Sexual harassment in Nollywood must end now, Joke Silva declares

Veteran actress and President of the Forum of Women in Film and TV, Nigeria, Joke Silva, has made a passionate call for the eradication of sexual harassment and negative stereotypes in the Nigerian film industry.

Speaking at the Women in Film and TV Conference in Lagos on Wednesday, Silva emphasized the need to create a safe and conducive environment for women to thrive in Nollywood.

“The importance of women in the film industry is paramount to shaping our nation, so we need a safe and conducive environment to thrive,” Silva said.

She further stressed that all forms of sexual harassment must be eliminated, as they harm not only individuals but also the nation as a whole.

“Sexual harassment in the film industry kills the nation in so many ways that you cannot imagine,” she added.

Silva also addressed the portrayal of negative stereotypes in films, urging filmmakers to break away from misleading depictions that do not reflect reality.

“It is important that we get rid of all forms of negative stereotypes in films where we paint things in a certain way, while in reality, it truly isn’t like that,” she said.

In addition, she advocated for more women in government roles to help create policies that would strengthen women’s positions in the industry.

At the same event, Anita Duckworth-Bradshaw, life coach and founder of Powerhouse Global Magazine, encouraged women who have experienced abuse in the industry to speak out as part of their healing process.

“There are a lot of damages that have been done to women, and we need to start talking to address the issues and help with the healing process,” she stated.

Duckworth-Bradshaw emphasized that healing from past trauma would enable victims to make impactful changes in Nollywood.

Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, co-founder of the African Women’s Development Fund, highlighted the importance of viewing challenges as stepping stones to success.

She also called for more opportunities for women across the entertainment industry, stressing the need for platforms that allow women to shine.

Beatrice Eyong, Director of UN Women’s Nigeria Country Office, echoed the sentiments, urging women to become indispensable in the film industry.

“Women should become irreplaceable and indispensable in the industry so that when they are not there, their impact will be felt,” she said.

Eyong also called for the adoption of industry-wide principles to guide behaviour and ensure women’s contributions are respected.