11/04/2024
WHATS GOING ON IN NOLLYWOOD?
I can tell you for free, Nollywood industry is one of the most irresponsible industries we have in Nigeria. I can't begin to count how many dea.ths we have witnessed in that industry this year alone, of which are all preventable. Those managing that industry are all failures in their respective positions. An industry that generates so many resources yet can't prioritize the health and safety of their Actors on site. This is an embarrassment to the industry. The most recent loss of lives of one of the most creative actors in the industry Junior Pop and 3 other actors were preventable if only the industry had prioritized the lives and safety of their Actors.
How do you go to a movie site without any first responders in site? Having first responders on site during a movie shoot is extremely important. They are healthcare professionals who provide essential medical assistance, including responding to emergencies, offering first aid, and monitoring the health and safety of the cast and crew. Their presence ensures a quick response to any incident, which can be crucial in preventing minor injuries from becoming major emergencies. Especially during scenes that involve stunts or hazardous conditions, the role of film set medics becomes even more critical. They help maintain a safe filming environment and are indispensable for the continuity and success of the production.
It hurts my soul seeing so much talent wasting on the altar of ignorance and incompetence in our Nollywood Industry. Those managing that industry need to seat down and figure out a better way to take Health and lives of actors more seriously.
And i would like to plead with our Talented Actors to take their lives more seriously, you have a SAY in this decision making, you have a right to turn down any movie role from any producer who doesn't strategize preventives measure such as:
1) Plan and Prepare: Safety should be integrated into production planning. Conduct a tech scout to identify potential hazards and escape routes.
2) Risk Assessment: Evaluate risks by identifying potential hazards, assessing the likelihood of harm, and determining safety measures.
Safety Equipment: Stock up on necessary safety equipment to implement the determined safety measures.
3) Safety Guidelines During a Pandemic: Follow specific guidelines such as reassessing scripts for physical distancing, obtaining crew consent, and having medical doctors on set.
4) Industry Practices: Implement well-known and effective industry practices and involve your staff in identifying and controlling risks.
Imagine if these young Actors were wearing life jackets while on that boat, they could be Alive this minute. I do hope those managing Nollywood see this and do something quick about these preventives deaths going on under them.
My sincere Condolences to Family and friends of those Actors, May Their Soul Rest In Peace.
Maxwell Domon
