Mr Ikechi Uko, Organiser of AKWAABA African Travel and Tourism Market, has commended the Federal Government for the support and prompt resolution of visa assessment issues for its foreign delegates.
Uko, in a statement, expressed relief that the knotty issue of Nigerian visa experienced earlier while planning the 20th edition of AKWAABA, was resolved quickly after disclosing same.
He specifically appreciated Mrs Kemi Nandap,Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS); Mrs Lola Ade-John, Minister of Tourism and Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, for wading into the issue promptly.
He said the intervention was made after disclosing the problem on a WhatsApp platform.
“I had made a post about my frustrations with visa for my delegates coming from all over Africa.
“I had complained that online visa on arrival was very expensive and the Nigerian embassies in East Africa were not giving visas, forcing everyone to go online.
“Some people shared my post with the Minister of Tourism and she called me to find out the details.
“After explaining the situation to her, she promised to engage her colleague, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
“I am happy to say that between the Ministers of Interior, the Minister of Tourism, and the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, they resolved the issues.
“My first delegates are arriving now and I am happy that resolution is not just for my event. The new measures will be applied across board to all African visitors to Nigeria,” he said.
Uko noted that Meetings, Incentives Conferences and Events (MICE), are more obligatory than leisure travel which was optional and Nigeria would benefit more by supporting MICE.
He said the 20th AKWAABA would hold from Sept. 22 to Sept. 24 at Eko Hotels Convention Centre and over 20 countries would be represented at the event
“Akwaaba, as the biggest travel expo in West Africa, has not been supported by the government in access, venue and hosted buyers programmes.
“So, this intervention by the Minister of Tourism is the first and is much appreciated,” he said.
The Ahmed Galadima Foundation, an NGO, has called for community involvement, education and other stakeholders coordinated effort in fostering peace and peaceful coexistence in Adamawa.
Dr Haphsat Modibbo, Founder of the organisation, who made the call at a press briefing in Yola, said traditional rulers, religious leaders and government agencies play crucial roles in peace building.
The event which brought together stakeholders in various sectors across the state has its theme: Adamawa’s perspective on peaceful and conflict resolution in North East Nigeria.
Modibbo said that the North East region encountered significant challenges due to insurgency, banditry and communal conflicts which led to loss of lives, displaced communities and shattered livelihoods.
According to her, “Peace cannot be imposed, it must be cultivated through diplomacy and involvement of all stakeholders.
“The International community, non-governmental organisations and private partners must partner government to provide education, humanitarian assistance and support for conflict resolution,” She said.
Modibbo said Nigeria was abundantly blessed with resources however, the lack of proper management and extreme disparity in wealth distribution led to violent extremism.
She further called on government to intervene in specific needs of the youth, as peace education and advocacy in conflict resolution were necessary for lasting peace.” She said.
Dr Bashir Aliyu, A Muslim Cleric, said to achieve a sustainable and peaceful coexistence in communities, Christians and Muslims must respect their leaders, be supportive and believe that everyone is from God.
Aliyu said believing in one God would eliminate disputes and misunderstanding while calling for more engagement among traditional, religious and youth leaders in peace building.
Rev. Joseph Babangida, A Christian Cleric said that religious leaders are custodians of authority saddled with the responsibility of initiating peace in times of conflict in their communities.
“Communities where people have lost trust in the government, religious leaders should stand in the gap, by bringing the conflicting parties to the negotiation table.
“They should be able to promote forgiveness and reconciliation among aggrieved parties, as God gave everyone room for forgiveness,” he said.
Babangida further listed education, advocacy for justice, community development, moral and ethical guidance as key components to peace building in any community.
Also speaking Dr Amina Mohammed, Lecturer, Federal Collage of Education Yola, said the importance of education and employment in achieving a peaceful society for the youths cannot be overemphasised.
