Abubakar Yakubu Sworn In as President of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Promises Unity and Welfare Reforms
The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has begun a new phase of leadership as Abubakar Yakubu was officially sworn in as the President of the guild in a ceremony attended by actors, stakeholders, and industry figures from across the country. The event marked more than a routine leadership transition; it represented a renewed sense of direction and hope for the professional body that represents thousands of actors within Nigeria’s thriving film industry.
Yakubu’s emergence comes at a time when Nollywood continues to expand its influence beyond national borders while also facing internal challenges around welfare, professionalism, and unity among members. In his remarks during the ceremony, the new president acknowledged the responsibilities ahead and expressed readiness to strengthen the guild’s structure to meet modern industry realities.
He stated that the guild must align itself with the growing global relevance of Nollywood by ensuring that actors are properly represented, protected, and supported.
According to him, the Actors Guild must evolve into a more efficient, transparent, and member-focused organization capable of addressing both current and future needs of actors across the country.
A key part of Yakubu’s message focused on the welfare of members. Conversations about healthcare support, insurance coverage, and emergency assistance for actors have long been part of industry discussions. He assured members that his administration would work toward creating practical solutions that guarantee dignity and support for actors during and after their careers. He noted that many veteran actors struggle after years of contributing to the industry and emphasized the need for a sustainable welfare framework within the guild.
Yakubu also addressed the issue of unity, recognizing that the guild has experienced periods of internal disagreements in the past. He called on members from all factions to see his leadership as an opportunity to rebuild trust and harmony. He appealed for cooperation, stressing that the strength of the guild lies in collective effort rather than division.
Beyond welfare and unity, the new president spoke about raising professional standards among actors. He hinted at plans to introduce training initiatives, workshops, and collaborations that will improve the quality of acting and professionalism on set. This, he believes, will further enhance Nollywood’s image as more productions gain international attention and attract global streaming platforms.
Many actors present at the ceremony expressed optimism about Yakubu’s leadership style, describing him as accessible and experienced. Some noted that his broad understanding of different segments of the industry positions him well to promote inclusiveness across regions and backgrounds. The peaceful nature of the transition was also seen as a positive sign for the future stability of the guild.
Yakubu emphasized transparency and accountability as guiding principles of his administration, promising open communication with members regarding decisions and activities of the guild. He also spoke about encouraging younger actors and creating mentorship opportunities that connect emerging talents with industry veterans.
As the ceremony concluded, there was a shared sense that the real work begins now. Expectations are high, and many within the industry believe that the direction of the Actors Guild under Yakubu’s leadership will play a significant role in shaping the future of actors in Nigeria.
For many who witnessed the swearing-in, the occasion symbolized a fresh start for the guild and a renewed commitment to strengthening the voice and welfare of Nigerian actors in an industry that continues to grow in global relevance.
