Award-winning filmmaker Niyi Akinmolayan has urged Nollywood actors to avoid signing contracts that restrict them from promoting other local films, warning that such clauses stifle the growth of the industry.

In a statement on social media, the CEO of Anthill Studios acknowledged actors’ financial needs but implored them to reject deals that limit their ability to support multiple projects. He stressed that actors are essential contributors to Nollywood’s expansion and should not impose limitations on themselves.

The Problem with Exclusivity Clauses

Exclusivity clauses, increasingly included in cinema and streaming deals, typically bar actors from publicly supporting or appearing in promotional materials for competing Nigerian projects for weeks or months surrounding a film’s release.

Akinmolayan explained that while financial pressures make such terms tempting, the long-term harm to the industry outweighs short-term gains.

He wrote:

“Actors… I know you all need money. But please stop signing contracts that tell you not to promote other films you are in. Nollywood is not that rich (far from it), and you are worth more… you are a part of the necessary ingredients for growth in the industry. Don’t stifle yourself.”