Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, was filled with excitement for three days as film directors from across the nation gathered in the culturally vibrant capital for the much-anticipated 2023 National Convention of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN). The convention, themed “Charting New African Narratives,” took place from July 13th to 15th, 2023, at the prestigious Victor Uwaifor Creative Hub.
The event was a four-in-one spectacle, featuring the election of a new national executive, the induction of new members, the ratification of a new constitution, and the annual conference/launching of the first-ever DGN Academy Journal by the DGN Academy Conference Team, led by the esteemed Prof. Emmanuel Emasealu. Filmmakers, arts and culture administrators, culture enthusiasts, and thespians from all corners of the country and beyond came together to celebrate the heartbeat of Nigeria’s creative industry.
[media-credit id=10 width=300 align=”none”][/media-credit] Celebrating African Cinema: Directors’ Guild of Nigeria Convenes in Benin City for Historic ConventionDuring the opening ceremony, Dr. Victor Okhai, the President of DGN, expressed his profound gratitude to Governor Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki for his immense support to the creative industry and talent development, as well as to the Edo State Government and the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub for hosting the event. He also commended the partnership with Gabriel Igbinedion University, Okada.
The DGN conference, expertly anchored by Dr. Ovunda Ihunwo and featuring distinguished speakers like Chief Andy Boyo, Mr. Paul Obazele, Prof. Sunday Ogunbiyi, and Mazi Ugezu J. Ugezu, marked the launch of the groundbreaking DGN academic journal titled “Nollywood Practise.” This historical publication documents the growth and history of one of the world’s fastest-growing movie industries, boasting an annual output of approximately 1,800 films. The journal, a collaboration with Igbinedion University Okada, was unveiled during the convention, signifying a significant milestone for Nigerian cinema.
In his opening remarks, President Okhai emphasized the importance of preserving the history of the Nigerian film industry and ensuring that the nation tells its own story. He passionately stated, “Mungo Park was said to have discovered the River Niger, but our ancestors were already here before he came. That mistake will not repeat itself in our lifetime. We must tell our story, and the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria must do the same.”
The convention was not only an intellectual gathering but also a celebration of culture and arts. An evening reception hosted by His Excellency, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, Esama of Benin Kingdom, transformed into a dazzling feast and carnival-like event with cultural performances, drum ensembles, and generous gift-giving to the guild members.
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The Esama was appointed as the guild’s patron, and he graciously expressed his commitment to making arts and culture integral to all activities in his domain.
The convention attendees also had the opportunity to visit Osaretin Festus Isibor’s Deep End Villa and Event Centre at Obagie Rd., off Benin Sapele Road, as well as Deepend Hotels and Suites, opposite NTA, a renowned hotel in Edo State situated in the heart of Benin City. They were treated to a tour of Isibor’s state-of-the-art 20th-century film studio and a thrilling horror hunted house experience.
The convention reached its climax with the election of the new national executive. Dr. Victor Okhai was re-elected unopposed, securing 65 votes to lead the guild for the next two years. Uchenna Agbo was elected as the Vice President with 64 votes, while Mr. Perekeme Odon won the National Secretary position with 65 votes. Mazi Okoli emerged victorious in the Treasurership contest with 65 votes, and Jeremiah Onoge secured the position of Public Relations Officer uncontested. Additionally, Daniel Chukwueze was chosen as the new Provost, Gold Dappa as the new Financial Secretary, and Comrade Ofia Mbaka as the Assistant National Secretary.
President Okhai emphasized unity among colleagues and called on all members to work together to elevate the guild to greater heights.
The 2023 National Convention of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in celebrating African cinema and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.
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Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
