Popular filmmaker and former musician JJC Skillz recently shared why he left the music industry to focus on Nollywood.
In a chat with Channels TV, he explained that he realized he wasn’t getting any younger and decided it was time for a career change.
Despite his success in the UK music scene with groups like Big Brovaz and JJC & the 419 Squad, JJC had to start over in Nigeria and face the challenges of a new industry.
“I’ve been shooting music videos for years, even my ‘We Are Africans’ video I directed myself. But after making African Gang in 2011, I realized I was too old for the young music scene, so I moved into Nollywood. Storytelling has always been my passion,” he said.
JJC admitted that entering Nollywood wasn’t easy. Since he didn’t grow up with most Nigerian filmmakers, he encountered closed doors and gatekeeping along the way.
He credited some key figures for supporting him, including actor Deyemi Okanlawon and filmmaker Funke Akindele, who believed in his talent and helped him navigate the industry.
However, he pointed out that Nigerian cinema has major issues with ticket sales, where filmmakers often receive only a small portion of revenue.
“It’s frustrating. Cinemas can take up to 70% of ticket sales, and with 22% tax on top, filmmakers are left with almost nothing. We end up making and marketing the films ourselves because distribution companies aren’t helping,” he explained.
JJC also noted that the exit of streaming platforms from Nigeria has made it harder for filmmakers to earn back their investments.
“We hoped streaming services would change things, but they’ve gone. Now we’re left wondering if our money will come back. Business challenges are killing creativity,” he added.
He stressed that Nigerian filmmakers need to give audiences real value and that the tough business environment is a challenge for creativity.
“I even had to market my film with a promise of refunds if viewers weren’t happy. That’s how determined we are to give value,” he said.
JJC Skillz has achieved notable success in Nollywood, directing projects such as Industreet, Jenifa’s Diary, and Omo Ghetto: The Saga.
His newest film, Hakeem: Seeking Justice, features exciting action scenes and reflects his growth as a filmmaker.
