Veteran filmmaker Kunle Afolayan sparked conversation when he addressed the issue of inflated box office figures in Nollywood. Speaking candidly to the press, Afolayan said, “There is no competition. I don’t want ₦2 billion or ₦1 billion in the cinema that I won’t be able to collect ₦10 million.”

The statement, widely interpreted as a subtle jab at certain filmmakers known for promoting inflated numbers, highlights Afolayan’s insistence on realistic revenue reporting and transparency in the Nigerian film industry.
Afolayan, celebrated for directing films such as Citation, The Figurine, and Aníkúlápó, has long advocated for sustainable filmmaking practices. At the premiere, he emphasised the need for honest promotion and measurable success, rather than chasing inflated figures that often fail to reflect actual earnings.

The veteran director also encouraged colleagues to focus on creating quality content and sustainable revenue streams, saying: “Go ahead and create alternative promotion or marketing strategies for promoting your business, or hire a company to handle it. You can do it! The opportunities are endless, and everyone has their own path. I’m focused on mine, and I have faith in God’s plan for me.”
Afolayan’s remarks sparked reactions across social media, with fans praising his candidness and professionalism. Some speculated he was indirectly responding to filmmakers who prioritise spectacle over substance, while others applauded his emphasis on long-term growth and integrity in Nollywood.
The premiere also saw responses from fellow filmmakers.

Funke Akindele, widely seen as the subject of Afolayan’s comments, responded with her own message on social media: “I’m not the one hindering your progress. Ka rin ka po, yiye ni n ye ni. If you can’t beat them or join them, create your own path. No allow jealousy burn you. The sky is so big for everybody to fly. Eyin Werey jojo!!!”
Her statement was interpreted as a calm and supportive reply, urging filmmakers to focus on their individual journeys rather than engaging in rivalry.
Industry analysts note that Afolayan’s critique underscores broader challenges in Nollywood, including unreliable ticket reporting, marketing gimmicks, and disparities between claimed and actual box office earnings. By speaking out, he is calling attention to the need for structural reforms in film distribution and transparent accounting practices.

Despite the pointed comments, Afolayan remained professional, taking time to thank the cast, crew, and cinema operators involved in the premiere. The film itself is expected to perform steadily, reflecting his philosophy of prioritising sustainable success over inflated headlines.
As Nollywood continues to expand globally, particularly through streaming and international collaborations, filmmakers like Kunle Afolayan are championing a new approach: transparency, quality, and long-term growth, proving that box office credibility can be as important as creative acclaim.