From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
Ukawu community in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State will soon join the league of communities hosting specialised federal tertiary institutions.
The House of Representatives, recently, passed for second reading, a bill for the establishment of Institute of Film and Media Technology to be sited there. The bills were sponsored by Kama Nkemkamma, member representing Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State.
Leading the debate on one of the bills, Nkemkamma said the institute, if established, will help to harness the potential in Nigeria’s film and creative industry.
The lawmaker said Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, is presently ranked as the second largest film industry in the world, after Hollywood, stating that a specialised institute for the training of practitioners will further enhance the industry.
“It represents a strategic move towards harnessing the immense potential of Nigeria’s film and media industry, which has shown remarkable growth over the past decade. It is essential to recognise the significance of Nollywood within the global entertainment landscape.
“Nollywood ranks as the second-largest film industry in the world after Hollywood, with a staggering financial valuation exceeding $6.4 billion. This places it among the fastest-growing movie industries globally and highlights its role as one of Nigeria’s largest employers,” he said.
The lawmaker said it has become imperative to establish an institution dedicated to the training of persons interested in pursuing careers in the film and creative industry. This, according to him, will go a long way in enhancing the impact of the nation’s creative industry in the country.
“The establishment of an institute dedicated to film and media technology will serve as a catalyst for further development in this sector.
“Nigeria is the leading African country in every respect, but economic development. Nigeria has an estimated active population of 70 per cent of the entire population.
“The proposed institute will provide comprehensive training programmes tailored to meet industry standards. By focusing on research and innovation, we can equip aspiring filmmakers, actors, producers, and technicians with cutting-edge skills necessary for success in an increasingly competitive environment.
“The curriculum will encompass various aspects of film production, including screenwriting, cinematography, editing, sound design, and digital media management. The institute, if established, will complement the efforts in cladding Nigeria with better image and reputation in the global rating,” he said.
On why Ukawu community was the preferred location for the institute, Nkemkamma said the secure and tranquil atmosphere prevailing in the area and Ebonyi at large, makes it a natural location for the institution.
“The security, serenity and peace of Ebonyi State lends its natural charms to creatives. Furthermore, establishing this institute will lead to significant infrastructure development in Ukawu and its surrounding areas. It will create job opportunities not just within the institute but also stimulate local economies through ancillary services such as accommodation, catering, transportation, and more,” he said.