Nigeria’s film industry is wailing. Nollywood actors, film makers and influencers have begun an online protest over the continued closure of cinemas in Nigeria. This is to ensure the federal government lifts the ban.
The online protest tagged hashtag ‘Save Cinemas’ has been trending since Monday, August 17. It saw actors and filmmakers relate how the continued closure is negatively affecting entertainment industry.
Veteran actress, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde joined the online protest and wrote on Instagram: “I believe cinemas are easier to monitor and regulate. If other indoor places are open, why not the Cinemas? Temp checks, masks, distancing etc. We need to work together to ensure safer ways to keep the Arts going . Many livelihoods depend on this. It can and MUST be done as safely as possible. #savecinemas“.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CD_5My6gJq2/
Nollywood actor and rapper, Falz lending his voice to the protest commented that government contributes almost nothing to the creative sector. He wrote:
“Right now, we don’t see anything but a government that contributes little or nothing to its creative sector and continues to attempt to stifle the sector in every way. Thousands of people have been left without any way to earn for several months. The entertainment industry must be allowed to gradually get back in business!! Let’s start with cinemas reopening”,
Other film influencers to join the protest include Obi Emelonye, Toyin Abraham, Jide Kene Achufusi, Osas Ighodaro, Bellindah Effah, Enyinna Nwigwe, Lilian Afegbai among others.
Nigerian cinemas have been closed since April 2020 following directives by the federal government because of the coronavirus pandemic.