Speaking on the podcast Curiosity Made Me Ask, hosted by Isbae U, Ozokwor explained that many performers are limited to a one-time payment for their film roles, regardless of how often the productions continue to generate revenue.
One-Time Payment Model Creates Financial Strain
“The problem why you see us beg is because they don’t give us royalties. We just work and toil so hard, and then that peanut, that money you gave us on board to come and shoot for you, is the only thing we get,” she said. Ozokwor emphasized that this system leaves many actors financially vulnerable despite years of contribution to Nollywood.
Lessons from Developed Film Industries
The actress contrasted Nollywood’s model with practices in more developed film industries, where actors receive ongoing royalties from their work. She noted that even minor performers in other countries continue to earn long after production wraps, and royalties often extend to their families after death, ensuring long-term financial security.
Turning to Alternative Platforms
Ozokwor added that the lack of residual income has led many Nigerian actors to explore alternative platforms like YouTube, which allow them to earn directly from their content. “That’s why everyone is running to YouTube,” she said, highlighting a growing shift in the industry toward self-generated revenue streams.
Her comments have reignited discussions about the need for a structured royalties system in Nollywood to ensure that performers benefit fairly from their work over the long term.