Muhammed called on government to intensify efforts and ensure youths are engaged in skill acquisitions and sport activities, while advocating establishment of skill study centres at all higher institutions in Adamawa.
Dr Francis Awodoyin a Peace and Conflict Resolution expert, called for the introduction of peace education in schools in Adamawa, saying such knowledge would help instil discipline and peaceful coexistence among younger generation.
Speakers from various sectors of the economy including; education, community leaders, religious organisations, security, gender activist, among others, featured at the event. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced that the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX 2024), a premier event showcasing Africa’s vibrant creative and cultural industries will be held in Algiers, Algeria, from October 16-19, 2024.
The four-day event offers a unique platform for creatives from across the continent and beyond, to showcase their work, network with industry leaders, and explore business opportunities, including exhibitions, roundtable discussions, masterclasses, live performances, gastronomy showcases, music, dance, poetry, and other artistic expressions.
Launched in 2020, Afreximbank has committed a $1 billion facility for Creative and Cultural Industries, and has deployed specialized products for financing some CCI sectors, including the Film Financing Development Facility and the Music Development Facility.
The bank has also identified key gaps in creative production value chains and created interventions to bridge these gaps, with a focus on access to markets.
According to the organisers, this year’s event promises to be an exciting gathering of creatives, investors, and industry professionals from across the continent and the world over.
“CANEX WKND 2024 will feature an exhibition and market, roundtable discussions, masterclasses, live performances, and networking opportunities.
“The event is open to industry professionals, individuals, corporate investors, and governance bodies.
“It provides a unique platform for creatives to showcase their work, connect with industry leaders, and explore business and investment opportunities”, a statement said.
CANEX 2024 is part of Afreximbank’s Creative Africa Nexus program, aimed at supporting the development of Africa’s creative and cultural industries.
The programme’s objectives include increasing Africa’s share of global cultural trade flows, deploying specialized financial products, facilitating technical capacity programs, and advocating for harmonized regulatory reform.
Since October 2021, 80 Luxury African brands have benefited from Afreximbank’s access to market initiative, CANEX Presents Africa.
The bank has also engaged in trade and export development initiatives, showcasing Africa’s creative economies through the biennial CANEX WKND and CANEX at IATF (Intra-African Trade Fair).
CANEX WKND 2024 will further develop conversations and provide even more business-to-business and business-to-government opportunities. The event will be held under the theme “One People, United in Culture, Creating for the World.”
Organizers say registration for CANEX WKND 2024 can be done online info@creativeafricanexus.com to be part of the creative revolution in Africa!
“No one should miss this opportunity to be part of the creative revolution in Africa! They should simply register for CANEX WKND 2024 and join us in Algiers for an unforgettable experience celebrating the continent’s artistic spirit.” the statement concluded.
Alhaji Saleh Abubakar, the newly appointed Director-General and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Agency for the Great Green Wall, (NAGGW) has swung into action in a bid to ensure improvement of services of the agency.
NAGGW is a Nigerian federal agency under the Federal Ministry of Environment, established to address land degradation and desertification, boost food security and support communities to adapt to climate change in the 11 Nigerian frontline states of Sokoto, Kebbi, Kastina, Zamfara, Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, Borno, and Adamawa.
Abubakar, who was recently appointed by President Bola Tinubu, was in Kano on Thursday to meet with stakeholders in order to fine-tune modalities for better service delivery in the area of land degradation and desertification, boost food security and support communities to adapt to climate change.
The DG/CEO first met with University Consultancy Service community from the 11 frontline states to brainstorm in order to address challenges they face for better service delivery.
Briefing newsmen after the meeting, Abubakar reaffirmed the NAGGW’s commitment towards collaborating with the university consultancy services to enhance the quality of work within the scope of the responsibilities of the agency.
” We are partnering with University Consultancy Services to improve our work and have more collaboration.
” We have just had a meeting with them now and we will improve our work. We have built bridges.
” We realised that there were things done in the past. They were done over and over but the results are negative.
