Nollywood actor, Zuby Michael, has explained why Igbos don’t get much support from industry gatekeepers and executives.
He said, “Igbo people are fast learners and they are capable of making it big with just a little. You might decide to mentor an Igbo person and what took you 10 years to learn, he will learn it in one year and six months.
Speaking in an interview with Broadway TV, Michael claimed that gatekeepers and executives are often skeptical of supporting Igbo talents because they are afraid they could easily outshine them.
“And if you don’t treat him well, he will leave you and start doing the same business you taught him and become your competition. So, people are scared of that.
“Industry executives, including some Igbos, don’t like supporting Igbos because they feel like they will get betrayed by their mentee outshining them,” he explained.
Zuby Michael’s View on Mentorship
According to the actor, the fear of being surpassed by younger talents could be one of the reasons some established figures are reluctant to fully invest in the growth of upcoming Igbo entertainers.
He suggested that the ability of young talents to learn quickly and build on the knowledge they receive from their mentors may sometimes be perceived as a threat rather than an opportunity for the industry to grow.
Michael’s comments have drawn attention to the issue of mentorship and support within the Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly the relationship between established entertainers and upcoming talents.
The Need for More Support
The entertainment industry remains highly competitive, with aspiring actors, musicians and other creatives often depending on established professionals for opportunities, guidance and connections.
For many upcoming talents, having someone who is willing to teach, recommend and create opportunities for them can make a significant difference in their careers. However, concerns about competition, loyalty and being replaced can sometimes affect these relationships.
While Zuby Michael’s claim reflects his personal view and experience, it also raises a broader question about whether established entertainers should see the success of those they mentor as a threat or as part of building a stronger industry.
In my view, mentorship should be about creating opportunities for the next generation rather than holding people back out of fear that they may eventually become competitors. When talented people are supported and given room to grow, their success can also contribute to the growth and development of the wider entertainment industry.
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