Zuby Michael: Nollywood gatekeepers fear Igbo talent will outshine them
In an interview with Broadway TV published August 30, 2026, Nollywood actor Zuby Michael said Igbo entertainers receive little support from industry gatekeepers because those executives fear being outshone. He claimed Igbo people are fast learners who can master in a year and a half what took others a decade, and if not treated well, they may leave and become direct competition.
This perception points to a possible bias within Nollywood that could limit opportunities for Igbo talent despite their aptitude. For anyone navigating or investing in the Nigerian entertainment sector, it raises questions about whether mentorship and support are being withheld due to insecurity rather than merit.
Michael’s comments also note that some Igbo executives share the same reluctance, fearing betrayal by mentees who surpass them. The takeaway for readers is to consider how personal insecurities might shape industry decisions, and to ask: Will you actively seek out and promote Igbo creatives despite perceived risks, or advocate for more inclusive support structures?