Nigerian comedian and actor Bovi has emphasized that women have made significant strides and, in many cases, now control the industry they are fighting to equalize.
During a recent appearance on TVC’s Your View, the panel discussed the entertainment industry in Nigeria, focusing on women’s roles within it. When the topic of women’s opportunities and their fight for equality arose, Bovi asserted that women already dominate the sector.
He explained, “Women need to understand that in areas where they are fighting for equality, sometimes they may have conquered, but because they are used to fighting, they don’t know that they’ve won. You talk about the entertainment industry and how it can help women. But I observed 10 or 15 years ago that women actually control the entertainment industry. So what are we talking about?”
Bovi pointed out the substantial influence women have had in shaping the entertainment landscape over the past decade. He highlighted notable figures such as Funke Akindele, who has amassed great box office numbers every year for the past five years, and Mo Abudu, another leading producer. He noted, “The biggest box office hit is a woman, Funke Akindele. The second biggest box office hit is also a woman, Mo Abudu. They are the biggest producers. Bolanle Austin-Peters is one of the biggest producers. Jade Osibero is one of the biggest directors since Kemi Adetiba. The biggest film festival is by Chioma Ode. So what are you saying?”
Listing more influential women in the industry, including Omoni Oboli, Uche Jombo, and Genevieve Nnaji, Bovi reinforced the idea that women are at the forefront of the entertainment industry. He stated, “So when I see young girls complaining about male producers demanding sex for roles, I’m like, ‘Yes, it’s true. But who have you cried to? Who have you spoken to? You own the industry.’”
Bovi’s comments aim to empower women in the entertainment sector, reminding them of their substantial contributions and influence.