” We are going back to the drawing board. With the advices we received from the university consults gathered here, we are going to do it differently,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the university consults, Prof. Adamu Umaru Zubama from the University of Maiduguri, described the engagement as fruitful and noted that vital issues were brainstormed.
Zubama, who said that the consultants were facing challenges in so many areas of their work, expressed optimism that the new D-G/CEO would address the hitches for overall success of the agency.
Similarly, Abubakar proceeded to meet with field officers from the 11 frontline states at the agency’s headquarters in Kano.
Speaking at the maiden meeting, the DG/CEO said he deemed it fit to engage with stakeholders, including the field officers to brainstorm and bring out success and challenges in order to improve the services of the agency.
“I welcome you to the maiden meeting since my appointment as the DG. I am happy to meet you, the battle commanders, to interact in order to find the way out to resolve challenges.
“I have been going round to departments and found out there are a lot of challenges. That is why I decided to consult this tour to fix those challenges.
“We want to do things differently. I want us to agree on a common goal for the success of this agency.
“So, i implore you to open up your challenges, don’t hide anything because we are here to chart a new course for the agency. I am open and straight forward and ready to take action.
“We are going to take notes of our discussion here and when we go back to Abuja, we will sit down and analyze the notes and start action,” he said.
The field officers identified lack of synergy between departments and field offices as the major challenges .
They also highlighted that monitoring and inspection have not been spelled out in the agency, in addition to lack of logistics.
The DG/CEO after hearing the challenges, vowed to address them and improve on the success achieved so far.
Independent Hajj Reporters, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO), has appealed to the Senate to expedite its screening process to confirm the appointment of the new Executive Chairman of National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that President Bola Tinubu recently approved the appointment of Prof. Abdullahi Saleh-Usman as the new Chairman of NAHCON and the appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate
The National Coordinator of CSO, Malam Ibrahim Muhammed, made the call on Wednesday during the 2024 Hajj Lecture and Award themed, ” Stimulating Accomplishments, Evaluating Challenges,” in Abuja.
Muhammed urged the senate to convene an emergency meeting to screen and confirm the appointment of Saleh-Usman as the new Executive Chairman of NAHCON
Muhammed noted that timely confirmation of the NAHCON boss would save the Nigerian Hajj industry from eating away more valuable time and kickstart the implementation of the 2025 hajj operation.
He said, “Base on the Saudi Arabian Calendar for the 2025 Hajj, we have 134 days to the commencement of processing and issuance of Hajj visa from today.
“The first set of 2025 hajj pilgrims will arrive Saudi Arabia on April 29, 2025, which is approximately 237 days from today.
“Also the day of Arafat is projected to be on June 5, which is 273 days from today.
” More importantly, the commencement of contract with Saudi based service providers on service packages, choice and reservations of spaces in Mina will begin on October 23, 2024, which is less than 30 days from now.”
Muhammed expressed concern that Nigeria was yet to begin pilgrims’ registration when other hajj participating countries that operate three to five years hajj rolling plans have already gone far in registration of intending pilgrims.
He empahaised the need for the review the structure of hajj administration across the federating units.
This, according to him, will be achieved through legal and policy overhaul to create avenue for honest, competent and experienced people to superintend the Hajj and Umrah affairs in Nigeria.
“Anything short of this will amount to dancing around a cycle.”
Also, Prof. Wasiu Gabadeen, Deputy Rector, Hajj Institute of Nigeria, called on all critical hajj stakeholders to support the deployment of technology in hajj management.
He also emphasised the need to enhance professionalisation of hajj management as well as transparency and accountability.
On his part, Prince Aliu Abdulrazaq, the Commissioner of Policy, Personnel Management, and Finance (PPMF) of NAHCON, said the commission was working assiduously to come up with a realistic hajj fare for the 2025 Hajj to avoid seeking for subsidy. (NAN)
No fewer than 1,500 children in Lagos received academic materials from the women fellowship of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Rose of Sharon parish, in Ikeja.
