Actor Francis Odega has said he helped build Nollywood before it became the big industry it is today.
Speaking on the Where Is The Lie podcast, he reflected on his role as a pioneer and shared his views on the state of Nigerian films now.
Francis, who has worked in the Nigerian film industry for about 30 years, said that in the past the industry produced memorable films from single scripts. “Back then, one script would give us one unforgettable movie. But now, one script can give you seven bad movies, and that’s not right. Nollywood back then is far better than the Nollywood of today,” he said.
The actor said he was part of the group that helped build the industry before it became widely known as Nollywood. Performers first organised under the Nigerian Actors Guild before the group later became the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria. “I was among of the people who made Nollywood… I have been in the movie industry for 30 years,” he explained.
Francis Odega is known for his work in comedy and for a viral film clip that brought him international attention. He graduated from Ambrose Alli University with a degree in economics and has since appeared in more than 150 films. His roles include parts in titles such as House of Gold and Osuofia in London. He has also been involved in stand‑up comedy and has received recognition at events including the Ghana Movie Awards.
