A delegation from the Actors Guild of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), led by Acting Chairman, Mary Edward, paid a courtesy visit to the leadership of The Punch Newspaper in Lagos on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. The visit focused on strengthening partnerships, exploring collaboration opportunities, capacity building, and other mutually beneficial initiatives.
Speaking at the gathering, Edward emphasised the importance of media in the entertainment industry. “As a professional body representing actors, we recognise the critical role the media plays in shaping public perception, promoting creative works, and preserving the integrity of the industry. We believe a strong relationship between AGN, Lagos Chapter, and The Punch will help amplify the voices of practitioners and promote professionalism within Nollywood. We are here today to seek collaboration, partnership, and mutually beneficial working relationships that will positively impact both our guild and the media space,” she said.
Addressing the delegation, the Director of Guild Services, Emmanuel Onyika, highlighted the guild’s plans under the new executive committee. “Since the onboarding of the new executives, we deem it fit to bring back the good old days of the chapter,” he said. “Although Lagos is well known as the entertainment hub of the country, without proper publicity and visibility, AGN cannot thrive as a chapter. Aside from collaboration with the media, we are also exploring partnerships with corporate organisations, security agencies, and government bodies.”
A question-and-answer session followed, during which members discussed the benefits of AGN membership, including film industry opportunities, health policies, pension schemes, and financial support. Onset discrepancies, such as unpaid overtime, poor accommodation, and inadequate feeding, were also addressed.
“The guild protects its members,” Onyika explained. “If an actor is not being paid, or proper accommodation is not provided, it is our duty to intervene. Productions that fail to meet these standards will not see the light of day. However, many actors shy away from joining the guild due to ignorance. They think they can manage on their own, but when issues arise, they turn to the guild for help — and sometimes it’s too late.”
Other executives present were the Public Relations Officer, Cornell Udofia; and Financial Secretary, Tunde Shado.
Leave a comment