Josephina Otabor, widely recognized by her stage name Phyna, a star from the Big Brother Naija reality show, recently shared her disheartenment with the Nigerian movie industry’s apparent culture of sabotage. Phyna, who ventured into acting with her role in the 2023 film ‘Osato,’ took to her X handle to express her disillusionment with the challenges she’s faced within Nollywood.
Describing her experience, Phyna remarked, “Omo seems the Nollywood industry is also insane.” Her comments shine a light on the underlying issues of nepotism, gatekeeping, and the hurdles newcomers face in the Nigerian entertainment landscape. “Gosh I’m tired, people just make things difficult for people,” she continued, revealing the frustration and obstacles she has encountered in her acting career thus far.
Phyna’s candid reflection on her birthplace underscores a deeper yearning for an environment that fosters talent without the encumbrances of internal industry politics. “I wish I was born somewhere far from here,” she disclosed, pointing to a sense of disillusionment not just with the industry, but potentially with broader societal issues that affect creative expression and career progression in Nigeria.
Phyna’s remarks have sparked conversations among fans and industry observers alike, bringing to the forefront the need for a more supportive and transparent mechanism within Nollywood that allows for the nurturing and flourishing of emerging talent. Her experience, shared publicly, invites a critical examination of the structures within the Nigerian movie industry and a call for reforms that encourage inclusivity, fairness, and the celebration of merit.
