Willy Kanga Advocates for the Growth of Nigerian Animation Industry

Award-winning Nigerian animator and content creator Williams Etombi, popularly known as Willy Kanga, has emphasized the growing potential of animation as a powerful storytelling medium in Nigeria. Speaking in a recent interview, the TikTok Animator of the Year award winner highlighted the need for greater investment in the animation industry, citing its impact on entertainment, education, and social change.

According to Willy Kanga, animation is an untapped goldmine in Nigeria, with the ability to compete on the global stage if given the right support.

“For too long, animation has been overlooked in Nigeria, but it’s one of the most effective ways to tell stories, educate, and even spark conversations on social issues. The world is paying attention to African narratives, and we need to position ourselves to showcase our stories in a unique and engaging way,” he said.

With over 1.3 million followers on TikTok, 800K across Facebook, 400K on Instagram, 90K YouTube subscribers, and 70K followers on Twitter (X), Willy Kanga has used his platform to redefine digital content creation through satirical and socially conscious animations.

He also addressed the challenges faced by animators in Nigeria, including limited funding, lack of formal training opportunities, and the high cost of animation production.

“Many young animators have the talent but lack access to the tools and support needed to thrive. We need more investment from the entertainment industry, collaborations with global animation studios, and training programs that equip upcoming creators with the right skills,” he added.

Willy Kanga’s work has not only entertained but also educated audiences, addressing social, cultural, and political issues through engaging animated content. He believes that with more visibility and structural support, Nigerian animation could become a major force in Africa’s digital entertainment industry.

As he continues to push boundaries in the content creation space, Willy Kanga hopes to inspire a new generation of Nigerian animators to embrace the art form and elevate African storytelling to international standards.