Toyin Abraham’s team has clarified comments attributed to filmmaker Kunle Afolayan about box office earnings, explaining that his reference to a producer making ₦10m from a ₦1bn or ₦2bn cinema gross was sarcastic, not literal.
The clarification came in a statement from Abraham’s manager, Samuel Olatunji of The Hype Agency, after the actress received multiple calls and messages seeking her reaction to Afolayan’s recent remarks on film profitability and promotion in Nollywood. The statement noted that Abraham understood Afolayan’s broader point about the difference between headline box office figures and actual earnings returned to producers.
However, some industry insiders had perceived Afolayan’s tone at his film premiere as dismissive of the hard work, financial risk, and sacrifices made by filmmakers, particularly women. The statement said that Afolayan later reached out to Abraham to clarify his comments.
“During their conversation, she shared her concerns about how the remarks could be interpreted, and he explained the context and intent behind them. The issue was addressed maturely, and both parties have moved on,” the statement read.
Abraham’s management dismissed claims that she had stayed silent because she doubted films could gross ₦1bn at the box office. They confirmed she has access to verified industry figures and has never questioned the credibility of reported numbers. The statement emphasized that Abraham’s main concern has always been fair cinema showtimes, which directly impact revenue and box office performance.
The statement also underlined that the ₦10m reference was clearly sarcastic. “No producer earns ten million naira from a one billion or two billion naira box office performance,” it said, urging stakeholders to focus on structural improvements in the industry rather than public disputes.
The clarification comes after social media buzz around Afolayan’s comments on modern film promotion. He had explained that, after accounting for revenue sharing, taxes, distribution fees, and publicity costs, filmmakers often earn less than 30% of total box office gross. He also confirmed speaking with Abraham, who understood his point about profitability and the pressures of promoting films today.
This statement reinforces that Abraham’s stance remains professional and measured, prioritizing industry growth over controversy.
