If there was a magic wand to transform Nigeria’s vibrant film industry, Nollywood, Omotayo Inakoju believes it’s not about mystical tools but real change through action and advocacy. As a seasoned legal professional deeply entrenched in the workings of Nollywood, she envisions a future where key aspects are restructured for the betterment of all involved.
One of the critical areas that Inakoju highlights is the treatment of writers in Nollywood. Drawing comparisons with international standards, she expresses concern over the disparity in compensation and recognition for Nigerian writers. She emphasizes,
“No great film exists without a great script.”
Inakoju advocates for fairer deals that acknowledge writers as essential co-creators rather than mere service providers.
Moreover, transparency in financial matters within the industry is another pressing issue according to Inakoju. She criticizes the tendency among filmmakers to guard production costs while flaunting box office figures. In her view, openness about budgets and revenues can attract serious investors and lead to more informed decision-making processes within Nollywood.
In tackling the structural deficiencies of Nollywood, Inakoju stresses the need for standardized contracts and robust guilds that actively safeguard the rights of their members. She envisions a centralized database for rights management to streamline ownership verification processes and foster trust among producers and investors. By establishing transparent distribution channels and nurturing a supportive regulatory environment, Inakoju believes that Nollywood can elevate its reputation on both local and global stages.
Addressing a common trend where popularity overshadows talent in casting decisions, Inakoju warns against compromising artistic integrity for social media metrics. She questions whether prioritizing influencers over skilled actors ultimately undermines the quality and longevity of Nigerian cinema. Emphasizing the importance of balancing market appeal with artistic merit, she advocates for a recalibration towards recognizing and fostering true talent within the industry.
Omotayo Queen Inakoju’s insights stem from her extensive legal background and current role as Head of Legal at EbonyLife Limited, where she navigates intricate multinational film agreements daily. Her vision extends beyond individual preferences; it seeks to reshape Nollywood into a dynamic ecosystem that values creativity, transparency, and professionalism at its core.
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