Veteran Nollywood star Patience Ozokwo has revealed why many actors in Nollywood struggle financially, blaming the lack of royalties for their long-term hardship.
Speaking candidly, Ozokwo said actors are only paid for their time on set, with no earnings from film profits, streaming, or international distribution. This, she explained, forces performers into a cycle of constant work just to survive, unlike their counterparts in global film industries who benefit from residual income.
She also pointed to a growing shift, with many actors turning to platforms like YouTube to create content and generate independent income, bypassing traditional systems.
Her remarks have ignited fresh debate about fair pay and industry reform, with calls for a royalty system that could secure actors’ futures and boost the overall growth and quality of Nollywood.
