Better filmmaking tradition in Nollywood by Shaibu Husseini
I am delighted to address this gathering of creative minds, who are shaping the narrative of our beloved Nollywood industry. I must thank the leadership of the Nollywood Creative Minds Forum (NCMF) for extending this invitation to me. I have followed the activities of the forum from inception and attended previous editions as a film journalist. Today, even as a regulator, I can affirm that the forum has created a veritable platform for strengthening the Nollywood community through networking and collaboration. The forum has also facilitated partnerships and collaborations between Nollywood creatives and industry stakeholders. I congratulate the leadership of the forum and urge them to continue to facilitate discussions on industry trends, challenges and opportunities, with a focus on shaping the future of Nollywood.
Today, I have been asked to speak on a crucial aspect of our collective growth and success: the pursuit of a better filmmaking tradition. As filmmakers, we are not just storytellers; but custodians of our culture, our values, and our history. Our work has the power to inspire, educate, and entertain. However, with this power comes great responsibility and, if you like, responsiveness.
In recent years, Nollywood has experienced tremendous growth, with a significant increase in production quality, audience engagement, and global recognition. This year alone, Nollywood recorded more highest grossing movies than the previous years. This year alone, we saw a 120 per cent surge in revenue at the box office and an increase in ticket purchase, thanks to the efforts of our filmmakers to improve on production quality and storytelling. However, we must acknowledge that there is still room for improvement both in storytelling and production quality.
But as we strive for excellence, we must focus on developing a better filmmaking tradition that prioritizes a. quality storytelling over ‘this is what is trending’: Our stories should be authentic, engaging, and reflective of our diverse experiences; b. professionalism: We must adhere to industry standards, best practices, and ethical guidelines; c. innovation: We should embrace new technologies, techniques, and ideas to stay ahead of the curve and d. collaboration: We must foster a spirit of cooperation, mutual respect, and knowledge-sharing.
To achieve this vision, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) is committed to providing support and resources to filmmakers, including a. capacity-building programmes and workshops (plans for a Producers, Exhibitors and Distributors Lab underway), b. access to funding and investment opportunities (letters of endorsement to those wishing to establish cinema, distribution and exhibition infrastructure and c. facilitation of international collaborations and partnerships.
Distinguished colleagues, the pursuit of a better filmmaking tradition requires a collective effort from all stakeholders. It is not just what only NCMF can do. It requires a deliberate effort by ALL to strive for the best for our industry. Therefore, I urge us to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity, innovation, and excellence.
Together, we can build a thriving film industry that showcases the best of Nigeria and Africa to the world.
I thank you for your attention
* Dr. Husseini, the Executive Director of National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), gave the keynote address at the 6th Nollywood Creative Minds Forum (NCMF) on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at Four Points By Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos
