Stakeholders in the Plateau State film industry have identified security, collaboration, and training as the three critical pillars required to rebuild the sector and restore its position as a major hub for filmmaking in Nigeria.
The declaration was made during a high-profile visit by the National President of the Association of Movie Producers of Nigeria (AMP), Amb. Dr. Queen Blessing Ebigieson, to filmmakers in Jos, the state capital.
Speaking at a special ceremony held at Afik Motel, Ebigieson emphasized that without deliberate investment in training, filmmakers risk being left behind as the industry undergoes rapid technological transformation.
“The world is changing, and filmmaking is changing with it. If our members are not trained and exposed to new tools like artificial intelligence, they will be pushed out of relevance,” she told a gathering of producers, directors, and actors.
Ebigieson revealed that her physical engagement with Plateau filmmakers uncovered deeper challenges often missed during virtual meetings, including poor access to distribution platforms and the absence of structured institutional support.
To address these gaps, she announced that AMP is rolling out capacity-building initiatives in partnership with international bodies, with a focus on equipping local filmmakers with modern skills to compete nationally and globally.
On collaboration, the AMP president urged producers to abandon isolated operations and instead pool resources, share risks, and jointly promote their content as a strategy for survival and growth in a competitive industry.
Sir Edward Fom Pam, Chairman of the AMP Plateau State chapter, welcomed the national president by commending the state government for recent security interventions, which he said have made the region safer for film production.
“Thanks to the tireless efforts of His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the security situation has improved significantly. We now have safer roads and growing confidence that Plateau is ready to host filmmakers again,” Pam stated.
He, however, stressed that security alone is insufficient, calling on the government to provide financial support and grants to help local producers overcome funding obstacles and bring their stories to the screen.
Vice Chairman Mr. Loony John Lognan echoed these sentiments, noting that Plateau is home to 56 tribes with countless untold stories. “With proper support, we can change the narrative, showcase our culture, and promote tourism through film,” he said.
In a goodwill message, Hon. Chief Seigha Ebide, Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Plateau State, expressed joy at seeing movie stakeholders from different fields come together to celebrate art. He commended the National President of the AMP for engaging members directly and said such gatherings provide opportunities for growth, collaboration, and talent development.
Mrs. Augusta Isaac, Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in Plateau, called for stronger synergy among all players in the creative sector, stating that unity and teamwork are essential for building a sustainable film industry.
Ebigieson expressed optimism that with improved security, strategic government investment, and a commitment to collaboration and training, Plateau State can reclaim its place as a vibrant film hub and a source of jobs for young creatives.
