Popular Nollywood actress, Bukunmi Oluwashina, has opened up about the toxicity and rivalry among female colleagues in the Nigerian film industry. In a recent Instagram post, she candidly discussed the competitive atmosphere in Nollywood, contrasting it with the supportive environment she has observed among male actors. Her reflections have sparked a broader conversation about the dynamics of the industry.
Bukunmi expressed admiration for the camaraderie among male actors, writing, “I envy these men. Just take a look at them. The way they contain each other, support each other, grow together…” She praised how male actors cheer each other on, even when vying for the same roles or accolades. She continued, “Their collective growth is evident in how they acknowledge and cheer each other on, despite sharing the same goals.”
However, the actress was quick to highlight the stark contrast when it comes to female actors. “You people make loving genuinely like a very difficult thing. It costs nothing,” she wrote, reflecting on how some women in the industry are often caught up in petty rivalries. Bukunmi shared an anecdote about how some of her colleagues focus on small disagreements rather than fostering a spirit of cooperation, stating, “Someone asked me, ‘How do you think this person would feel for posting that person? You are supposed to post this person first and then post that. This person won’t like or drop a comment if you post that person.’”
In her post, Bukunmi also touched on the role of fans, who she believes often encourage such rivalries. “Are we on a battlefield? Okay, if we are, what are we fighting for? Crown? Money? Post? Nice one, which of them are we taking with us when we die?” she asked, pointing out how fans sometimes stoke conflict by forcing celebrities to choose sides. She emphasized that the negativity often stems from the toxic energy some fans project, stemming from their own personal struggles.
Bukunmi made it clear that she would not be part of the negativity that sometimes surrounds Nollywood, asserting, “Let it be known that I am at peace with everyone and this heart has no limitation in love.” She reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining a peaceful and loving attitude, refusing to engage in petty rivalries or hatred. “Joy is no joy to me if its purpose is to make other people feel sad,” she wrote, further emphasizing that true love is about inclusivity and shared happiness.
The actress also addressed the criticism that male actors show “fake love” toward each other, defending them by saying, “One thing I know is that you cannot show what you don’t have.” She rejected the idea that male actors’ support for one another is disingenuous, suggesting that even “fake love” reflects an underlying capacity for affection. Bukunmi urged her followers to recognize that love is not meant to be kept or contained but shared generously.
In a final reflection, Bukunmi encouraged her followers to rise above bitterness and show love even to those who do not reciprocate. “You can be the one to break that chain. I mean, showing love and support to a person who doesn’t show you love in return… makes you the bigger person,” she explained. Her post resonated with many, sparking discussions on how the Nollywood industry can evolve into a more supportive and unified space for female actors.
