The Influence of Nollywood Female Representations on Perception in Rivers State: An Analysis of Adire (2023) and Wura (2023)

This study investigated the influence of female representations of women in Rivers State, Nigeria, focusing on gender depiction in select Nollywood films. The study employs a descriptive survey research approach complemented by content analysis of two contemporary Nollywood films, Adire (2023) and Wura (2023), to explore the influence of Nollywood’s representation of women on perception in Rivers State. The findings reveal that while Nollywood films have made some progress in diversifying female character roles, traditional gender stereotypes such as women being primarily depicted in domestic, caregiving, and subordinate roles continue to dominate. These portrayals reinforce societal norms about women’s roles in Nigerian society, as suggested by Gerbner and Gross’s (1976) cultivation theory. However, the films also demonstrate emerging trends towards depicting women as more resilient, ambitious, and independent, reflecting shifts in societal expectations. Despite this, the portrayal of empowered women is often ambivalent, suggesting that Nollywood is still grappling with how to balance progressive and traditional gender narratives. The study concludes that Nollywood’s gender portrayal impacts social perceptions in Rivers State, perpetuating both progressive and regressive views of women’s roles. The paper recommends intentional gender-inclusive storytelling and policy frameworks to promote balanced and empowering portrayals of women in Nigerian cinema.