ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Senator Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta North) has announced a commitment of N200 million to support a talent discovery initiative targeted at nurturing young Nigerian creatives in the entertainment industry.
Speaking at the opening of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) office and the launch of its multi-purpose Super App in Abuja, Nwoko who also serves as Chairman of the AGN Board of Patrons emphasized the importance of investing in high-quality television series within the country’s film industry.
He highlighted the global longevity of iconic productions in countries like the UK, the United States, and Australia, stating “If you look at the UK, America, Australia, and other countries, you will find iconic series that have lasted for decades because of what they represent. A well-produced series can serve generations continuously.”
Nwoko, who is married to Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, urged stakeholders to begin taking deliberate steps toward boosting production value and unearthing new talents.
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“I want to use this moment to emphasise that this is something we must begin, and quickly. To kick-start the process and support talent discovery, I am committing N200 million. This fund is for our young creatives to take advantage of and build something truly remarkable,” he declared.
He commended the growth of Nollywood while stressing the need for both institutional and private support.
“You have done well as an industry, but I also believe that beyond institutional support, you deserve individual backing from those of us who believe in your potential. I am truly proud of what Nollywood has become,” he added.
As chairman of the occasion, the senator also disclosed that he is sponsoring a bill to establish the Actors Guild of Nigeria through an Act of the National Assembly, aligning it with other professional organizations such as the NBA, NMA, and NUT.
On his advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, Nwoko reiterated that alongside its oil-rich local government areas, “the next thing he highlighted was that Asaba is the home of Nollywood.”
“Many of you are deeply passionate about your craft. You are known globally. What you need now is just a little more support, to push the quality of your productions to the level of your peers in the UK, America, and beyond,” he said.
(NAN)
