Renowned Nollywood filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has publicly expressed his distress over the escalating fuel prices in Nigeria, revealing that his businesses are incurring a staggering N11 million on diesel every four to five weeks. In a video shared on his Instagram, Afolayan appeared visibly burdened, detailing the financial strain caused by the recent hike in petroleum products.
Afolayan lamented the unsustainable costs, stating he can no longer cope without assistance. “I spent ₦11m on diesel in just 4–5 weeks. I can’t cope again,” he shared, highlighting how the jump in fuel prices from around ₦1,000 to over ₦1,500 per liter has intensified the burden. This comes amid broader economic pressures in Nigeria, where fuel scarcity and price increases have led to widespread complaints from citizens and businesses reliant on generators due to unreliable electricity.
Afolayan, known for acclaimed films like Anikulapo and The Figurine, operates multiple ventures that demand consistent power supply, including his production studio and possibly related facilities.
The video has sparked online reactions, with many sympathizing with Afolayan’s plight while others debate the broader implications of government policies on the creative industry.
As fuel prices continue to fluctuate—recently slashed by N100 at Dangote Refinery amid global crude slumps—Afolayan’s outcry highlights the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions to support Nigeria’s economy. The filmmaker’s vulnerability in sharing his struggles resonates with many facing similar challenges.