Earlier today, Amb. Dr. Queen Blessing Ebigieson, the National President of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) Nigeria, led a delegation of national and state executives and stakeholders to the Enugu State Government House. The purpose of the visit was to discuss the pressing needs of film producers within the state and beyond.
In a meeting with the proactive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Ebigieson emphasized the significant role the film industry plays in youth employment. She highlighted the association’s national framework, which has the potential to provide numerous job opportunities as more individuals enter the Nollywood industry daily. However, she pointed out the critical need for financial support, specifically in the form of single-digit long-term loans, to sustain and expand these opportunities.
The delegation also addressed the necessity of establishing community cinemas to bridge the gap created by the declining use of DVDs and VCDs, which has affected a substantial portion of the local market. Additionally, discussions included seeking discounts on hotel accommodations for production teams and assurances of security for film projects within the state.
Governor of Enugu State responded positively to the delegation’s requests. He assured the AMP leadership that comprehensive security measures are already in place, making Enugu one of the most peaceful states in the country. The Governor also commended the association’s contributions to the country’s GDP and its efforts to reduce youth unemployment.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with both parties expressing optimism about the future. The AMP delegation left with confidence that their discussions would soon yield fruitful results, marking a positive step forward for the film industry in Enugu State.
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.