The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, has called on Ali Nuhu, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), to create meaningful opportunities for youth within Nigeria’s creative industry. Bagudu emphasized the importance of collaboration with international entities such as KOICA of South Korea, Japan, and the French Embassy to advance the industry.
Bagudu praised Dr. Nuhu as a disruptor, highlighting his role in government to leverage his creative talents to convey positive messages of renewed hope and showcase the resilience of Nigerians. He stressed the need for support from international organizations and stakeholders to boost the economic growth of the country through the film industry.
During a courtesy visit by Dr. Nuhu and senior NFC members, Bagudu acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic establishment of the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy, recognizing the sector’s significant contribution to national economic growth. He noted that the creative industry is the largest employer of labor in Nigeria.
In response, Dr. Nuhu requested an increase in the NFC’s budget allocation to fulfill its mandates. He pointed out that increased funding would help maintain liaison offices, develop the NFC’s permanent site, build staff capacity, and recruit new personnel to replace the aging workforce.
Elizabeth Egharevba, Director of Economic Growth, echoed the minister’s sentiments, expressing confidence in the positive impact of Dr. Nuhu’s appointment on the entertainment industry’s contribution to economic growth.
The NFC, a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy, is tasked with fostering a thriving and enduring film industry and cinema culture in Nigeria.
