Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has called for international support and collaboration to enhance the Nigerian Film Corporation’s (NFC) contribution to the country’s economic growth, and create meaningful opportunities for young people.
During a courtesy visit by NFC officials led by Managing Director Dr. Ali Nuhu, Bagudu highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic establishment of the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy, recognising the creative industry’s significant role in employment and economic development.
According to a statement by the Ministry spokeswoman Julie Osaige-Jacobs, Bagudu urged the NFC to explore opportunities for youth in the creative sector and seek partnerships with organisations such as KOICA of South Korea, Japan, and the French Embassy.
He praised Dr. Nuhu as a change-maker using his creativity to promote positive messages and resilient Nigerians.
Dr. Nuhu, in turn, requested increased budgetary allocation to support the NFC’s goals, including maintaining liaison offices, developing the NFC permanent site, enhancing staff capacity, and recruiting new personnel.
The NFC a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, is mandated to develop a strong film industry and cinema culture in Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s socio-economic progress.
It is currently transforming to align with the African Union charter on communication and audio-visual, aiming to evolve into a Film Commission.