Nollywood actor Zuby Michael has offered his opinion on why some Igbo talents may struggle to receive strong backing from influential figures in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
The actor suggested that fear of creating future competition could be one of the reasons some industry executives are reluctant to invest heavily in young Igbo talents.
Zuby Michael Says Fast Learning Can Make Igbo Talents a Threat
Speaking during an interview, Zuby Michael claimed that many Igbo people are quick to learn new skills and can become successful within a relatively short period when given the right opportunity.
According to him, an executive may spend years mastering a particular aspect of the entertainment business, only to discover that a mentee can learn the same skills much faster.
He explained that this possibility can make some people hesitant to mentor or fully support upcoming talents.
“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.”
Actor Says Mentors Fear Creating Their Own Competition
Zuby Michael further argued that the situation becomes more complicated when a mentee eventually decides to establish an independent career.
He said some executives fear that an individual they helped train could leave after learning the business and eventually become a direct competitor.
“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.”
The actor maintained that this fear can affect the level of support available to some Igbo entertainers trying to establish themselves in the industry.
Zuby Michael Says Even Igbo Executives Can Be Reluctant to Help
The Nollywood star also claimed that the issue is not limited to executives from other ethnic groups.
According to him, some Igbo industry figures may also hesitate to support fellow Igbo talents because they fear being outshone by the people they mentor.
He suggested that concerns about betrayal, competition and losing one’s position can sometimes influence how established figures choose to support emerging entertainers.
“Industry executives, including some Igbos, don’t like supporting Igbos because they feel like they will get betrayed by their mentee outshining them.”
Zuby Michael’s comments have sparked discussion about mentorship, competition and the challenges faced by upcoming talents seeking opportunities in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
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