Veteran Nollywood actor, Femi Durojaiye, has spoken about the lack of mentorship in the Nigerian film industry, stating that many young actors are left to navigate the complex landscape of Nollywood on their own.
In a conversation with Sunday Scoop, Durojaiye reflected on his own early struggles as a budding filmmaker.
He said, “Mentoring is tough, especially mentoring young actors. It’s certainly not for the weak. I was snubbed when I was looking for guidance as a new filmmaker. Many in Nollywood don’t have the time or patience to mentor anyone. Some are even afraid that the mentored may eventually replace them.”
Despite these challenges, Durojaiye has committed himself to nurturing emerging talent through his initiative, Project100 Beyond Acting, which is said to offer a structured platform for actors to develop their craft and gain real industry experience.
“I am naturally drawn to young people, and I want to help them succeed because I’ve walked the same path. Nollywood often uses only those who are ready and visible, but it doesn’t mentor anyone. Through this initiative, new actors gain the chance to perform, build confidence, and work alongside established celebrities. While some colleagues focus on the registration fee, I see the bigger picture. It’s about preparing the next generation of actors for the realities of this industry.”
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