By Johnson Adebowale
Trino Motion Pictures and the Nigerian International Film Summit (NIFS) have joined forces to launch the International Sales and Distribution Executives (ISDE) programme. The initiative, inaugurated recently, aims to equip local professionals with crucial expertise in the intricate world of international film and television sales, aggregation, licensing, and distribution.
The programme’s launch addresses a critical bottleneck in the industry. While Nigeria boasts a wealth of creative talent producing compelling content, many often lack the specialized knowledge to effectively navigate the global marketplace and secure profitable deals for their work. The ISDE programme seeks to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive six-month training curriculum that blends virtual learning with in-person sessions led by seasoned international executives with over 15 years of experience in the field.
Speaking at the inauguration and induction ceremony, Uche Okocha, managing director of Trino Motion Pictures, shared the genesis of the programme, stemming from the company’s own challenges in handling sales and distribution. “We encountered a significant gap – a lack of structured pipelines for professionals and inadequate training facilities,” Okocha explained. This realization spurred the development of the ISDE programme, underscoring the importance of “identifying potential, building capacity, and creating opportunities to build a sustainable film industry.”
The inaugural cohort comprises 12 promising individuals, including filmmakers, media entrepreneurs, and creative arts graduates, all eager to make their mark in the global film landscape. They are Adetayo Adebowale, Dr Sherif Adekunle, Ehinomen Azeta, Uneke Ekene, Faustina Okomayin, Lucy Adikwu, Mercy Akumute, Nneamaka Nwadei, Olatubosun Olasimbo, Precious Iroagalachi, Daleshawn Butler, and Temitope Sanni.
The intensive training will delve into the specifics of international sales and distribution across various formats, including scripted and unscripted content, TV formats, documentaries, and feature films. Participants will benefit from the insights of experts from key territories such as France, the UK, and Nigeria. Furthermore, the programme offers invaluable opportunities to attend local and international film markets and festivals, providing firsthand exposure to the global industry.
Ms. Ijeoma Onah, founder of NIFS, emphasized the necessity of balancing the artistic and commercial aspects of filmmaking. “People need to understand that film is a product, and if the right knowledge is in place, then we can begin to see sustainable businesses birthed,” she stated. Upon completion of the rigorous training, participants will embark on internship programmes with international organizations, gaining practical experience in real-world scenarios.
Godwin Nzekwe, the ISDE programme director, hailed the initiative as a “bold and timely vision to prepare, equip, and position African creatives for the global stage.” He emphasized that the programme extends beyond mere training, serving as “a launchpad for cross-cultural exchange, market access, and real transformation in our film and television space.”
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, executive director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), lauded the collaborative effort and highlighted the critical role of capacity building in fostering a thriving entertainment industry. He also informed the participants about the Federal Government’s Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF), encouraging them to leverage their intellectual property as collateral to access this vital financial support.
For the beneficiaries, the ISDE programme represents a significant step towards realizing their global ambitions. Faustina Okumayin, a filmmaker and media entrepreneur, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, while Olatunbosun Olasimbo described it as “heaven-sent,” anticipating a transformative learning experience. Adetayo Adebowale, who has faced the challenges of recouping film investments, sees the programme as a beacon of hope for a more rewarding future. Uneke Ekene, a Creative Arts graduate, aims to utilize the knowledge gained to contribute meaningfully to the industry, and Dr. Sherif Adekunle pledged to make the most of this invaluable opportunity.
As the inaugural cohort embarks on this transformative journey, the ISDE programme stands as a testament to the commitment of Trino Motion Pictures and NIFS to empower Nigerian creatives and unlock the vast potential of their stories on the global stage. With plans for an annual expansion, this initiative promises to cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals who will drive the growth and sustainability of the Nigerian film industry for years to come.