In an industry as vibrant and fast-evolving as Nollywood, one of the most commonly asked questions by aspiring writers and insiders alike is: How much do Nigerian screenwriters really get paid? Unfortunately, the answer is not as straightforward as it should be. Payment for screenwriters in Nigeria varies widely based on factors such as experience, who you’re writing for, the genre, whether you’re credited, and even how well you negotiate.
But here’s the truth—Nigerian screenwriters are generally underpaid compared to their global counterparts. However, there’s still money to be made, especially if you position yourself well, understand your value, and have an eye for the business of screenwriting, not just the art.
Let’s dive deep into the numbers, the tiers, and the realities of screenwriting in Nigeria.
The Payment Spectrum: A Breakdown
- Entry-Level/Amateur Writers (₦20,000 – ₦100,000 per script)
Many new screenwriters, especially those writing for low-budget producers or YouTube creators, often earn between ₦20,000 to ₦100,000 per screenplay. These scripts are typically short films or low-budget TV drama episodes. In some cases, new writers are paid nothing at all, especially when writing for exposure or submitting unsolicited drafts. - Mid-Level Screenwriters (₦100,000 – ₦500,000)
Writers who have some experience, a few credits, or who work regularly with certain production houses can command ₦100k to ₦500k per script, depending on the scope. These writers may be hired to develop Nollywood movies for DSTV channels (Africa Magic), YouTube series, or iROKOtv projects. - Professional & A-List Writers (₦500,000 – ₦2 million and above)
At the top tier, writers with proven track records, award-winning credits, or who work with major production houses (like EbonyLife, Inkblot, FilmOne, Netflix projects, etc.) can earn ₦500,000 to ₦2 million or more per script. In rare international co-productions or Netflix originals, writers may even be paid in dollars, in line with industry-standard WGA rates (though this is rare).
Factors That Influence How Much You Get Paid
1. Experience and Portfolio
Just like in any profession, your experience plays a huge role. A writer with five feature films to their name will naturally command higher rates than someone just starting out.
2. Who You’re Writing For
Independent producers working on tight budgets won’t pay the same as an established production company. DSTV/Africa Magic and Netflix projects typically offer better budgets, and thus, better writer compensation.
3. Genre and Length
Writing a full-length feature (90–120 pages) will attract more pay than writing a 30-minute sitcom episode or a short film. Likewise, high-concept thrillers or historical dramas may require more research and thus demand higher fees.
4. Ghostwriting vs Credited Writing
Many screenwriters in Nigeria work as ghostwriters, especially for producers who want to take full credit. These jobs often pay a flat fee, but you get no public recognition, which can limit your growth. Credited writers, on the other hand, can leverage the project for future gigs, awards, and reputation—which adds value beyond the immediate pay.
5. Negotiation Skills
Many writers undersell themselves simply because they’re desperate for work. Knowing how to negotiate and understanding the market value for scripts in your category can make a big difference.
Common Ways Writers Get Paid in Nigeria
- Per Script Payment: This is the most common model, where you are paid a one-time fee to write the script, with no future royalties or backend deals.
- Per Episode (for TV shows): Writers working on series for Africa Magic, Showmax, or other platforms may be paid per episode. Rates can range from ₦50,000 to ₦300,000 per episode, depending on the platform and the show’s budget.
- Writer-for-Hire or Ghostwriting: Here, you’re paid a flat fee to write a script on someone else’s idea, often with no credit. While the pay may be higher than starter rates, the lack of credit is a downside.
- Backend Deals (Rare): A few writers negotiate backend percentages, where they earn a percentage of profit or box office revenue. However, this is extremely rare in Nollywood.
- Retainer or Staff Writer Roles: Some media houses or production studios retain writers on monthly salaries, typically ranging between ₦150,000 to ₦400,000/month, depending on experience.
The Problem with Pay in Nollywood
Let’s be honest—screenwriters are often the most undervalued creatives in the Nigerian film industry. Without a script, there is no film. Yet, producers are more willing to spend millions on gear, locations, and actors than to pay a decent amount for a strong screenplay.
Why? A few reasons:
- Lack of understanding of the importance of story
- High supply of desperate writers willing to work for less
- Absence of writer unions or legal protection
- Focus on speed over quality
How to Earn More as a Screenwriter in Nigeria
- Build a Strong Portfolio: The more impressive your credits, the more you can charge. Start with small jobs, but always negotiate credit.
- Specialize: Writers who focus on specific genres (romance, horror, thriller, etc.) become go-to experts and can charge more.
- Write Original Scripts and Pitch: Don’t just wait for hire gigs. Write your own stories and pitch to producers. If your script is strong, you can negotiate for credit, better pay, or even co-producer rights.
- Network Strategically: Attend film festivals, pitch events, and industry mixers. A personal connection with a producer often unlocks better deals than blind emails ever will.
- Join Communities: Facebook groups like Nigerian Screenwriters Hub, Filmmakers in Nigeria, and others can help you find gigs and learn what others are charging.
- Know Your Worth: Charge based on your skill, not your hunger. Respect your craft and others will too.
In Summary: A Call for Industry Reform
Until Nollywood begins to truly value writers, we’ll keep seeing poorly written movies propped up by fancy cameras and popular faces. The future of Nigerian cinema depends not just on who directs or acts, but on who writes the story.
If you’re a screenwriter reading this, understand that while the road may be tough, there is hope. The industry is shifting. International interest is growing. Story is becoming king again.
So write bold. Charge fairly. And keep telling our stories with the pride they deserve.
Are you a Nigerian screenwriter? What’s the most (or least) you’ve been paid for a script? Share in the comments below and let’s start the conversation.
