Renowned filmmaker and former musician JJC Skillz has shared his journey from the music industry to Nollywood.
In an interview with reporters, he explained that he felt he had outgrown the youthful energy of the music scene and decided to channel his creativity into filmmaking and storytelling.
Despite enjoying success abroad with groups like Big Brovaz and JJC & the 419 Squad, he revealed that starting afresh in Nigeria came with challenges, including resistance from industry gatekeepers.
“As far back as I can remember, I’ve been shooting music videos for years. Even my ‘We Are Africans’ video, I shot that myself. But after doing African Gang in 2011, I realised I was getting too old for the young scene, so I knew it was time to evolve. I packed my bags and moved into Nollywood because I was passionate about telling stories.
Starting again wasn’t easy. I didn’t grow up with most of the filmmakers here, so it felt like I was intruding into their space. Some doors were closed. There are gatekeepers at every level,” he said.
He acknowledged the support of actor Deyemi Okanlawon and filmmaker Funke Akindele, who believed in his talent and encouraged his journey.
JJC also spoke about the financial struggles filmmakers face in Nigeria, especially with cinema distribution.
“It’s a situation of monkey dey work, baboon dey chop. Sometimes cinemas take up to 70 per cent, other times 60, and with 22 per cent tax on top, we’re left with almost nothing. We make the films and also have to sell them ourselves because distribution companies aren’t pushing them. It’s a terrible place to be,” he said.
He added that the exit of streaming platforms from Nigeria has worsened the situation, leaving filmmakers uncertain about recovering their investments.
“Streaming gave us hope, but now they’re gone. So the question is, if we put money into making films, will we get it back? At the end of the day, it’s a business, and creativity is being stifled,” he said.
Despite these challenges, JJC believes Nigerian filmmakers must continue to deliver quality and value to audiences.
“We must improve to give viewers their money’s worth. I’ve even marketed my films with a money-back guarantee if people weren’t satisfied,” he said.
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JJC has since established himself in Nollywood, directing projects such as Industreet, Jenifa’s Diary, and Omo Ghetto: The Saga.
His latest film, Hakeem: Seeking Justice, features action sequences and reflects his growth as a filmmaker.
