Okorocha To Establish Film Academy in Owerri

Posted by African Examiner Entertainment News, Latest Headlines Sunday, September 14th, 2014

From Ignatius Okpara, Owerri

Imo state government says it has concluded plans for the establishment of a modern and befitting Film Academy in Owerri, the state capital.

Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha

Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha, who disclosed this in Owerri, Saturday, said it was part of measures to promote the identity and cultural heritage of the Igbos.

He revealed the proposal when members of the Imo Chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) paid him a courtesy call in his office.

The Governor who stressed that the Actors Guild has a duty to promote the positive identity and culture of the people through their films urged them to remain inclined to impacting positive ideals to the younger generation.

He noted that acting was a natural gift to Igbos as over 60 per cent of actors and actresses in Nigeria were of Igbo origin.

Okorocha, explained that the Imo Film Academy expected to be an affiliate of Hollywood, would be a centre for training and developing of young talents in the field as well as empowering members to showcase their talents in script writing, film shooting and other activities that make up the movie industry.

The Imo Chief Security Officer urged the group to invite professionals to their field and utilize the serene environment provided in the State especially the Oguta Lake as a good shooting site for their films.

His words: “I want to grow this industry. Produce good movies which future generations can benefit from”.

Governor Okorocha also announced the provision of office accommodation for the Guild in Owerri and assured them of quick commencement of the Academy.

He told his visitors that his special Adviser and Nollywood star, Nkeiru Sylvanus would be appointed Acting Director – General of the Academy so as to carry out oversight functions in ensuring judicious use of the finance and other logistics.

The Interim Chairperson of the Imo AGN, Mrs. Nkechi Azubuike, who led the team, in her remarks lauded Governor Okorocha for some of his people oriented programmes in the state, especially the free education.

She thanked him for supporting the Guild and for appointing one of their members, into his cabinet adding that the gesture has brought peace to the state’s AGN.

The group used the visit to present a book to the governor on poems titled “MIXED GRILL” written by a member, Chief Fabian Adibe.