Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has shown his commitment to the development of the creative sector in the state by welcoming German filmmakers on a cultural exchange programme in Benin City. In his statement, he promises to continue to support and provide an enabling environment and equipment for creatives to practice and promote their crafts.
Representing the governor, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Tourism, Uyi Oduwa-Malaka, assures the six German filmmakers a fulfilling time in Benin City, noting that all that is necessary for their training has been provided by the state government. The governor’s support follows his administration’s commitment to making Edo state a hub for creative activities, having only recently established the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub.
The lens training and workshop sessions, which commenced on June 28, 2021, at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, is expected to last for 21 days. The programme will culminate in the shooting of a short fiction or documentary by the two teams as part of the exchange programme initiated by the Edo State Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Tourism.
The commissioner expressed gratitude towards both German team members and Nigerian student participants for their eagerness to undertake this challenging task. He went on to emphasize that under Governor Obaseki’s leadership, Edo State is dedicated to establishing itself as Nigeria’s premier hub for film production.
She remarked, “The governor has launched the Edo Film Project and appointed Mr. Kabat Eseosa Egbon as the Team Leader. The State Government is also offering incentives such as complimentary lodging, transportation, and security to all filmmakers who are willing to shoot their films in Edo State.”
The visiting filmmakers were urged to explore various tourist destinations within the state during their program.
Iryn Omorogiuwa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, extended her best wishes for success in their endeavors and guaranteed that they will receive full support from the Ministry throughout their stay.
By Osaiyekemwen Confidence
