Nigerian filmmakers are urging many unemployed youths to seize the myriad opportunities in the Nigerian film industry to establish themselves as entrepreneurs.
This plea was made during an interview held alongside the Inside Nollywood International Film Festival and awards in Abuja.
Renowned filmmaker and creator of Inside Nollywood, Muoma Obinna, highlighted that INIFFAA is committed to honouring the accomplishments of African creative talents in the entertainment sector.
He emphasized that amidst the unemployment challenge facing Nigerian youths, the film industry stands out as a feasible avenue capable of generating employment and fostering self-employment, provided that the youths actively engage with it. Obinna stressed that the festival’s objective is to encourage collaboration, celebrate cultural diversity, and propel the progress of African cinema onto the global stage.
“INIFFAA 2024 reflects the evolution and ingenuity of Nollywood over the years. It serves as a tribute to how Inside Nollywood has developed and how the narratives portrayed by Nollywood have influenced our society. INIFFAA 2024 promises to honour exceptional Nollywood productions, offering a coveted platform for filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals to gain recognition for their noteworthy contributions. It will also host various discussions on the creative economy, and I urge the public and anyone interested in the entertainment industry to participate in this event,” he remarked.
Veteran Nollywood actor, Francis Duru, commended the organizers for selecting the FCT as the venue for the event, citing it as a step towards attracting more film-related activities to the region. “Twenty years ago, the scenario was different, but today Abuja has emerged as a preferred filming destination, with the presence of cinemas and film festivals, which will contribute to its economic growth,” he commented.
Fidelis Duker, the founder of the Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF), one of Nigeria’s foremost film festivals, praised INIFFAA for its significant role in showcasing the business prospects within the Nigerian film industry.
He emphasized the global importance of film festivals as platforms for networking, collaboration, and the celebration of creativity, which ultimately drives economic development.
“This underscores the need for government support at all levels for events like this, given their substantial economic impact. The festival will attract visitors from various locations, who will utilize local transportation, stay in hotels, and patronize local businesses, thereby stimulating economic activity,” Duker concluded.
