Jide Kosoko Reveals Fear That Social Media Would Drive Traditional Actors Out of Business

Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has recalled the uncertainty that accompanied the rise of social media in the Nigerian entertainment industry, revealing that some older practitioners initially feared the technology could render them irrelevant and drive them out of business.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Kosoko made the disclosure while reflecting on the rapid changes technology has brought to the entertainment industry.

The veteran actor explained that when social media became increasingly popular, many established practitioners were concerned about its potential impact on their careers and businesses. However, he noted that they eventually adapted to the new digital environment, with younger colleagues helping older practitioners understand and utilise the technology.

Kosoko said the industry eventually turned social media into an advantage, despite the initial concerns among older practitioners. He also admitted that he is still trying to fully understand the emergence and implications of artificial intelligence (AI).

The actor said, “When social media came, we were afraid. Is this not going to kick us out of business? Is this not going to kick us out completely? But, I must say that eventually, we were able to scale through by virtue of the fact that most of our junior colleagues are computer literate, unlike people like us.”

He added that practitioners eventually learned to use social media to their advantage, while acknowledging that AI remains difficult for him to fully comprehend.

Kosoko has also spoken about the administration of President Bola Tinubu, appealing to Nigerians to allow more time for the government’s policies and reforms to produce results. He argued that it may be premature to make a final assessment of an administration while its programmes are still being implemented.

Speaking during an interview with FeelrightnewsTV, the actor compared governing a country to constructing a building, arguing that the outcome of a project cannot reasonably be assessed before it is completed.

Kosoko also acknowledged that President Tinubu, like any other human being, is not perfect and may make mistakes while governing. He further alleged that some critics and activists were influencing public opinion against the administration, particularly among younger Nigerians. These comments represent Kosoko’s own claims about the political environment.

He also acknowledged the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians but argued that distributing cash alone would not provide a lasting solution given the country’s large population. Instead, he urged Nigerians to give the administration more time to implement its policies and assess their effects.