Abia to become film, entertainment, tourism hub, says Otti
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Abia State Governor Alex Otti pledged to support the creative industry and transform the state into a hub for film, entertainment, and tourism.
- The governor announced plans to establish an Entertainment City in Aba, with land acquisition and compensation processes already underway.
- Nollywood practitioners praised Otti's administration for its commitment to promoting investment and economic growth through the creative sector.
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has declared his administration's dedication to fostering the creative industry and establishing the state as a premier destination for film production, entertainment, and tourism. Otti made this commitment during a meeting with Nollywood practitioners at his country home in Nvosi, Isialangwa South LGA.
He commended the filmmakers for their project, "The Chronicles of Enyimba City," which aims to highlight Abia's cultural heritage and development. Otti emphasized that while the government may not directly fund private film projects, it will provide essential support and create an enabling environment for the entertainment industry's growth. "Government will continue to provide an enabling environment and work with stakeholders to ensure that initiatives capable of promoting Abia and creating opportunities for our people succeed," he stated.
While my government may not directly sponsor private film projects, my administration remains committed to providing the necessary support and enabling environment required for the growth of the entertainment industry in the state.
The governor also revealed plans for an "Entertainment City" in Aba. This ambitious project is designed to offer world-class infrastructure and facilities for filmmakers, creative professionals, and investors. The government has already initiated processes such as land acquisition and compensation to bring this vision to fruition.
Mr. Francis Ifeakandu, the producer of "The Chronicles of Enyimba City," expressed gratitude for the governor's support. He noted that the film project, which involves over 2,000 cast members across six seasons, aims to showcase Abia's history, culture, tourism, and progress to a global audience. Ifeakandu appealed for continued government backing to ensure the project's successful completion.
I assured you of support, and that support remains available. Government will continue to provide an enabling environment and work with stakeholders to ensure that initiatives capable of promoting Abia and creating opportunities for our people succeed.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.