Bolaji Ogunmolaji: Uche Jombo reacts to Nollywood criticism
Renowned filmmaker and actress Uche Jombo reacts to Nollywood criticism with a firm call for respect, professionalism, and deeper understanding of the craft, as debates about the quality of Nigerian films intensify online.
The award winning Nollywood veteran addressed a growing wave of commentary questioning the depth, originality, and production standards of modern Nigerian movies. Her response comes at a pivotal time when Nollywood continues to expand its global footprint through major streaming platforms such as Netflix and Prime Video, attracting both international acclaim and heightened scrutiny.
Speaking passionately about the state of the industry, Jombo stressed that filmmaking is not a casual endeavor but a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, discipline, and collaboration. According to her, dismissive criticism undermines the years of progress and the effort invested by industry professionals.
Jombo, who has successfully evolved from an A list actress into a respected producer and director under her banner Uche Jombo Studios, cautioned against trivializing the work that goes into every production. She emphasized that each film represents months of preparation, long hours on set, and painstaking post production processes.
Highlighting the complexity of production, the filmmaker reminded critics that a ninety minute feature often takes months of pre production planning, intense filming schedules, and detailed editing before reaching audiences. She also underscored the industry’s economic impact, noting that Nollywood provides employment for thousands of Nigerians, including actors, cinematographers, light technicians, editors, costume designers, and scriptwriters.
While acknowledging that constructive criticism plays a vital role in growth, Jombo pointed out what she described as a rise in disrespectful commentary that fails to recognize the structural challenges Nigerian filmmakers face. These challenges include funding limitations, infrastructure deficits, and distribution barriers.
As a leading figure in the New Nollywood movement, Jombo defended the industry’s steady evolution. She argued that significant improvements have been made in storytelling, cinematography, and overall production value when compared to previous decades.
Industry observers believe her strong stance reflects a wider sentiment among veteran filmmakers who feel that the digital age has given rise to armchair critics who often overlook the realities behind movie production. According to analysts, the ease of online commentary has intensified pressure on creatives without necessarily improving informed discourse.
Jombo also touched on the international perception of Nollywood, warning that how Nigerians speak about their own films directly shapes global attitudes. She maintained that for Nollywood to stand shoulder to shoulder with Hollywood and Bollywood, stakeholders and audiences must promote its strengths publicly while addressing weaknesses constructively behind closed doors.
Support for the actress has since poured in from colleagues and fans, many of whom describe Nollywood as one of Nigeria’s most resilient cultural exports. Social media reactions suggest a broader conversation about balancing accountability with appreciation for creative labor.
As Uche Jombo reacts to Nollywood criticism, her message resonates clearly across entertainment circles. Filmmaking, she insists, is serious business that deserves serious regard. Though the industry continues to evolve, voices like hers reaffirm confidence in Nollywood’s future, provided the craft is treated with the dignity and respect it commands.