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Keynote Speech by Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director, NFVCB At the 5th Annual Gathering organized by the Nollywood Creative Minds Forum (NCMF). Four Points By Sheraton, Lagos, Nigeria

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Distinguished filmmakers, esteemed members of the Nollywood Creative Minds Forum, and honored guests, My friends in the media, Ladies and Gentlemen

 

I am delighted to address this gathering of creative minds, who are shaping the narrative of our beloved Nollywood industry. I must thank the leadership of the NCMF for extending this invitation to me. I have followed the activities of the forum from inception and attended previous editions as a film journalist. Today, even as a regulator, I can affirm that the forum has created a veritable platform for strengthening the Nollywood community through networking and collaboration. The forum has also facilitated partnerships and collaborations between Nollywood creatives and industry stakeholders. I congratulate the leadership of the forum and urge them to continue to facilitate discussions on industry trends, challenges and opportunities, with a focus on shaping the future of Nollywood.

 

Today, I have been asked to speak on a crucial aspect of our collective growth and success: the pursuit of a better filmmaking tradition. As filmmakers, we are not just storytellers; but we are custodians of our culture, our values, and our history. Our work has the power to inspire, educate, and entertain. However, with this power comes great responsibility and if you like responsiveness.

 

In recent years, Nollywood has experienced tremendous growth, with a significant increase in production quality, audience engagement, and global recognition. This year alone, Nollywood recorded more highest grossing movies than the previous years. This year alone, we saw a 120 percent surge in revenue at the box office and an increase in ticket purchase, thanks to the effort by our filmmakers to improve on production quality and storytelling. However, we must acknowledge that there is still room for improvement both in storytelling and production quality.

 

But as we strive for excellence, we must focus on developing a better filmmaking tradition that prioritizes:

 

1. Quality storytelling over this is what is trending’: Our stories should be authentic, engaging, and reflective of our diverse experiences.

2. Professionalism: We must adhere to industry standards, best practices, and ethical guidelines.

3. Innovation: We should embrace new technologies, techniques, and ideas to stay ahead of the curve.

4. Collaboration: We must foster a spirit of cooperation, mutual respect, and knowledge-sharing.

 

To achieve this vision, the NFVCB is committed to providing support and resources to filmmakers, including:

1. Capacity-building programs and workshops (Plans for a PRODUCERS, EXHIBITORS AND DISTRIBUTORS LAB)

2. Access to funding and investment opportunities (Letters of endorsement to those wishing to establish cinema, distribution and exhibition infrastructure

3. Facilitation of international collaborations and partnerships

 

Distinguished colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen, the pursuit of a better filmmaking tradition requires a collective effort from all stakeholders. It is not just what only NCMF can do. It requires a deliberate effort by ALL to strive for the best for our industry. Therefore, I urge us to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity, innovation, and excellence.

 

Together, we can build a thriving film industry that showcases the best of Nigeria and Africa to the world.

 

I thank you for your attention

 

Dr. Shaibu Husseini

Executive Director, National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB)

Entertainment

Fathia Balogun In Gay Mood as son graduates with first class from UNILAG

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Nollywood actress Faithia Williams celebrates her son, Khalid Balogun, who graduates with a first-class degree from the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

Taking to Instagram to share the joyous moment, Faithia posted a photo of Khalid along with a heartfelt message expressing her overwhelming joy and gratitude.

The proud mother praised her son’s dedication and perseverance, attributing his academic success to hard work and resilience. She also offered prayers for his continued achievements, wishing him happiness and fulfillment as he embarks on a new chapter in life.

In her post, Faithia wrote:
“Hmm, I’m short of words… Alhamdulillah! Alhamdulillah! Alhamdulillah! My darling son, @khalidgram__, I’m overwhelmed with joy and gratitude as I celebrate your incredible achievement! You’ve worked tirelessly and persevered through the challenges, and today, you’ve emerged with a FIRST CLASS DEGREE from the University of Lagos’ Creative Department!

“Alhamdulillah, my heart is bursting with pride and love for you, my darling son! As you embark on this new journey, I ask that you continue to be guided by faith, courage, and determination.”

Faithia’s heartfelt post not only highlights her son’s academic excellence but also reflects her unwavering support as a mother.

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Seun Oloketuyi Appointed as Member of the Advisory Board for Kaduna International Film Festival

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I am pleased to announce my appointment as a member of the advisory board for the Kaduna International Film Festival. This honor is a recognition of my contributions to the growth and development of Nollywood and the African creative industry at large.

 

The Kaduna International Film Festival, established in 2018, has been a beacon of cultural promotion, tourism, youth empowerment, and peace-building in northern Nigeria. As the first international film festival in the region, it continues to bridge the gap in the northern film and creative industry, fostering inclusion and growth across the nation.

 

I am committed to leveraging my experience and expertise to further the festival’s mission of celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and empowering young creatives. This opportunity serves as a platform to support the festival’s efforts in strengthening the film industry, both in Nigeria and beyond.

 

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the Kaduna International Film Festival for entrusting me with this role. Together, we will continue to elevate the creative industry and showcase the best of Nigerian talent to the world.

 

Signed:

Seun Oloketuyi

Founder Best of Nollywood Awards Chairman Advisory board Bon Awards and Advisory Board Member,

Kaduna International Film Festival

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Entertainment

‘Prison not pleasant,’ Bobrisky begs Burna Boy to pardon Speed Darlington

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Controversial crossdresser Okuneye Idris, popularly known as Bobrisky, has appealed to Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy to forgive fellow entertainer Darlington Okoye, also known as Speed Darlington, and to facilitate his release from prison.

In a series of posts on his Instagram story on Sunday, Bobrisky expressed concern about Speed Darlington’s welfare, urging Burna Boy to forgive him and arguing that 45 days in prison should suffice as punishment.

Bobrisky wrote, “I just want to mind my business this year and stay away from anything involving Nigerian celebrities, but my soft heart won’t stop me from thinking about many things.

“Please, Burna Boy, forgive Speed. Prison is not a nice place. I don’t think he has the money for the VIP section because it’s expensive.

“None of these people I’m using my platform to stand for did the same for me when it was my time. But you know what? Our hearts are different. I can’t stand seeing human beings hurt. I pray, Burna, please release him. Forty-five days in prison is enough punishment.”

Bobrisky also criticised fans for enabling Speed Darlington’s controversial behaviour and stressed the need for followers to hold celebrities accountable for their actions.

He added, “Fans, learn how to tell your favourites the truth when they are crossing the line. You all were applauding Speed when he was saying unpleasant things. Now, none of you is in prison with him.”

Speed Darlington was arrested in October 2024 over allegations of defamation and cyberstalking Burna Boy.

The singer was initially arrested in Lagos and transferred to Abuja, where he was detained by the IGP’s Intelligence Response Team in the Guzape area of Abuja.

After being released from police custody, he was re-arrested in November while performing at a show in Owerri, Imo State, just days after returning to the country.

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