It was an excellent event yesterday at Surulere, Lagos State, the hub of Filmmaking in Nigeria, when the apex guild for all Television and Film Directors in Nigeria commissioned their first ever National Secretariat
The President of the guild, Mr. Fred Amata while delivering his opening speech stated that the commissioning is an invitation to the boundless opportunities before the guild and the industry at large. He went further to say that, although its United States of America counterpart, Directors Guild of America has Cinema Theatre to Screen films amongst other facilities, he believes that with time and with government support and encouragement, the guild and indeed, the industry at large will build structures that will help practitioners to grow.
He concluded by appreciating Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila for agreeing to come for the epoch making event, the first of its kind in the history of Directors Guild of Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila the majority leader of National House of Representatives while addressing the industry delegates and government officials present, noted that he is always ready to work with industry leaders to ensuring that what is generally right for the industry is done. He said that he also noted with concern some of the challenges facing the industry and will be willing to help the industry through legislation if the industry can present a united view on paper.
Some other persons present is Mr. Uche Agbo the National Secretary of Directors Guild of Nigeria, Mr. Tony Akposhiri, the Finance Director of the guild, Mr. Perekeme Odum, the National PRO, as well as Mr. Osita Okoli, the National Provost. The founding President of DGN who also doubled as the Master of Ceremony Mr. Matthias Obahiagbon was also present. The Vice Chairman of Surulere Local Government also witnessed the event, amongst many celebrities and veterans in the industry.
While thanking Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila for coming, member representing Surulere Constituency in Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Desmond Elliott informed him that the industry needs legislation now more than ever to mitigate against piracy. Mr. Elliott also asked that he should also help the industry put forward bills that can help industry players in accessing international co-productions.
