Why Nigeria’s economy will boom if government takes Nollywood seriously – Ini Edo

• Ini Edo said this during an interview with the Punch when asked to expatiate on her comment that the film industry is a doorway to Nigeria’s developmental problem

Nigerian actress, Ini Edo has given reasons why if the federal government gives the entertainment industry the necessary attention and support to thrive, it will impact massively on the economy.

She said that despite it being the highest revenue generating industry in the country, some of the major challenges included inadequate public funding and lack of the right structures.

The seasoned actress said this during an interview with the Punch when asked to expatiate on her comment that the film industry is a doorway to Nigeria’s developmental problem. Ini Edo said:

“It is one of the highest revenue generating industries in the country. It provides employment for millions of youths, not to mention the number of people taken off the street, and the huge investments. If only the people (in leadership positions) understand what the movie industry can be to Nigeria’s economy, I think the government will see to it that the right structures are put in place, so that the sector can thrive.

It is one thing to see (potential); it is a different ball game to do something about it. Imagine me having a production like Shanty Town, and I had to fund it myself. There was no support from anyone. The poor electricity supply is a problem, and the cost of production is very high. There is no way that it favours one.”

Ini Edo added:

“I mentioned the government part of it. Another aspect is funding. Funding seems to be a big challenge in the industry but I think things are changing because people can actually walk up to one and say they want to invest (in the industry).

A couple of people have said that to me in recent times since Shanty Town was released. What that means is that if we keep improving and growing as an industry, funding would become less of a challenge.”