Nollywood a major economic driver if properly harnessed —MD NFC

As part of the contribution of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) to make the film industry in the country drive the growth of Nigeria economy, the Corporation has taken some decision to fast track the development of the Nigeria motion picture industry with a view of addressing the need of the sector saying Nigeria Film Industry is also a major economic driver if properly harnessed.

The Managing Director of NFC, Dr. Chidia Maduekwe stated this on Monday while addressing newsmen in Jos as part of the activities lined up towards commissioning of Students’ Halls of residence at the National Film Institute Jos, Plateau State.

According to him, to achieve this, the management of the Corporation has embarked on diagnostics visit of the web of film production activities across the length and breadth of the country. Adding, the Corporation had visited Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Calabar as well as other government agencies at the state and federal level.

He stated that film is not just a driver of economic growth but also an opportunity to bring real prestige to a nation adding that it also provides income generating opportunities as well, enables social development by providing safe, creating space for new voices and ideas.

“The interaction with stakeholders has largely been very successful. We have gotten reassuring reactions, commitments and positive indications of goodwill we open up the space for all stakeholders to have a place in our renewed efforts as repositioning the Nigeria motion picture industry for greater achievements,” he said

The Managing Director said NFC is more determined to bring to bear its statutory responsibilities in the industry and bring on board programmes and activities that will sustain the enviable gain recorded adding that this is in line with the clamour for diversify economy in the face recession.

Dr. Maduekwe said, part of the renaissance for the industry are training, skill acquisition, manpower development and professionalism adding that the corporation has also provided responsible leadership in this regard in the last twenty years following the establishment of NAFIMAS.

He added that NFC remained committed to upgrading of facilities, training and manpower at the Institute to make a reference film Institute in Africa adding that the commissioning of the Male and Female halls of residence which will take place on Thursday is an indication of its commitment.