Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Ibrahim Chatta has expressed concern over the growing impact of insecurity on Nigeria’s film industry, saying banditry and kidnappings are discouraging filmmakers from producing epic movies.
Speaking in a video shared on his Facebook page, Chatta explained that many producers are increasingly reluctant to film in remote locations and forests—settings that are often essential for historical and epic productions—because of fears of kidnapping and attacks by criminal groups.
According to the actor, the situation has also affected his film village, where he has for years supplied horses, camels and donkeys for some of Nollywood’s biggest epic productions, including Jagun Jagun, House of Gaa, Iyalode and Labake Olododo.
Chatta revealed that the decline in epic film productions has significantly reduced demand for the animals, forcing him to suspend plans to expand his horse stable.
He disclosed that he once owned more than 70 horses but now has about 27, describing it as the lowest number since he established the film village. He explained that producers who previously rented horses for movie productions have stopped doing so because many are unwilling to risk filming in locations they consider unsafe.
The actor also lamented the rising cost of maintaining the animals, noting that the price of feed has increased dramatically over the years. Faced with declining patronage and rising operational costs, he said he has shifted part of his investment to cattle farming.
Beyond the financial implications, Chatta warned that the continued insecurity poses a serious threat to the future of Nigeria’s epic movie genre, which has gained international recognition for showcasing the country’s history, culture and traditional heritage.
His comments come at a time when the Nigerian entertainment industry has continued to call for stronger measures to address insecurity across the country. In recent weeks, several entertainers have urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to tackle banditry, kidnappings and other violent crimes, citing their impact on communities, businesses and creative enterprises.
Industry observers say epic films have played a significant role in promoting Nigeria’s cultural identity to global audiences, and that improving security in rural communities would not only protect lives and property but also enable filmmakers to continue producing stories that celebrate the nation’s rich history and traditions.
