Film director and treasurer of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Lagos Chapter, Oghenenyerhovwo Nana, popularly known as Ny Nana, has called on stakeholders in Nollywood to give directors the recognition and compensation they deserve.
Speaking on the evolving role of the Guild, Nana said, “Visibility is no longer enough. Directors need to be recognized as the backbone of the industry and compensated accordingly. The DGN is evolving into not just a community but a bargaining force-one that advocates for fair wages, royalties, and credit recognition both locally and internationally.
“In the future, I see us moving toward stronger legal protections and professional standards that place directors at the center of negotiations.”
Nana, who began her career as a radio and television presenter before venturing into film, also stressed the importance of financial discipline in sustaining the industry.
“For me, it’s about discipline and perspective,” she said.
“As filmmakers, our creativity drives us, but as Treasurer, I recognize that sustainability in our industry comes from financial accountability. I approach Guild finances with the same attention to detail I bring to storytelling-every number must serve a purpose, just as every scene must serve the story.”
She added, “I balance both roles by separating passion from process. While I create from instinct, I manage resources with structure, transparency, and foresight.”
The filmmaker, who has directed projects such as April 1st, Hypocrites Chair and Thin Line.
Nana said one of the major challenges facing directors is the lack of structured funding and distribution systems. According to her, piracy, poor contract enforcement and the absence of standardized pay structures continue to affect filmmakers.
“The Guild is working to create stronger collective agreements, build partnerships with streaming platforms, and push for policies that protect intellectual property,” she noted.
Founded in 1999, the Directors Guild of Nigeria represents film, television, and stage directors across the country.
