November 28, (THEWILL) – The National Film and Video Censors Board recently concluded a two-day capacity-building event in Lagos, aimed at equipping youths and undergraduates with essential skills for Nigeria’s burgeoning creative industry.
The programme brought together over 300 students from five higher institutions in Lagos, including the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Yaba College of Technology, Lagos State University, Trinity University, and Lagos State University of Science and Technology.
Participants engaged in workshops covering directing, cinematography, acting, screenwriting, costume design, and art creative design.
Julie McKay, the Public Affairs Officer of the U.S. Consulate in Lagos, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing Nigeria’s rising prominence in the global creative landscape.
“African creatives, especially Nigerians, are now in the spotlight. I firmly believe the next Oscar winner might come from Nigeria,” McKay stated.
She highlighted ongoing collaborations between the U.S. and Nigeria, such as partnerships with the Kunle Afolayan Production Academy, where U.S. experts conduct masterclasses for filmmakers.
She also outlined other U.S.-sponsored programmes benefiting Nigerian creatives, including the Script to Screeninitiative, a year-long scriptwriting course, and a music mentorship programme for producers.
The event’s chairman, Toki Mabogunje, underscored the importance of equipping young people with the skills to create and critically evaluate media content. “This initiative empowers our youths to shape narratives and leverage their creative potential for economic and cultural impact,” she said.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, the Executive Director of the NFVCB, urged students to seize the opportunity to refine their talents and interact with industry experts. “This forum is a dream come true for me as a creative professional. I commend the experts who dedicated their time to guide these students,” he said.
Participants were tasked with creating a short film themed “Naija Spirit.”
The competition saw students winning cash prizes of N100,000, N50,000, and N25,000 for outstanding entries. Certificates of participation were also awarded by Dr. Husseini and other NFVCB directors.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering Nigeria’s creative talents, providing a platform for students to showcase their skills while gaining practical experience.
Ivory Ukonu is a versatile journalist with many years of experience, with entertainment and society reporting as her area of core competence.
