Assalamu Alaikum. I write this message not as a critic, but as a concerned journalist, communicator, and sister to the many youn...
Assalamu Alaikum.
I write this message not as a critic, but as a concerned journalist, communicator, and sister to the many young people who look up to northern creatives for inspiration, identity, and direction.
Recently, an episode of “The Glided Circle” podcast hosted by some Kannywood actresses—particularly a statement by Fateema Hussain, who claimed she cannot marry a man who would ask her to wash dishes and implied that men should "worship" women sparked serious concern.
This is not the first time such public statements from Kannywood personalities have generated confusion and backlash. A similar instance was when Nafisa Abdullahi made comments that drew strong reactions from northern clerics, scholars, and community leaders.
The Concern Is Bigger Than One Episode.
This is not about attacking individuals. It is about the danger of careless influence. Because:
When a celebrity speaks, it echoes across communities. Unlike the average person, their words shape behavior, values, and beliefs.
When such words misrepresent culture, religion, or reality, generations can suffer.
Many young girls now equate independence with arrogance or rebellion, thinking that rejecting housework or speaking down on men equals empowerment. This is a dangerous distortion.
To Our Nigerian Female Actresses: Redefine Independence and Feminism.
Let’s be clear:
Independence is not rebellion.
Feminism is not disrespect.
A truly independent woman is responsible, thoughtful, and grounded. Feminism, when rightly understood, promotes equality, dignity, and value for all not arrogance or entitlement.
The youth need role models who can balance ambition with humility, rights with responsibilities, and self-worth with cultural respect.
Before You Record Reflect
Before launching a podcast, starting a show, or going live, do research. Reflect. Understand the weight of your words. Fame without responsibility is dangerous. What you say today may build or destroy someone’s life tomorrow.
A Sincere Call to Kannywood Leadership. To the Director of the Kano State Film and Censorship Board Abba Almustapha, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) Ali Nuhu, I humbly call on you to:
Introduce mentorship programs and workshops to guide young creatives. Set content standards and value-based guidelines. Help actors and actresses understand that their purpose is not just to entertain but to educate and elevate society.
Kannywood Holds Global Cultural Weight. Today, Hausa is spoken and understood in many countries across Africa and beyond. Hausa films are watched not only in Nigeria but in Niger, Ghana, Cameroon, Sudan, the UK, and beyond.
This means the world sees Hausa culture through Kannywood’s mirror.
If we fail to protect and shape that mirror with wisdom and values, we risk losing global respect for our language, our women, our faith, and our future.
Why Not Learn from Other Nations?
Countries like India have used their film industries to tell meaningful stories that unite people, strengthen national identity, and even transform their economies. So, why can’t you, Kannywood?
In Northern Nigeria, many youth lack access to quality education both intellectually and emotionally yet they spend hours every day on social media. What they watch becomes what they believe. What they hear becomes how they live.
Let Us Not Add to Their Confusion
Let us rise to the challenge and lead with purpose. Let us use our platforms not to mislead, but to guide, inspire, and uplift.
Signed:
Hawawu Abdul Karim
Journalist/PRO Hadin Kan Hausa Da Hausawan Charity Foundation
Accra, Ghana.
No comments