Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan joined industry leaders at a US Consulate-General event in Lagos that examined Nollywood’s role in shaping culture and strengthening ties between Nigeria and the United States.
The event, tagged Iseda, took place at Ouida House in Ikeja. It formed part of activities marking the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence.
US Consulate Highlights Cultural and Economic Links
Speaking at the event, Julie McKay, acting US consul general, said the initiative aims to strengthen cultural and business ties between both countries.
She noted that Nollywood’s growing presence on American streaming platforms creates opportunities for deeper collaboration and economic growth.
“This is a special year for the United States. It’s our 250th anniversary of independence, so we are calling the celebration Freedom 250. This event is part of that celebration,” she said.
“The reason we’re doing this is also cultural. The US and Nigeria are deeply connected culturally, but there’s also the commercial aspect. We’re focused on increasing two-way trade and investment between the US and Nigeria.
“Nigeria has the second-largest film industry, and Nigerians are streaming films on US platforms like YouTube, Prime Video and Netflix, which shows we’re already working together. We want to build on that and increase economic prosperity for both countries.”
Filmmakers Reflect on Nollywood’s Growth
Animator Damilola Solesi moderated a panel featuring filmmakers Kenneth Gyang, Shedrack Salami and Josh Olaoluwa. All four are alumni of US government exchange programmes.
Gyang said he feels fortunate to have witnessed Nollywood’s transformation over the years.
“I feel lucky to be among the filmmakers who witnessed both the early days of Nollywood and the new Nollywood. Nollywood started as an informal industry with little or no regulation, driven by people who were simply passionate about telling stories,” he said.
“In the early 2010s, we could hardly name three filmmakers whose films reached global audiences. I’ve witnessed the industry’s evolution from an informal sector that was often looked down on to one that has become more structured, with filmmakers now telling bold stories. That’s the biggest shift I’ve seen in the industry.”
Afolayan Advises Emerging Filmmakers
During a fireside chat, Afolayan urged aspiring filmmakers to work hard and build strong professional teams.
“Film is one of the hardest things to do. If you’re lazy, it isn’t the place for you. There’s the craft of filmmaking, and there’s the business of cinema,” he said.
“If you’re creative, you need the right people around you, such as an accountant, a publicist, and others who can help with the business side of filmmaking.”
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