Introduction to the Dialogue
An award-winning Nigerian-Canadian actor, Lucky Ejim, has urged Nollywood filmmakers to use their crafts in promoting positive national values, with a focus on nation-building. Ejim spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline of the January edition of the monthly Reading and Writers Dialogue, held over the weekend in Abuja.
The Reading and Writers Dialogue
The dialogue, held at the Mamman Vatsa’s Writers Village, is a flagship initiative of the Abuja chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), which assembles writers, literary enthusiasts, and other creatives. Ejim featured as the special guest for the January edition of the dialogue, with the theme, “The Power of the Theatre and Film in Shaping Human Progress.”
The Role of Filmmakers in Nation Building
According to him, in an increasingly globalized world, films have become a pivotal instrument for nations to communicate their identity, making it crucial to understand their influence. The Toronto-based filmmaker urged Nollywood filmmakers to emulate how Nollywood depicts American heroism and influence other nations through the screen. He said that history holds both writers and filmmakers as torchbearers of change, daring to challenge the status quo, and inspire actions for positive change.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Nigerian Film Industry
“There is no doubt that Nigerian filmmakers have so many hurdles to go through in telling some thought-provoking stories. But as the voice of the society, as the voice of the voiceless, as the custodians of history, the filmmakers and other creatives owe it to the society to keep speaking. Because there are so many people that are powerless, and if the custodians of history do not help in getting their voices out there, they will drown,” he said. The filmmaker noted that the Nigeria film industry ecosystem has evolved and engaged teeming youths, and was now contributing significantly to the national economy.
Call for Investment and Support
He, consequently, called for increased investment and support to boost the industry’s potential through government policies, infrastructure development, and adequate funding. “If you look at the amount of skit makers in Nigeria that have been produced, they are by-products of the Nigerian film industry. That’s what gave them the leverage to say that some of these things are possible, and they are now using the tools available to take it to the next level. Nigeria produces close to 2,500 films a year, where 99 per cent of that is self-funded, and that is an incredible feat. Hopefully down the road, when we have a co-production treaty in place, there will be more funding access and also allow filmmakers to have more tools to tell better stories,” he said.
The Association of Nigerian Authors’ Efforts
Earlier in his welcome address, Chairman of ANA Abuja chapter, Chukwudi Eze, said that the dialogue was part of the association’s efforts towards championing narratives that will usher in a better country for all. “This gathering is a meeting of minds convened under a timely and necessary theme; “The Power of the Theatre and Film in Shaping Human Progress.” The theme is not merely academic; it is indeed most appropriate for a time like this. In a world struggling with fractured identities, contested histories, and shifting moral landscapes, the arts remain one of humanity’s most faithful instruments for truth, empathy, and transformation,” he said.
Event Highlights
He noted that in this session, “Ejim joins an array of distinguished panelists to explore how theatre and film have shaped civilizations, from ancient communal storytelling, to contemporary world cinema.” NAN reports that the event featured a discussion panel, spoken word, and other activities by students, as well as the presentation of awards. Some of the participating students who spoke with NAN expressed thanks to ANA for the event.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Reading and Writers Dialogue provided a platform for discussion on the role of theatre and film in shaping human progress. The event highlighted the importance of filmmakers in promoting positive national values and nation-building. It also emphasized the need for increased investment and support to boost the Nigerian film industry’s potential.
FAQs
Q: What was the theme of the January edition of the Reading and Writers Dialogue?
A: The theme was “The Power of the Theatre and Film in Shaping Human Progress.”
Q: Who was the special guest at the event?
A: The special guest was Lucky Ejim, an award-winning Nigerian-Canadian actor.
Q: What is the role of filmmakers in nation-building, according to Lucky Ejim?
A: According to Ejim, filmmakers have a crucial role in promoting positive national values and influencing other nations through the screen.
Q: What is the current state of the Nigerian film industry?
A: The Nigerian film industry ecosystem has evolved, engaged teeming youths, and contributes significantly to the national economy, producing close to 2,500 films a year, with 99 per cent self-funded.
Source: nannews.ng
