Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Ruth Kadiri, has voiced her concerns about the growing pressure producers are placing on actors to achieve one million views on YouTube within the first day of a movie’s release. Taking to her Instagram page, Kadiri urged her colleagues not to fall victim to this unreasonable expectation, emphasizing that such numbers are not the ultimate measure of a film's success.

The actress, known for her own successful YouTube productions, addressed the issue with a passionate message aimed at fellow Nollywood actors. In her post, Kadiri wrote, “Dear Nollywood actors, take the pressure off your shoulders! Any producer who requires one million views from you in one day has failed. A good production requires more than your face. One million views is not a standard of success. So much y’all don’t know about YouTube. Don’t let their ignorance rob you of your joy.”

Kadiri’s remarks shine a light on the pressures faced by actors in Nollywood, especially in the age of digital platforms where the success of a film is often measured by online engagement. The push to reach one million views in a short time is unrealistic for many movies, particularly those that are still growing in popularity. Kadiri points out that a successful film is built on quality production, storytelling, and the effort of the entire team—not just the actor’s popularity or social media following.

While it is true that YouTube views can indicate popularity, it is crucial to recognize that digital success is complex. Algorithms, audience behavior, and even the timing of a release can all play significant roles in the number of views a movie garners, regardless of its quality.

Opinion: A Call for a Shift in Perspective

Ruth Kadiri's comments are not just a plea for empathy, but a call for a broader understanding of success in Nollywood. It’s easy for producers and the public to get caught up in numbers, but Kadiri’s message reminds us that a film’s value cannot be reduced to clicks and views. A good production is about the collective effort of everyone involved, from the director to the sound designer, and yes, the actors who bring the story to life.

Her post serves as a timely reminder for Nollywood to embrace a more holistic view of success, one that values quality and craftsmanship over short-term viral metrics. For actors, it's also an invitation to take back control of their careers and not be swayed by unrealistic expectations.

Ultimately, Ruth Kadiri’s voice adds a much-needed perspective to the conversation about success in Nollywood, urging all stakeholders to consider the bigger picture and not just the numbers.