In a video shared on his Instagram page on Sunday, the actor questioned why Nigerian musicians enjoy widespread admiration and international endorsements, while actors, filmmakers and other stakeholders in Nollywood rarely receive similar attention or support.
Okeke noted that Afrobeat artistes are often elevated and celebrated as national icons, with fans and industry players openly idolising leading figures in the music scene. He argued that such admiration has not been extended to practitioners in the film industry, despite Nollywood’s size and influence.
Referencing prominent Nigerian musicians including Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido and Rema, the actor challenged music stars to publicly acknowledge and promote talents within Nollywood. According to him, such gestures could significantly boost the visibility and appreciation of Nigerian films and their creators.
He further questioned whether top musicians actively engage with Nigerian movies at all, suggesting that the lack of cross-industry support contributes to the limited international exposure of Nollywood productions, despite the global popularity of Afrobeat.
Okeke also drew comparisons with former United States President Barack Obama, whose annual publication of favourite music playlists has repeatedly elevated the profiles of featured artistes worldwide. He noted that Nigerian musicians have benefited immensely from such endorsements over the years.
In contrast, he lamented that Nigerian films and filmmakers have never enjoyed similar high-profile recognition or promotion, despite the volume of content produced annually by the industry.
The actor called on influential Nigerian musicians and entertainment figures to create platforms that spotlight Nollywood, including publishing annual lists highlighting outstanding Nigerian films, actors, actresses and producers, similar to how international figures promote music.
According to Okeke, the entertainment industry functions best when creatives across different sectors support one another, warning against a culture where a few enjoy the spotlight while others remain unacknowledged.
While acknowledging that individuals are not obligated to promote others, he maintained that collective growth ultimately benefits the entire industry. He concluded by expressing concern over what he described as a lack of unity among Nigerian creatives, stressing that Nollywood practitioners deserve greater recognition and support both locally and internationally.