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From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has promised his administration will continue to give support to the creative industry and prime Abia as a major hub for film production, entertainment, tourism, and cultural promotion.
Governor Otti made the promise in his office, at the weekend, when a delegation of Nollywood practitioners, led by Mr. Francis Ifeakandu, paid him a courtesy visit
Otti commended Nollywood for their resilience, creativity, and dedication to producing a film that seeks to showcase the rich cultural heritage, history, and development of Abia State, especially, Aba, the Enyimba city.
He described the initiative as timely and one that aligns with his administration’s vision of promoting investment, tourism, and economic growth through the creative sector.
The governor stated that while the government may not directly sponsor private film projects, his administration remains committed to providing the necessary support and enabling environment required for the growth of the entertainment industry in the state.
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“I am always careful about the promises I make. I assured you of support, and that support remains available. Government will continue to provide an enabling environment and work with stakeholders to ensure that initiatives capable of promoting Abia and creating opportunities for our people succeed”.
Otti recalled his experience when he was involved as a movie producer in the 1990s, stressing his understanding of the challenges and opportunities within Nollywood.
The governor revealed that his administration was pursuing plans to establish an Entertainment City in Aba, a project he said would provide world-class infrastructure and facilities for filmmakers, creative professionals, and investors in the entertainment industry.
The leader of the delegation, Mr. Ifeakandu, had earlier told the governor that his team is currently working on a film, “The Chronicles of Enyimba City”. He disclosed that the production team had successfully conducted auditions across all local government areas of Abia State and extended the exercise to neighbouring states and cities.
Ifeakandu noted that the project, described by industry consultants as one of the largest film productions in Africa, is designed to tell the story of Abia, promote its culture, and project its positive image to the global audience.
