Lagos State Government has made a major statement on how it intends to help in growing the movie industry in Nigeria.
It wants to build what it calls a one-stop film centre that practitioners will find useful at all levels of the business.
The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Shuli Adebolu disclosed this at the graduation ceremony of the Pioneer MultiChoice Talent Factory Scholars drawn from across West Africa.
Adebola said, in a statement signed by Mrs Olayinka Ojo, the Assistant Director, Public Affairs in the Ministry, on Sunday that the one-stop shop was part of efforts to boost the film and entertainment industry.
She said that film makers would enjoy support from conceptualisation of ideas to the final product.
According to her, the state is blessed with beautiful locations that enhance the aesthetics of film production.
“Efforts are being considered to ensure the state has a one-stop centre that will ensure quality and timely production of films that meet domestic and international standards, which will grow the industry and also attract foreign investors,” she said.
The commissioner said that the present administration was committed to tourism and entertainment sector by ensuring that the state becomes a preferred destination for tourists and entertainment in Africa.
“Lagos is the 2nd largest in the number of films produced on the Continent.
“The state is therefore set to open her doors by creating the enabling environment, regulations and solid foundations.
“This will make the sector a flourishing one that can successfully rival the likes of Hollywood and Bollywood entertainment industries,” she said.
Adebola commended MultiChoice for its Talent Factory initiative, saying that the Lagos state government is ready to collaborate with the private sector and key stakeholders for the development of the industry.
According to her, this will create jobs and be a source of revenue earning for the state.
