The President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Emeka Rollas, recently emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for Nollywood actors. Speaking at the 2025 Annual Health Walk and Wellness Campaign in Abuja, he noted that many actors have been facing serious health challenges in recent years. This makes the call for a healthier lifestyle more important than ever.
The campaign kicked off at the Old Parade Ground, drawing significant attendance from Nollywood stars. Rollas pointed out that the demanding nature of filmmaking often leaves actors little time to focus on their health. He encouraged them to be proactive, recognize health warning signs, and seek help early to avoid emergencies that could have serious consequences.
“One of the dangers of not knowing your health status is that when sickness hits, it can turn into an emergency,” he warned. Since starting the health walk three years ago, the guild has encouraged state chapters to hold similar events. The initiative arose after noticing that many actors were seeking online assistance for health issues. Rollas believes that being proactive about health can lead to substantial improvements.
“Over the past three years, we’ve seen a significant drop in actors needing to appeal online for support,” he shared. Rollas highlighted that more members are now signing up for the guild’s health insurance program, leading to improved health awareness across the industry.
The Walk and Wellness Campaign is not just about physical activity; it includes various activities promoting well-being, such as medical screenings and mental health discussions. Attendees have access to test kits for conditions like malaria, HIV, and high blood pressure to better understand their health status.
The FCT Mayor of AGN expressed satisfaction with the turnout, noting that actors increasingly understand the importance of their health. Despite their busy schedules, she urged them to prioritize regular check-ups, at least once a year.
Empress Njamah, a popular actress, echoed the sentiment, pointing out that while the guild promotes healthy living, individual responsibility is crucial. “Once you’re 18 and above, you should know that good health is key,” she said. “It’s embarrassing to see colleagues asking for funds due to health issues.”
Benedict Johnson, another well-known actor, called the health campaign essential for all actors. “Many people walk around unaware of their health status, which can lead to unexpected health crises,” he explained. The event not only raises awareness but also reinforces the idea that regular physical activity and health screenings are vital.
This initiative has gained momentum amid rising concerns about health in the entertainment industry. According to a recent survey by the World Health Organization (WHO), many performers are at risk of burnout and chronic illnesses due to the pressures of their profession. The Actors Guild is effectively countering this trend with ongoing health awareness campaigns.
As these events continue, the momentum towards a healthier Nollywood seems promising, signaling a positive shift in how actors view their health in relation to their demanding work. For more information on health initiatives, you can visit the World Health Organization’s website.
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Source linkNollywood
