A founding father of the Hausa film industry, Kabiru Abubakar Aliyu, popularly known as Nakwango, has urged Kannywood filmmakers to prioritise cultural values and moral lessons in their productions.
Nakwango, who joined stage drama in the 1970s before venturing into filmmaking in the mid-1990s, told Daily Trust in Kano that most Hausa films being produced today do not adequately reflect the traditions and identity of the Hausa people.
“Most films today are only in the Hausa language, but they are not Hausa films. A true Hausa film should showcase who we are, our way of life and our values,” he said.
He explained that even simple elements such as court scenes should reflect Hausa customs, like separate seating for men and women, while language use should maintain proper Hausa free from vulgarity or unnecessary code-switching.
According to him, filmmakers in other parts of the world use their cinema to project culture and national pride, stressing that Kannywood should not be different.
“If a white man makes a film, he will highlight his culture, lifestyle and national strength to impress the world. We too must show our identity with pride, not copy foreign styles of violence or indecency,” Nakwango said.
The veteran actor, who also doubles as a schoolteacher, said he had reduced his involvement in filmmaking but would still feature in movies that promote morality, faith, and cultural heritage.
He emphasised the need for guidance from government, scholars and community leaders, noting that the lack of such mentorship left the industry entirely in the hands of the youth.
“There are good and bad people in every profession. What is needed is proper engagement with filmmakers, not condemnation. The government should help direct the industry towards unity and respect for our culture,” he added.
Nakwango recalled that Hausa films had positively impacted many lives, citing an instance where a couple on the verge of divorce reconciled after watching a film.
He advised young actors to fear God, respect their culture, and forgive one another, while urging the public not to rush into judging artistes unfairly.