The Nollywood Mandate (TNM), in collaboration with key industry Guilds and Associations in Nigeria’s creative industry, has announced that the breakout Nollywood Economic Outlook (NEO), Mini Marathon and Exhibition will take place from February 22nd to 24th, 2024, at the prestigious Ojez Lounge, National Stadium, Surulere Lagos.
The three-day event is designed to bring together top thought leaders, experts, professionals, innovators, content creators, private organisations, and government agencies to critically review and analyze the state of the creative industry and chart a course for a prosperous future under the theme: “Reshaping the Future of the Creative Economy.”
Speaking to newsmen in Lagos weekend, Don Pedro Aganbi, Convener, Nollywood Economic Outlook Mandate and Mini Marathon noted that “Nollywood, the Nigerian Film Industry, has firmly established itself as a global powerhouse, contributing significantly to the country’s entertainment sector and GDP. With over 100 movies produced per week, Nollywood continues to captivate audiences both locally and internationally, leveraging digital distribution and the internet to expand its global footprint.”
He explained that the industry faces evolving challenges and opportunities amidst these successes. The Nollywood Economic Outlook and Mini Marathon aim to address these dynamics by exploring the rising economic potential of Nollywood, improving Nigeria’s GDP, enhancing the country’s brand value, attracting investments, and addressing critical health issues within the creative industry.
According to Aganbi, “The event aims to raise awareness about various health challenges faced by the creative community, engage the creative economy in open dialogue on sensitive health-related topics, promote partnerships with sustainable solutions providers from the healthcare, fitness, insurance, and technology sectors, and support the government’s vision of forging a vibrant, diversified economy through the creative industry.”
The event will feature an array of activities across its three-day duration: Day one will feature the opening ceremony, conference session, panel discussions, and exhibitions. Day 2 will be health screening sessions for all participants. Scheduled for Day Three, Saturday is the Nollywood Mini Marathon featuring health walk, meet & greet sessions, music, comedy, and more.
Distinguished speakers slated to grace the event include: Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Lagos state; Dr. Victor Okhai, President, Directors Guild of Nigeria; Ejezie Emeka Rollas, MON, President, Actors Guild of Nigeria; and Amb. Dr Queen Blessing Ebigieson, President, Association of Movie Producers.
Others include, Fidelix Duker, Chairman, FAD Media Group; Victor Mark – Onyegbu, Head of Grant, Africa No Filter, Jide Awe, CEO, Jidaw.com and Legendary Actor, Gloria Young among others.
The Nollywood Mandate, comprised of patriotic Nigerians dedicated to the growth of the economy and the rapid development of the creative industry, is spearheading this initiative. Through collaboration and cooperation with like-minded associations, organisations, and agencies, The Nollywood Mandate aims to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s growth and development.
Don Pedro Aganbi called on corporate bodies to join with TNM as it embarks on this transformative journey to reshape the future of the creative economy and propel Nollywood to even greater heights.
