Famous Nollywood actress, screenwriter and entrepreneur Abigail Ebnoluwa Mma has sparked important conversations within the Nigerian film industry, asking female actors to explicitly reject the exploitative culture of swapping sex for roles.
Passionately, Abigail NMAH is also the wife of Marvin Nma, a pioneer of the globally recognized Afro-Adula music movement, but she emphasized her deep commitment to Nollywood, rooted in merit, professionalism and integrity.
“I am Abigail Ebunoluwa Nmah, an actress, screenwriter and entrepreneur,” she declared. “My journey in this industry is paved with hard work, passion and the pursuit of excellence. My husband, Marvin and I have a deep faith in the transformational power of creativity.
Addressing what she described as a “whispering issue,” Nmah denounced the long-standing practices in Nollywood where female actors are expected to submit to sexual advances from producers or male counterparts to secure the role.
“As the world moves towards equity and professionalism, Norrywood – the African cinematic mind – will not be left behind,” she said. “The idea that women must compromise their dignity in order to see and hear is not only deeply damaging the integrity and soul of our industry, but also deeply damaged.”
Nmah argued that such unethical practices deprive them of their authenticity and hinder real artistic expression.
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“If a role is awarded based on submission rather than talent, we lose authenticity. It rewards the real talent of manipulation and silence. It is a betrayal of what film and art should represent.”
She outlined the broad outcomes of the “sexual position” culture, including psychological sacrifices for young actresses, erosion of trust within the industry, and damage to reputation for Nollywood.
“This culture creates fear, anxiety and a decline in self-worth for aspiring actresses. It violates the image of Nollywood and obscures the efforts of countless professionals who are trying to lift the industry with integrity and dedication.”
Nmah also highlighted how these practices compromise the quality of storytelling in Nigerian films.
“When roles are acquired through exploitation, we lose the richness of authentic storytelling. It silences the voices of truly talented individuals and dilutes the potential of the industry.”
Her message culminated with a passionate call for action.
Conclusion of her powerful statement, Abigail Nma stood not only as the voice of the female in the film, but also as a proud partner of men who described music as “enhancing hearts and hearts all over the world.”
“Build Nollywood based on merit, truth, and undeniable talent. Let those who are not forced to compromise will have a role to those who win them. This new century must be the age where we rewrite scripts.
