Speaking on a panel session about building a sustainable ecosystem for Nigerian comics at the maiden edition of the Geek Pop-Up event held in Lagos on 29 June 2024, Nufi Nkom, a multi-talented artist and co-creator of the award-winning comic novel MManwu – Spirits Among Us, highlighted the repetitive nature of superhero storylines in comics.

Nufi stated, "People don't really enjoy repetitive things because you already know the pattern: this guy has power, this guy is the bad guy, you attack me, I'll come back, I'll attack you back, I'll win, story finished. Another person comes up with a similar pattern – it's repetitive."

Nufi believes that there is ample room for more uniqueness and creativity by tapping into African history, culture, and stories. He said, "We need to find ways to come up with creative stories that will capture people's minds. In Nigeria, we have many stories, even from your neighbourhood, with a lot happening. Use these to create stories. You have historical stories, and although they don't have to be exactly the same as history, they should depict reality." 

The other panelists explored several reasons why stories beyond superheroes need to be told. Examples included foreign studios adapting novels into comic books and motion pictures, as well as incorporating African-inspired content and characters like Anansi in popular American series such as American Gods.

From the audience perspective, Blessing Ossom, a digital artist and colourist of the MManwu graphic novel, noted that while superhero storylines are still admired, especially when they incorporate African heritage, there is a strong desire for more diverse narratives. She said, "As an audience, we love superhero comic books with Nigerian heritage, but we also want to see more than just superheroes. We want stories about village leaders leading their people to victory, something grounded in our heritage or history, with meaningful lessons."

Nufi further explained that creating a compelling story involves more than just the artist. He stressed the importance of other experts, such as writers, colourists, and marketers, who collectively contribute to the ecosystem. He said, "Let's not focus only on those drawing and colouring. We should also focus on those coming up with the stories. You can't do everything by yourself. Find someone who knows how to write good stories, collaborate, and find someone who knows marketing. Even if you have to pay them, it will help get your book out there."

Expounding on the sustainability of the comic ecosystem, another panelist, Owoade Ifeoluwa, the artist of the MManwu comic novel, emphasised the need for a structure that guarantees a professional pathway for anyone interested in the industry. He said, "I thought I would be the first to create comics in Nigeria, not realising others were already in the game because there was no visibility or accessibility. Young people with skills don't know how to navigate the industry. It's our duty to shape the industry so everyone knows what to do and how to follow a particular path."

The moderator of the panel session, Elochukwu Confidence, introduced several sub-topics, including marketing, public relations, and business, all relating to the Nigerian comic industry. These were discussed extensively throughout the session.