Timini Egbuson Sparks Debate on Cross-Industry Support in Nigeria’s Entertainment Scene

Nollywood actor Timini Egbuson has sparked an important conversation about the perceived lack of cross-industry support in Nigeria’s entertainment sector. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the actor voiced his frustration, calling out what he sees as an imbalance between Nollywood and the music industry.

“Really wish musicians supported Nollywood the way we support their music but that’s a conversation for another day,” he wrote.

His statement, though brief, quickly gained traction, sparking reactions from both industry insiders and social media users.

Do2dtun Weighs In on the Issue

Popular media personality and hype man Do2dtun was among the first to respond, offering a critical take on the matter. According to him, the problem is not just that musicians fail to support Nollywood—he believes Nollywood itself struggles with reciprocating support within its own industry.

“Media for them is just a means to an end. The moment they work through your platform; it’s done. Nollywood screams support but they don’t return the favor,” he stated.

Do2dtun argued that many Nollywood figures only back projects based on personal gain and clout rather than genuine industry solidarity. He also pointed out that members of the press, who often help promote Nollywood films, do not receive the same appreciation that musicians show towards those who support their craft.

“Support should not be parasitic… Even the members of the press are the least likely to be treated with the experience they share with others,” he added.

His comments broadened the conversation, shifting the focus from musicians’ lack of support to the internal challenges within Nollywood itself.

Diverse Reactions from the Public

The debate quickly gained momentum, with social media users sharing varying perspectives. While some agreed with Timini’s stance, arguing that top musicians should do more to support Nollywood in terms of financial investment and visibility, others felt his concerns were misplaced.

Some users suggested that instead of merely asking for promotions, Nollywood should focus on attracting musicians as investors. “Attract them to partner and invest in the Nollywood industry—studios, movies & distribution channels. Some of them, at least the top 20, are extremely wealthy and looking for bankable investment opportunities,” one user wrote.

Others, however, dismissed Timini’s concerns, with some noting that musicians themselves struggle with internal support. “Musicians that aren’t even supporting themselves. It’s better you guys rally yourselves and keep supporting each other as you are doing,” a user commented.

Additionally, some questioned whether Nollywood had the same cultural impact as music in Nigeria. “To be honest, you can’t do without music in any field, but many of us can do without movies. Like me, I can go one year or two without playing a movie, but I’m using my own money to pay for Apple Music every month,” another user argued.

The Bigger Picture

Beyond the immediate debate, some users highlighted the structural differences between the music and film industries as a key factor. Unlike Hollywood, where sync deals and licensing play a major role in generating revenue for musicians, Nollywood lacks a comparable financial framework that would make collaboration a mutually beneficial business venture.

“Think of this from a size and mutual benefits POV. In the earlier stages, it was support, but now musicians have a clear structure. The story will change when sync and license patronage from Nollywood becomes a key revenue driver for the music industry in Nigeria,” a user explained.

This perspective suggests that financial incentives and structured partnerships could be the missing link that encourages stronger collaboration between the two industries.

A Call for Genuine Collaboration

Timini Egbuson’s remark may have been a casual observation, but it has unearthed a deeper conversation about collaboration and mutual support within Nigeria’s entertainment sector. While Nollywood actors may feel musicians are not backing their films, others argue that the film industry must first address its internal challenges before expecting external support.

Ultimately, support is a two-way street. If Nollywood seeks greater backing from musicians, the industry may need to create tangible opportunities that make such partnerships worthwhile—whether through financial incentives, investment structures, or a cultural shift towards genuine collaboration beyond red-carpet appearances.