Nollywood, the Nigerian movie industry is gradually being taken over by foreigners. And the infiltration is from one major source: Ghana.
.
Our investigations revealed that over the past seven months, Ghanaian actors, producers and directors have grabbed over 60 percent of the total market share. Although many are yet to comprehend the impact of this development, those who know, told Nigerian Entertainment Today over the weekend that it has very potent pros and cons.
.
A look at the movies featured on many Nollywood websites in the last six months, confirms that Ghanaian actresses, whether on Ghollywood or Nollywood productions, have dominated. Out of 184 movies featured on Nollytuned.com between April and August, 2013, Ghanaian actresses have led in at least 93 productions. Almost the same result is obtained if you check through iRokotv, ibakatv and Nollywood.com.
.
At retail stores, one will also find out that films with Ghanaian actresses are getting more patronage than the ones with Nigerian acts. Sarah Obiorah, a retail store owner at Olaniya Ademola street in Surulere, Lagos told us that a lot of her customers have become quite taken to the Ghanaian acts. 'Different customers have different preferences, but recently, a lot of them always ask if Yvonne Nelson or Jackie Appiah have new films out.
.
Then some of the ladies always like to buy a John Dumelo or a Majid Michel movie', Obiorah says.
.
Only a decade ago, Ghanaian movies hardly sold in Nigeria while Nigerian movies were blockbusters in Ghana. Today, the Ghanaian movie industry has come a long way parading some of the most beautiful actresses in Africa. At first-ever Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, AMVCA, Ghana's Jackie Appiah took home the coveted award for the 'Best Actress in a Lead Role'. Appiah again on September 14, was awarded 'Best Actress' at the Nollywood and African Film Critics Awards (NAFCA).
Nollywood is an industry that is paving way for other parts of Africa too which is not a bad idea. The fact is that the industry is still OURS!