Reps Project $73M Annual Boost from Nollywood, Back New Film Institute in Ebonyi

…Say Initiative Will Drive Employment, Economic Growth with AI Integration

By Comfort Olayinka

The Nigerian film industry is poised to generate $73 million annually, according to the House of Representatives, which has also thrown its weight behind the proposed establishment of the National Institute of Film and Media Technology in Ukawu, Ebonyi State.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Hon. Amos Magaji, stated this during a one-day public hearing organized by the House Committee on National Orientation, Ethics, and Values.

He highlighted Nollywood’s growing contribution to national development, noting that the creative industry currently accounts for 7% of Nigeria’s GDP and remains the largest employer of labor.

Abbas emphasized that the new institute will integrate artificial intelligence into film production and help bridge the skill gap in the industry, thereby spurring economic growth and employment.

Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Steve Olusola Fatoba, also pledged legislative support for the establishment of the Ebonyi-based institute, citing the inadequacy of the only existing National Film Institute in Jos, Plateau State.

Stakeholders, including the Nigeria Law Reform Commission, echoed support for a stronger legal framework to position the industry for global competitiveness.

He further said that the only existing national film institute located in Jos Plateau State is inadequate to cater for the needs of the film industry in Nigeria.

At the hearing, some other lawmakers and critical stakeholders including the Nigeria Law Reform Commission backed the need for a strong legal framework for the film industry in Nigeria