As the debate over the distribution of rice among Kannywood stars continues, industry insiders have begun to discuss the origin of what the industry should receive.
During the fasting month of Ramadan, industry star Nuhu Abdullahi distributed rice and savings to some industry stars — a move that sparked heated debates.
Among those in the industry, there were those who welcomed the distribution. However, others expressed their displeasure, saying that they did not need rice, and that there were more important things the industry needed to improve.
Among those who were angry about the rice distribution was director Ahmad Bifa, who said that there were stars who should not appear on social media receiving rice.
He said that such a move could cost the stars their business and lead to losses for their producers, as he revealed in an interview with Ali Jita.
However, some actors, such as Garzali Miko, said they enjoyed the rice distribution and were ready to go anywhere when they heard about it.
Has Kannywood Benefited from Politics?
Following the debate in the industry, discussions have also emerged on whether Kannywood has benefited from the political positions held by its members during the current administration.
Dr Muhsin Ibrahim, a lecturer at the University of Cologne in Germany and a film analyst, said the industry has benefited. According to him, it is better to have some support than none.
“Kannywood has definitely become more political due to many reasons, especially because its members now hold government positions. For example, Ali Nuhu and Rahama Sadau at the federal level, and Abba El-Mustapha and others at the state level,” he said.
What Kind of Support Does the Industry Need?
Speaking further, Dr Muhsin said there are many ways the government can support the industry to grow stronger.
“For example, there is a concept called a ‘Film Village’. I support its establishment in Kano State or other states because it will boost the film industry as a whole,” he explained.
He added that the government can also assist the industry through interest-free or low-interest loans to help produce high-quality films.
Muhsin noted that if Kannywood members have access to such financial support, many challenges will become easier to overcome.
“Their popularity is not yet strong enough to attract foreign investors or major companies. That is why they need more support, especially interest-free loans,” he said.
Need for Training and Development
Muhsin also stressed the importance of training for industry professionals.
“During the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, actors like Ali Nuhu, Hafizu Bello, Bello Muhammad Bello, Hadiza Gabon and others were sent to the United States, while Iyantama, Mandawari and others were sent to India for special training,” he added.
Rice Controversy Continues
The rice controversy has remained one of the biggest talking points in the industry this year.
According to Dr Muhsin, Kannywood is facing internal conflicts due to several factors.
“The conflict is caused by many issues. It is an industry made up of people with different backgrounds and understandings,” he explained.
He added that greed, envy, and power struggles are also contributing to the tension within the industry.
Different Views on the Rice Distribution
Despite the controversy, Muhsin said he does not see anything wrong with the rice distribution itself.
“I believe that although the industry deserves more than just rice, there is nothing wrong if those who need it accept it, while those who don’t need it simply ignore it,” he said.
He further advised that such issues should be resolved internally.
“Even if there is misunderstanding, it is an internal matter. They should sit down and resolve it instead of taking it to the public,” he added.
Kannywood Actors in Government Positions
It is clear that in recent times, many Kannywood actors have secured political appointments at both federal and state levels.
The industry has also been actively involved in election campaigns, with many actors supporting different political parties.
Below are some notable appointments:
Ali Nuhu — Chairman of Nigerian Film Industry Commission
The Nigerian government under Bola Tinubu appointed popular actor and director Ali Nuhu as Chairman of the Nigerian Film Industry Commission.
Rahama Sadau — Member of iDICE Committee
Rahama Sadau was appointed to the Technical Committee of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprise (iDICE) programme under the Office of the Vice President.
Bashir Datti — Commissioner in Plateau State
Bashir Lawandi Datti, an actor and producer, is now the Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy in Plateau State after contesting elections in 2019 and 2024.
Abba El-Mustapha — Kano State Film Censorship Board
Abba El-Mustapha currently serves as Chairman of the Kano State Film Censorship Board, appointed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Sanusi Oscar 442 — Adviser on Kannywood Affairs
Sanusi Hafiz, popularly known as Sanusi Oscar 442, was appointed as Special Adviser to the Kano Governor on Kannywood affairs, though he is believed to have later resigned.
Tijjani Gandu — Adviser on Writers
Popular political singer Tijjani Hussaini Gandu was appointed Special Adviser on Writers to the Kano Governor, but he also later stepped down.
Maryam Jankunne — Adviser on Rural Women
Former actress Maryam Abubakar Jankunne now serves as Senior Adviser to the Kano Governor on Rural Women.
Rabiatu Sulaiman Kurfi — Social Media Adviser
Rabiatu Sulaiman Kurfi is currently the Social Media Adviser to the Katsina State Governor, Dr Dikko Rada.
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