Actors Want Royalties? “Invest in Films,” Says Bolaji Ogunmola Amid Industry Debate

Nigerian actress and producer Bolaji Ogunmola has sparked fresh conversation around royalties in the film industry, urging actors to adopt a more investment-driven approach if they want long-term earnings.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Ogunmola advised actors seeking royalties to consider taking the “back-end” route by putting their own money into film productions. According to her, actors could negotiate reduced upfront fees—or even forgo payment entirely—in exchange for a share of the film’s profits.

“If you want royalties, back end. Put your money in the film. Negotiate a slashed fee or nothing at all for a percentage. Put body joor. Let’s all enjoy the benefit of the hard labour,” she wrote.

She also used the opportunity to address piracy, calling on fans to stop watching Nigerian films on illegal platforms such as Moviebox and Telegram. Ogunmola stressed that piracy significantly affects revenue and limits the ability of industry professionals to earn sustainably.

“You can’t want lifetime royalties for actors and still be watching their film on pirated platforms… Please help us. Moviebox/Telegram is not the place to watch Nigerian content,” she added.

Her comments come in response to recent remarks by veteran actress Patience Ozokwor, who revealed in an interview that many actors struggle financially because they do not receive royalties after their work. Ozokwor noted that, unlike more structured film industries abroad, actors in Nigeria are typically paid only for their time on set, with no residual income from future earnings.

The exchange has reignited discussions about fair compensation, industry structure, and the role of both filmmakers and audiences in sustaining Nollywood.