In recent years, a number of Nigerian stars have spoken out about their financial struggles, revealing that despite decades in the spotlight, they have faced financial insecurity. Sunday Afolabi, a veteran actor, has been at the forefront of this conversation after being spotted driving a commercial bus.
Financial Struggles in Nollywood
Papa Ajasco, a beloved character in Nigerian television, has been on the air since 1997. Despite decades of work on the character, the actor, Abiodun Ayoyinka, says his pay has only risen from β¦22,500 in 1997 to β¦45,000ββ¦60,000 per episode today. This is a significant increase, but it still does not match the fame and recognition that comes with playing a character as iconic as Papa Ajasco.
Ayoyinka also revealed that he has no house or car of his own, and the situation is partly due to the decline of the sitcom and restrictions around the trademarked Papa Ajasco character. However, producer Wale Adenuga disputed his account, saying Ayoyinka had been supported over the years and was free to take other jobs, provided he did not use the trademarked Papa Ajasco identity without approval.
The Reality of Life After Fame
Veteran Yoruba actor Fatai Oodua Adekunle Adetayo, popularly known as Lalude, was still using motorcycles to get to film locations after years in Nollywood. It was only after skit maker Kamo discovered his situation and appealed to Nigerians to help the actor get a car that Lalude received a Toyota Corolla in June 2023. An anonymous donor reportedly gave β¦3 million, while other fans also contributed.
Iya Gbonkan went viral in 2023 after revealing that, despite decades in Nollywood, she still did not own a car and relied on buses and commercial motorcycles to get to film locations. A fundraising drive led by cleric Gabriel Agbala raised more than β¦5 million towards her car and house, while fellow actresses Abeni Agbon and Tamo Tiye also gave her β¦500,000. A UK-based film promoter, Alexes Promotions, bought her a vehicle after hearing her appeal.
The Human Impact of Financial Struggles
The financial struggles faced by these Nigerian stars are a stark reminder of the reality of life after fame. Many of them have had to rely on public donations to get by, and some have even sold their belongings to pay for medical treatment. For example, veteran actor Ganiu Nofiu, popularly known as Alapini Osa, sold two cars to pay for his son's treatment. His son eventually died after months of treatment, and soon after, a fan identified as Lekan Enuope gifted Alapini a 2007 Toyota Sienna.
A Call to Action
The stories of these Nigerian stars serve as a reminder that fame and fortune are not always a guarantee. It is up to all of us to support those who are struggling, whether it is through donating to a fundraising campaign or simply offering a listening ear. As the situation of these stars continues to unfold, it is clear that there is a need for greater support and understanding of the financial struggles that many Nigerian stars face.
Source: Pulse.ng
