taofeek Alade has urged the Nigerian Government to increase its financial support for filmmakers to enhance the quality of movie production in Nigeria.
Alade, who has spent 30 years in the Nigerian film industry since beginning his career with the Ifepade Theatre Group in 1996, described inadequate funding as one of the major challenges facing Nollywood practitioners.
He noted that producers require substantial financial resources to successfully execute their projects, adding that greater government support would be welcomed by industry stakeholders.
“If the government of Nigeria looks our way with full support, we would be very glad, because any producer needs a huge amount of money for production,” Alade said.
He acknowledged, however, the current administration’s efforts to support actors and filmmakers in the industry.
“Yes, the recent government is helping some actors and filmmakers in Nollywood, and it is a welcome development,” he said.
The producer of the 2026 movie Ika (Wickedness) also expressed confidence in the future of Nigeria’s film industry. Despite the challenges in the sector, he said filmmakers were making considerable progress.
“We thank God for where we are now because we are doing great things every day. In a few months, something great is coming again. In the next five years, my brand is coming out in a very dynamic way,” he said.
Having witnessed the development of Nollywood firsthand, Alade recalled how people once mocked his ambition to become a prominent figure in indigenous cinema. Despite the early criticism, he continued to pursue his passion and eventually established himself in the industry.
His production career, which spans more than two decades, began with Gbafun in 2005. He later produced Alhaji Agba in 2008, Ododolowo in 2010 and Edan in 2015.
“I believe God can take control of any situation. That is why I always believe that whenever any challenge happens, it is part of life,” he said.
As an actor, Alade has appeared in several productions, including Owomalu, Obanikoro, Esugbayi Eleko, Dalemo, Majala and Afarawe, directed by Musbau Olashupo.
Although filmmaking in Nigeria comes with various financial and logistical challenges, Alade said he remained hopeful and relied on his faith during difficult times. He noted that he believed every challenge was part of life and that God could take control of any situation.
He also advised young creatives hoping to build careers in Nollywood to remain patient and determined, stressing that success requires consistency and perseverance.
The Nation
