TWO DECADES, I’M BROKE, ACTOR

Benson Okonkwo, a veteran Nollywood actor, has opened up about his struggles in the industry, revealing that despite two decades of dedication, he remains financially unstable and has yet to achieve substantial gains from his craft.

Okonkwo disclosed that he frequently wasn’t compensated for his work, despite consistently featuring in movies, leaving him disillusioned and frustrated.

He said: “I am having depression and suicidal thoughts. Please tell the world to come and save me. After 20 years in Nollywood, I cannot boast of a bag of water. There is nothing to show. A lot of actors cannot open up, but it is better I speak up than die in silence.”

His candid account has sparked emotional reactions from fans and colleagues, highlighting the grim reality of life behind the glitz and glamour of celebrity status in Nigeria’s entertainment sector.

Okonkwo’s revelation has amplified ongoing conversations about fair compensation, sustainability, and mental health in Nollywood, shedding light on the often-unspoken challenges faced by many in the creative industry.