Nollywood veteran Francis Odega has raised concerns over what he describes as the declining quality of Nigerian films, stating that productions from earlier years were more impactful and memorable than today’s offerings.

Speaking on the Where Is the Lie podcast, Odega reflected on the evolution of the Nigerian film industry.

He attributed the perceived decline to the increasing trend of stretching a single script into multiple installments, which he believes weakens storytelling.

“Nollywood of then is better than Nollywood now. Back then, one script made one movie.

Today, one story can become seven movies, which dilutes the plot and makes it watery. It’s better to have one tight, engaging film,” he explained.

Odega admitted that this trend has even affected his personal viewing habits: “Even me, I don’t watch movies.”

With over 30 years in the industry, Odega is among Nollywood’s pioneers.

He recounted the early days of the profession, when the industry’s main professional body was known as the Nigerian Actors Guild, which later evolved into the Actors Guild of Nigeria.

“I was among those who shaped Nollywood. When we started, it was just a phenomenon.

Our organization, initially called the Nigerian Actors Guild, later became the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria. Nollywood grew from there,” he said.

Odega’s critique highlights a broader concern about quality versus quantity in modern Nollywood films, emphasizing the importance of strong scripts and concise storytelling to maintain the industry’s global reputation.