The children within Ikeja and Shomolu communities were given school bags, mathematical sets, pencils, erasers, exercise books, water bottles and socks ahead of school resumption in Sept. 9.
Pastor, Chichi Obiagwu, Head of the women fellowship known as “Oaks of Righteousness”, during the donation programme on Sunday expressed excitement over being able to cater for the children.
Obiagwu said the kind gesture was targeted at relieving parents who could not afford the materials, considering the current economic hardship in the country.
“We are aware many people are not empowered to take their children back to school because of the economy and we know these are fundamental materials every child should have to enhance learning in school.
“It is only proper and ideal for a children to go back to school with vital materials as these, you don’t expect children to go back to school bearing their books on their hands.
“What we have done today is to empower our community. As a church, this is our Jerusalem and our area of influence.
“It is to ensure the blessings of God upon our lives is extended to members of our community who cannot afford these materials for their children and today, we are not disappointed, we had the crowd.
“It is a big project and we are not giving up on it, God has been helping us. We have put smiles on the faces of our children who are our future. They should expect more,” she said.
Also speaking, Deaconess Abisola Kalejaiye, one of the organisers of the donation programme noted that the gesture was also a strategy for evangelism, winning the children to Christ.
“For this, the most important to us is winning of souls, catching the children young,” she said.
Advising parents, Kalejaiye said “Children are our future, as parents and a religious organisation, we should help them by putting them on the right path.
“Education is an aspect of human life that can shape children’s life, so everything that would make their education seamless, we should try as much as possible to render helping hands.”
One of the beneficiaries, John Williams appreciated the kind gesture extended to him and his colleagues as he looked forward to a beautiful academic year. (NAN) (nannews.ng)
Organisers of IPADA Carnival, a cultural tourism programme, say no fewer than 1,500 African artistes are expected to perform at the forthcoming event.
Mr Salvation Alibor, Co-Founder, XPark360, a financial partner for the carnival, on Monday disclosed this during a stakeholders meeting, while unveiling programmes for the carnival, at La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.
The 14- day carnival slated to hold from Nov. 29 to Dec. 12, is geared toward promoting Nigeria and Africa to Africans in the Diaspora and those interested in tracing their roots to the continent.
IPADA is the Yoruba word which means ‘The Return’.
According to Alibor, the carnival scheduled to hold at the resort, will be an annual celebration of the return of people of African ancestry to their motherland.
He said the initiative had attracted the full support of the Presidency, Federal Ministry of Tourism as well as state governments.
“The IPADA Carnival seeks to celebrate the return of Africans in diaspora to their roots, having Nigeria as their entry point.
“The carnival will feature a music festival where about 1,500 artistes, cutting across the 54 African countries will be performing. It will be a celebration of the beautiful potential of Africans in music, dance, natural resources, arts and all.
“It is meant to open the eyes of Africans in diaspora to these potential which can be converted to wealth for the continent through collaborations and unity.
“We’ll have the Nefertiti Queen of Africa beauty pageant where the true definition of African beauty will be showcased.
“Also, the Ose Awards will celebrate Africans of great accomplishments in arts, science, philosophy, politics and other fields of human endeavour. The winner of this award will be conferred with chieftancy titles across African countries.
“We are going to feature one million Africa meal buffet where various African cuisines will be displayed,” he said.
According to Alibor, the whole essence of the carnival is for cultural promotion and to create the economy of tourism through IPADA.
He said the carnival was an opportunity to create community engagement, strengthen cultural diplomacy, empower the youth and enhance public image of states and goodwill.
“The carnival will feature beach durbar, stage plays, tours to tourism attractions, business unusual picnic and many more entertaining programmes,” he said.
Earlier, founder of the IPADA Initiative, Chief Wanle Akinboboye, said the carnival would be explored to transform tourism attractions within Africa.
