Nigerian actress, Ini Edo has stated that the movie industry, Nollywood can help boost Nigeria’s economy if supported by the government.
The actress made the statement in a recent interview session with PUNCH.
According to Ini, Nollywood was the highest revenue-generating industry in the country.
However, some of its major challenges were inadequate public funding, and lack of the right structures.
The actress was asked to elaborate on her comment that the film industry was a doorway to Nigeria’s developmental problem.
Ini said:
“It is one of the highest revenue-generating industries in the country. It provides employment for millions of youths, not to mention the number of people taken off the street, and the huge investments.
“If only the people (in leadership positions) understand what the movie industry can be to Nigeria’s economy, I think the government will see to it that the right structures are put in place so that the sector can thrive.
“It is one thing to see (potential); it is a different ball game to do something about it. Imagine me having a production like Shanty Town, and I had to fund it myself. There was no support from anyone. The poor electricity supply is a problem, and the cost of production is very high. There is no way that it favours one.
“I mentioned the government part of it. Another aspect is funding. Funding seems to be a big challenge in the industry but I think things are changing because people can actually walk up to one and say they want to invest (in the industry).
“A couple of people have said that to me in recent times since Shanty Town was released. What that means is that if we keep improving and growing as an industry, funding would become less of a challenge.”
