Ibrahim Malami, the newly elected Chairman of the Kano State wing of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), is a seasoned figure in the entertainment industry. With an extensive background as an actor, director, producer, and entertainment journalist, Malami has left his mark on both Kannywood and Nollywood. In this interview, Malami shares his journey, vision for the industry, and his plans to elevate the entertainment sector in Nigeria.
Journey in the Entertainment Industry
“My name is Ibrahim Malami, and I’ve been in the entertainment industry for over two decades,” begins the charismatic new AGN chairman. Born and raised in Kano State, Malami attended local primary and secondary schools before moving on to the National Film Institute in Jos, Plateau State. He later earned a degree in Mass Communication from Hallmark Institute of Photography.
After his studies, Malami returned to Nigeria and began his career with Africa Magic, working as a director and producer. He eventually transitioned to an independent career, becoming a prominent figure in both Kannywood and Nollywood.
“I featured in movies like Kwana Casa’in, Labarina, Izzar So, and Sanda—across both Kannywood and Nollywood industries,” Malami recalls.
Passion for the Entertainment Industry
Malami’s love for the entertainment industry started at a young age, with a deep passion for music. “My passion for the entertainment industry became an obsession,” he explains, crediting this drive for pushing him into the film industry. His time at the Film Institute in Jos solidified his desire to become a filmmaker and actor, a journey that led to him becoming a household name in both northern and southern Nigerian film circles.
Kannywood and Nollywood: A Unified Vision
Having worked extensively in both Kannywood and Nollywood, Malami sees them as his “professional parents.” He believes that these two cinematic entities have the potential to be the talk of the world, and he has plans to bridge the gap between them.
“We want to create synergy between Kannywood and Nollywood, based on shared cultural values and traditions,” Malami says. His administration as the newly elected AGN Chairman is focused on upgrading the Kannywood industry to global standards, ensuring that Nigerian films reflect the nation’s rich culture and traditions.
One of his key strategies includes expanding the reach of Kannywood by incorporating English into their films. “We plan to start shooting Kannywood movies in English to reach wider audiences,” Malami reveals. He hopes that these efforts will elevate both Kannywood and Nollywood to new heights, making them global cinematic powerhouses.
Challenges in the Entertainment Industry
According to Malami, the major challenges facing the entertainment industry in Nigeria are funding and a lack of investment from both the government and the private sector. “The private sector is willing to invest, but the system is unstable,” he notes, stressing the need for government support to build confidence among investors.
Another pressing issue is the lack of professionalism in the industry. “We plan to address this by ensuring that all practitioners meet professional standards,” Malami explains. His administration is set to introduce reforms aimed at improving the quality and professionalism of the Nigerian entertainment sector.
Relations with the Kano State Censorship Board
Kannywood has had its share of issues with the Kano State Censorship Board, but Malami is optimistic about fostering a healthy relationship with the regulatory body. “I have a good relationship with Abba Almustapha, the head of the board,” Malami states, adding that he believes Almustapha’s leadership, as a fellow practitioner, will help in resolving any disputes.
Malami envisions a collaborative future where Kannywood and the Censorship Board work together harmoniously to move the industry forward. “With the innovations we plan to present, I’m sure we will achieve a cordial relationship between the two bodies.”
The Role of TikTokers in the Industry
When asked about the rise of TikTokers in the entertainment scene, Malami acknowledges their presence but criticizes their lack of professionalism. “TikTokers are part of the industry, but they act like untrained doctors prescribing the same medication for all ailments,” he says.
To address this, Malami advocates for regulating social media entertainers. “Actors are role models, and there’s a need to regulate them to protect future generations,” he insists.
Current Projects and Future Plans
Malami is not just focused on industry reforms; he is also working on a groundbreaking project that could garner international attention. “We are currently working on a movie addressing health-related issues, which will require the involvement of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Kano State government, and UNICEF,” he shares.
The film, which he hopes to premiere in Kano, is aimed at raising awareness on critical health matters, further demonstrating his commitment to using film as a tool for social good.
A Vision for the Future
Ibrahim Malami’s vision for the entertainment industry is ambitious yet grounded in a passion for Nigerian culture and storytelling. His mission to modernize Kannywood, bridge the gap with Nollywood, and bring professionalism and international recognition to the industry is a testament to his dedication.
With his background in both acting and directing, Malami brings a wealth of experience to his new role as the Chairman of AGN in Kano. As he works to address the challenges facing the industry, Malami’s leadership could well transform Kannywood and Nollywood into globally recognized forces in cinema.
In his own words: “We are the giant of Africa for a reason, and it’s time the world understands that.”
