Segun Arinze
Veteran Nollywood actor Segun Arinze has expressed concerns that Nollywood is losing its African authenticity due to the increasing influence of foreign culture.
Speaking in an interview with Joy News on March 27, 2025, he said that while the industry is growing, the stories being told are becoming “slightly distorted,” making Nollywood lose its originality. He attributed this shift to social media and global exposure, which have led many filmmakers to adopt Western storytelling styles rather than preserving African traditions.
“We are losing originality. We are beginning to imitate Western culture instead of keeping our authentic African stories. Just because we travel and interact globally doesn’t mean we should abandon our customs and traditions,” he said.
He gave an example of how traditional African marriage ceremonies are being replaced by white weddings, emphasizing that this cultural shift is also happening in Nollywood.
Segun Arinze urged filmmakers to stay true to African storytelling and not let foreign influences erase the industry’s rich heritage.