Niyi Akinmolayan cinema expansion plan sparks debate as filmmaker proposes 100 new cinemas across Nigeria amid streaming concerns

Renowned Nigerian filmmaker Niyi Akinmolayan has called for a sweeping expansion of cinema infrastructure across Nigeria, urging stakeholders to rethink film distribution strategies within Nollywood’s evolving landscape.

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Akinmolayan made the proposal in a detailed post shared on his Instagram page, where he addressed growing concerns about the reliability of streaming platforms as a primary distribution channel for Nigerian films.

He noted that several streaming services have entered and exited the market in recent years, creating uncertainty for filmmakers who depend heavily on digital platforms.

In contrast, the filmmaker pointed to the relative stability of cinema operations, highlighting chains such as Silverbird Cinemas as examples of consistent audience engagement despite economic pressures.

He referenced challenges including inflation, pandemic disruptions and broader security concerns, yet argued that cinemas have shown remarkable resilience.

Akinmolayan described the traditional cinema model as “steady but underutilised”, questioning why greater investment has not been directed towards expanding screening locations across the country.

He suggested that the industry explore more cost-effective cinema formats that could operate outside large shopping mall environments, making expansion more feasible.

The filmmaker further proposed an ambitious cinematic overhaul, calling for the creation of 100 new cinema locations in Nigeria within the next two years.

He argued that such development could strengthen Nollywood’s distribution network and offer filmmakers a more dependable route to audiences.

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His remarks have generated widespread discussion within the entertainment industry, as stakeholders continue to weigh the long-term future of film distribution in Nigeria amid shifting audience habits and ongoing uncertainty in the streaming sector.