According to him, tourism attractions abound within Africa but have yet to be converted to destinations for tourists to visit.
“Attraction sites can only be converted to tourism destinations when some entertaining activities are created within these attraction sites, such that shelter are provided and some other things that guarantee tourists’ comfort.
“With my over 40 years experience in the tourism space, I will be helping to transform different attraction sites to tourist destinations,” he said
It was Saturday, May 27th, 2023. The inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was just two days away, that is Monday, May 29th.
I and my friend, B.K Yakubu (presently the Commissioner for Information in Kebbi State) were seated at the back row of the expansive hall of the International Conference Centre, Abuja. It was the Inauguration Lecture, with former President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya as the guest speaker. In attendance was then President Muhammadu Buhari and Senator Kashim Shettima, now Vice President, who was representing then President-elect.
Just as the event came to a close with the national anthem reverberating through the conference centre, the dignitaries led by then President Buhari gradually departed from the hall. Tucked in the corner at the back row were myself and Hon. Yakubu. As the Vice President walked past our row with his retinue of security aides, we waved at him, not really sure if he would notice us or not. Just as our eyes met, he beckoned at me to come forward. I moved towards him, and he muttered what I considered a tall order to me. “Go get ready. You are joining me to the Villa. There is work to be done,” he said and continued moving.
B.K Yakubu, who clearly heard the then incoming Vice President, hugged and shook my hands, as the soon-to-be “No 2” walked away, piquing the curiosity of many who saw the now Vice President talking to me, and wondered what prompted Yakubu’s enthusiastic reaction.
For the next few days, as I processed the VP’s unequivocal instruction to me, lots of thoughts raced through my head. I kept reflecting on my life’s journey, particularly the first day I met with the Vice President. That was about 15 years ago as a young journalist with LEADERSHIP Newspapers. I took time to reminisce about my relationship with him; his support, humility and friendship over the years and why he was opting for me, an ‘Igbo man,’ to manage his brand, image, communication and publicity as the Vice President. It was a thought that really got the emotional side of me for a long time.
Upon assuming office, on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, I got a call requesting my curriculum vitae. On assumption of duty following my subsequent appointment, I proceeded to his office for my very first briefing, and I will never forget what he told me.
“Stanley”, he called me by my first name. “We will need to work assiduously to ensure the President succeeds. He holds me in high esteem. We cannot afford to fail him. I will not interfere with your job. I will give you all the free hand to do your job as best as you can. But there is a red line you all must never cross. So long as I am here and so long as I remain the Vice President, there will be only one President. You must never ever forget that. We all must know that we are all here at his behest. All our efforts must be directed to support him. This, I won’t compromise. Go get to work”, he told me in a calm but empathic tone.
Since I started working with Senator Shettima, it has been a new experience altogether. American politician, actor and the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, once said, “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” This observation aptly captures the incumbent Vice President of Nigeria in life and style.
Vice President Kashim Shettima together with his Spokesperson, Mr Stanley Nkwocha.
In his four-fold shot at public service positions – Commissioner, Governor, Senator, and now, Vice President – Shettima has demonstrated what is possible when a leader prioritises majoritarian principle (greatest good for greatest number) over narrow, pedestal and selfish interests.
For me, therefore, as the Vice President celebrates his 58th birthday, it is more than celebrating a number. It is more for me the opportunity and moment to reflect on his remarkable leadership qualities, which have endeared him to millions of Nigerians, contrary to some mendacious narratives about an imaginary and non-existent marginalisation of the Vice President, as well as pockets of tendentious mudslinging and smear campaigns targeted at mischaracterisation and projection of an illusory strife in the presidency.
Throughout his political career, Senator Shettima has consistently demonstrated the attributes of an effective leader, inspiring hope and progress at every level he has served. It has been an extraordinary privilege to serve as a Senior Special Assistant to the President (Office of the Vice President) under him, an experience that has profoundly impacted my life and career.
