Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), has called for continued investment in film infrastructure and sustainable partnerships to drive the growth of Nigeria’s film industry.
This is contained in a statement by the NFC’s public relations officer, Mr Brian Etuk, on Friday in Abuja.
Nuhu reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s film industry, outlining plans to achieve this through strategic infrastructure upgrades and policy innovation.
He also emphasised the importance of global collaboration, aimed not only at growing Nigeria’s film sector but also contributing to Africa’s broader cinematic presence.
During the ‘Reel Balancing Act: policymakers, filmmakers and the Future of Cinema’ session at the Afro-Berlin session of the Berlinale Film Festival in Germany, Nuhu highlighted Nigeria’s progress under the federal government’s roadmap for the creative sector.
He emphasised the need for sustainable partnerships to position Africa’s cinema as a global force.
He pointed to significant interventions by President Bola Tinubu’s administration as indicators of Nigeria’s commitment to film industry development, which include investments in infrastructure and a favourable investment policy.
“Revitalising legacy infrastructure at the NFC, as well as prioritising new initiatives to elevate Nigeria’s film ecosystem are being aggressively pursued.
“When I assumed office, my vision was clear: to build a world-class film industry for our country supported by enabling policies and sustainable partnerships.
“Today, we are witnessing the fruits of our determination and commitment,” Nuhu said.
Nuhu also spoke about the recently introduced ‘Tax Reform Bill’ before the national assembly.
He highlighted that, when passed into law, the bill would provide incentives for both local and international investors in Nigeria’s film sector.
“The bill particularly offers rebates for film productions that utilise local talent, facilities and locations, as well as tax holidays for studios and equipment manufacturers.
“This reform is a game-changer, reducing barriers to investments and empowering filmmakers to dream bigger,” Nuhu noted.
He lauded the government’s dedication to integrating the creative sector into the national economic planning, ensuring that film and culture were now central to Nigeria’s growth agenda.
Nuhu also highlighted the modernisation and transformation of the National Film Institute (NFI), with upgraded facilities, faculty, and curricula to equip emerging filmmakers with skills in digital production, animation and AI-driven storytelling.
He urged African filmmakers and policymakers to unite in addressing challenges such as piracy, funding gaps and distribution barriers.
“Our success lies in collaboration across borders, sectors and generations. With improved infrastructure, progressive policies and global solidarity, African cinema will not only thrive but dominate,” he said.