Circuits Africa, a premium virtual cinema and content distribution platform, has introduced a Film Veterans Dignity Fund to support ageing actors and filmmakers who are no longer active in the industry. The initiative was announced in Lagos during a roundtable session with journalists, where the Chief Operating Officer of Circuits Africa, Mrs Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, explained the purpose behind the programme.
She said the fund, officially launched in January 2025, was created to honour and care for pioneers of the Nigerian film industry whose work shaped the sector and strengthened its global recognition. According to her, beneficiaries of the fund receive monthly stipends for life as well as a full health insurance cover. Eligibility is currently set at 70 years and above to ensure those most in need are reached.
“In January, we registered respected industry veterans such as Pete Edochie, Pa Lere Paimo and Idowu Philips, popularly known as Iya Rainbow,” she said. “They are already receiving monthly payments and have been fully enrolled in a comprehensive health insurance scheme with NEM Health Insurance.”
Bibowei-Osuobeni added that more filmmakers who meet the age requirement will be included as the programme grows. She stressed that the scheme responds to the challenging realities faced by many senior actors who struggle financially after years of service.
She noted that several entertainers who once inspired Nigerians end up without income in retirement, sometimes turning to public appeals to meet basic needs or cover medical bills.
She explained that Circuits Africa has committed 10 per cent of its revenue to sustain the initiative. This step, she said, is part of the company’s long-term plan to give back to the entertainment community. “Several veterans who once entertained and inspired Nigerians end up without a steady income in retirement, sometimes resorting to public appeals for support to meet basic needs and medical expenses,” she said, highlighting the gaps the fund aims to fill.
She noted that the organisation believes film pioneers deserve dignity and comfort in their later years rather than hardship after decades of contribution to nation-building. Bibowei-Osuobeni reaffirmed Circuits Africa’s dedication to social impact, stating that the company’s vision extends beyond content distribution to uplifting stakeholders in the creative industry.