Working closely with the Vice President has been a masterclass in exemplary leadership, unwavering integrity, unalloyed loyalty and unrelenting dedication. His unshakeable commitment to Nigeria’s progress and his infectious optimism in the face of adversity have been a constant source of inspiration. His open-door policy and willingness to listen and learn have created a collaborative environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and growth.
One of his most remarkable leadership qualities is his ability to unite people across party lines and regional divides. His inclusivity, empathy, and compassion have earned him widespread respect and admiration. I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand his tireless efforts to drive meaningful change. From championing initiatives that uplift marginalised communities to advocating policies that promote economic growth and development, his impact is undeniable.
His leadership is characterised by a clear vision for a better Nigeria, which he implements with courage and strength. He has a unique ability to inspire and motivate others to work towards a common goal, making him a true visionary leader.
Shettima’s down-to-earth demeanor, genuine interest in others, and outstanding leadership skills have earned him admiration. The willingness to listen and learn from others is a testament to his remarkable empathy and compassion. He has a heart for the people, and his leadership is guided by a deep sense of humanity, humility and humour.
During his tenure as Governor of Borno State, VP Shettima demonstrated unwavering dedication to the welfare of his people, achieving significant milestones despite the challenges posed by the Boko Haram insurgency. His leadership was marked by courage, resilience and determination, earning him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most effective governors.
His commitment to inclusivity, promoting unity and peace, extends far beyond Borno State. He has bridged divides, calmed tensions, and fostered interfaith harmony, earning widespread admiration and respect. His leadership has been a beacon of hope for a more united and peaceful Nigeria.
As Vice President Shettima continues to inspire hope and progress, empowering youths and promoting economic development. His leadership style is a rare gem, marked by respect, teamwork and a willingness to listen and offer guidance. He treats all staff with respect, encourages teamwork, leads by example by demonstrating a true servant-leader mentality.
As we celebrate his 58th birthday, we honour a true servant-leader who has made a profound impact on Nigeria. His legacy continues to inspire generations to come, and his influence has touched countless lives. Shettima’s leadership is a shining example for Nigerians and leaders worldwide, demonstrating that effective leadership is not just about position or power but about serving others with humility, compassion, and vision.
For those peddling ludicrous conspiracy theories of a fictional rift in the presidency which, according to the schemers, has led to Senator Shettima being sidelined and stripped of his roles as Vice President, here is also an opportunity to know the facts. In the history of Nigeria’s Presidency, no Vice President has enjoyed the total confidence and full support of his principal like Shettima. In return, his loyalty to his boss, President Tinubu, as attested by well-meaning Nigerians who have been keeping tab with the goings-on in the presidency, is absolute and unalloyed.
In a political landscape where loyalty is often tested, Vice President Shettima stands out as a beacon of dedication and commitment to his principal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His unwavering support and teamwork demonstrate a refreshing shift towards harmonious collaboration, setting a positive tone for their administration.
VP Shettima’s recent praise for President Tinubu is heartfelt and genuine, describing him as a “good soul” and a leader Nigerians can trust. He has consistently demonstrated his loyalty through his words and actions, showcasing a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Unlike previous presidencies which were mired in protracted public disagreements between vice presidents and their bosses, VP Shettima’s approach is a welcome change. He has proven himself to be a true partner to President Tinubu, working tirelessly to support his initiatives and vision for Nigeria.
The illogical conspiracy theories of the VP being sidelined peddled in recent days are the direct opposite of what is happening here in Aso Rock. As President Tinubu’s administration continues to take shape, there’s no gainsaying that one key player who has been making waves is Vice President Shettima. Since assuming office, Shettima has brought a unique blend of experience, expertise, and energy to the table in support of the Renewed Hope Administration.
