Why Some Nollywood Veterans Are Impoverished In Old Age – Segun Arinze
In response to the growing number of aged Nollywood veterans seeking financial assistance, actor Segun Arinze proposed a solution during a media briefing organized by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in Lagos on Tuesday. He absolved the AGN of any blame and emphasized the importance of actors belonging to the guild.
Arinze pointed out that some actors prefer to act without affiliating with any guild but turn to social media to beg for money when they fall sick. He suggested that fans should ask their favorite actors about the guild they belong to, as this awareness might encourage more actors to join professional associations.
He also mentioned that the Director-General of the National Film and Video Censors Board, Adedayo Thomas, has requested statistics on Nollywood practitioners in their respective associations.
Recently, several famous Nollywood veterans have faced financial challenges in their old age, resorting to social media for aid. Dayo Adewunmi, also known as Baba Sule Suebebe, sought financial assistance in July 2023 for medical bills, while Ojo Arowosafe, known as Fadeyi Oloro, struggled to pay rent before passing away in March 2023.
To address these issues and improve the welfare of Nollywood actors, the AGN has implemented pension accounts and health insurance initiatives for its members. AGN President Emeka Rollas encouraged actors to join the guild to access these welfare packages, including on-the-spot accident insurance during filming and a Stanbic IBTC pension scheme.
He stressed that being part of the guild and availing of these benefits would provide financial security and support for actors, especially during times of need.
Ireporteronline.com
