Chizzy Alichi Calls for Greater Recognition of Asaba Filmmakers in Nollywood

Nollywood actress Chizzy Alichi has spoken out about the lack of recognition that Asaba-based filmmakers receive from the mainstream Nollywood industry.

In a recent interview with Hiptv, Alichi highlighted the financial challenges that hinder filmmakers in Asaba from producing high-quality films. She pointed out that while actors from Asaba are popular, the lower-budget productions in the region often go unnoticed by the broader Nollywood community.

Alichi explained that one of the key differences between Asaba and Lagos productions is the level of investment in filmmaking. “The only difference I see here is maybe in the making of the movie. Lagos tends to take their time especially the use of props. There in Asaba, we believe in mass production as e dey hot,” she said. She acknowledged that Nollywood is a national industry, but emphasized that Asaba filmmakers work under stricter financial constraints, which can impact the quality of their productions.

Despite these challenges, Alichi praised the widespread popularity of Asaba actors, pointing out that their films are more accessible to a wider audience. “Most of the Asaba actors are more popular because they make the movie with a low budget. It goes to even the village women. Not everybody has time or money to come to the cinema but those epic movies; even the market women, the hawkers, the mechanics, can watch,” she said. This accessibility, she explained, allows people from less privileged backgrounds to enjoy Nollywood films, even if they can’t afford streaming services or cinema tickets.

However, Alichi stressed that while the reach of Asaba films is extensive, there is a need to improve production standards. “The world has gone past that kind of movie, they need to step it up a bit,” she concluded. Alichi’s comments serve as a call for filmmakers in Asaba to raise the quality of their work, ensuring that they remain competitive in the ever-evolving Nollywood landscape.

Her statement also reflects the broader conversation about the need for increased investment and recognition for regional filmmakers in Nigeria’s film industry.