Nigeria’s film industry, valued at $6.4 billion, is poised for growth, as evidenced by its debut at the Cannes Film Festival with ‘My Father’s Shadow’. This Nollywood film, set during the tumultuous 1993 Nigerian general election, is celebrated for its cultural authenticity and global appeal. Executive Producer Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù highlights the potential of Nigerian cinema on the world stage.
Directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and co-written with his brother Wale, the film draws on their personal experiences, capturing the essence of Lagos through the lens of working-class life. The project showcases collaboration between local and international talent.
At Cannes, Nigeria unveiled the Screen Nigeria Project, spearheaded by Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, aiming to boost the film sector’s contribution to the economy by $100 billion by 2030. The initiative supports creatives through funding and infrastructure development while addressing piracy issues.
Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President on Creativity, emphasizes the importance of showcasing Nigeria’s diverse film landscape and encourages global engagement with Nigerian stories. He highlights the potential of Nigerian film to achieve global recognition, paralleling the success of the country’s music industry.
