Veteran Nollywood actress, filmmaker and producer Steph-Nora Okere has urged players in Nigeria’s creative sector to work more closely together to unlock Abuja’s potential as a major centre for film production.
Okere made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, stressing that greater cooperation among filmmakers, government agencies, investors and other industry stakeholders would be crucial to developing the capital city’s film ecosystem.
According to the veteran filmmaker, Abuja has the potential to attract more film productions and creative professionals if stakeholders collectively address the conditions required for the industry to thrive.
She emphasised the importance of creating an environment where filmmakers can access the resources, partnerships and opportunities needed to produce quality content.
Okere’s position comes amid growing efforts to expand Nigeria’s film industry beyond its traditional production centres and create opportunities for filmmakers in other parts of the country.
The actress, who has remained active in Nigeria’s entertainment industry as an actress and filmmaker, has also been involved in projects aimed at promoting Nigerian stories and culture.
She believes that a stronger film ecosystem in Abuja could generate employment, encourage investment and provide more opportunities for emerging talents within the Federal Capital Territory and beyond.
The call also highlights the need for stakeholders to move beyond individual efforts and embrace partnerships capable of supporting sustainable growth in the creative industry.
Abuja, with its diverse population and status as Nigeria’s political and administrative centre, could benefit from increased investment in filmmaking, particularly if the necessary support systems are strengthened.
Okere therefore encouraged relevant stakeholders to pool their expertise and resources to develop Abuja into a competitive destination for film production.
Her appeal reinforces the wider conversation around strengthening Nigeria’s creative economy through improved collaboration, infrastructure, investment and professional opportunities for practitioners.