His background in banking and finance has proven invaluable to his boss in shaping the administration’s economic policies. His advocacy for fiscal discipline, investment in critical infrastructure, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has helped stimulate economic growth and development.
Shettima’s commitment to social justice and human development has also led to significant investments in education, healthcare, and social welfare programmes. His passion for empowering marginalized communities has helped amplify the administration’s social reform agenda.
As a proud son of the North East, he has ensured that the region’s concerns and aspirations are represented at the highest level of government. His influence has helped promote regional balance and inclusivity, fostering a sense of belonging among Nigerians from diverse backgrounds.
As we look to the future, may Shettima’s leadership continue to inspire a new generation of change-makers, and may his legacy forever shape the destiny of Nigeria, leaving an indelible mark on the sands of time.
Nkwocha is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications
(Office of The Vice President)
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Thursday, urged stakeholders in the film and television industry to collaborate and be innovative for the development of the sector.
Sanwo-Olu made the call at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Nigerian International Film and TV Summit, (NIFS), held in Ikeja, Lagos.
The governor, who was represented by Adebukola Agbaminoja, Executive Secretary, Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, advised stakeholders in the Industry to harness technology and new platforms, to reach wider audiences.
“Together we can elevate our industry to new heights and showcase the richness of our narratives to the world.
“The Lagos State Government stands ready to partner with you, listen to your needs, and to celebrate your successes.
“Let us work to create a thriving ecosystem for film and television in Lagos and beyond,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu commended the organisers of the summit for their commitment to the development of the creative Industry, particularly film and television in Nigeria and globally.
According to him, the summit is an important event that brings diverse and talented individuals, who share a passion for storytelling and the art of visual communication together.
The governor expressed the state government’s commitment to fostering an environment that nurtures talents, supports innovation, and encourages collaboration.
He said the Lagos State Government had initiated various programmes aimed at empowering filmmakers, providing grants, and investing in state-of-the-art facilities.
“Your presence here signifies the importance of our collective efforts in shaping the future of film and television, not just in Nigeria but across the globe.
“Lagos is not just a city, it is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and talents. It is a place where narratives take flight, and where the magic of cinema thrives.
“We believe that by investing in our creatives, we are investing in the future of our economy and our culture.”
Earlier, Ijeoma Onah, Chief Executive Officer of NIFS, reaffirmed dedication to the summit’s mission of fostering collaboration, innovation and growth in the Nigerian film and TV sector.
“Our goal has always been to provide a platform for industry practitioners to exchange ideas, develop partnerships, and discover new opportunities for growth.
“We are committed to ensuring that this summit continues to be a cornerstone for industry development in Nigeria, and in fact globally.”
She said tne important milestone among others of the 2024 summit was the deliberate involvement of colleagues and partners from Ghana.
“As you know, Ghana is our natural neighbour and we share so many things in common including our cultural heritage and other values that bind us together,” she said.
Also, Mr Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Ghanaian Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, lauded the organisers of the summit for their resilience and steadfastness over the years.
He expressed appreciation for the invitation to the event and the opportunity to present Ghanaian perspectives of the film industry to Nigerians.
He called for robust partnership between his country and Nigeria in the development of the film industry in both countries.
“Today, we convene not just as representatives of our individual nations but as custodians of a shared cultural heritage, heritage that has the power to transcend borders, influence global narratives, and foster unity across our great continent.
“African cinema has come a long way, evolving from local storytelling traditions to becoming a force on the global stage.
“Our stories are now being told not just in our languages but in the universal language of film, a language that is understood and appreciated by people from all walks of life.
“Nigerian cinema, popularly known as Nollywood, has led this charge with its prolific output, creativity, and resilience, make it the second-largest film industry in the world,” he said.
Mercer advocated for a Nigerian and Ghanaian partnership in film development and advancement of the industry, to drive economic growth, create jobs, and foster cultural exchange.
“To fully realise this potential, we must embrace collaboration across our borders, Ghana and Nigeria,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
