In a bold assertion that has sparked conversation within the film industry, prominent media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo claims that Nigeria’s most influential filmmakers hail predominantly from the Yoruba ethnic group.
Jideonwo’s comments shed light on the evolving landscape of Nigerian cinema, suggesting a significant cultural integration among various groups.
“What has happened is that the Yoruba filming culture has merged itself into the other groups that are leading again,” Jideonwo stated.
He emphasized the prominence of Yoruba films in the current market.
He further challenged the representation of other languages in mainstream streaming services, asking pointedly, “Can you name one Hausa-language movie on Netflix or Amazon? Or can you name one Igbo-language movie on Netflix or Amazon? The closest was… Genevieve’s ‘Lionheart’ many many years ago.”
Jideonwo concluded his remarks by highlighting the success of Yoruba films, noting that “only Yoruba movies are able to exist on Amazon on Netflix and become mainstream cultural hits.”
His observations raise important questions about representation and the dynamics of cultural influence in Nigeria’s vibrant film sector.
