The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has organised a two-day media literacy and capacity-building programme for youths, aimed at bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in filmmaking and media.
Held at the University of Lagos on Tuesday, the two-day event brought together students from UNILAG, YABATECH, LASU, Trinity University, and LASUTECH.
Hosted by the minister of arts, culture, tourism, and creative economy, Hannatu Musawa, and NFVCB executive director Shaibu Husseini, the programme featured several notable guests, including actor Keppy Ekpenyong, TAMPAN President Bolaji Amusan (popularly known as Mr. Latin), and public affairs officer of the US Consulate, Julie McKay.
In his opening remarks, Husseini explained the importance of taking the programme to universities, emphasing the need to equip students with practical skills.
“This programme has been on for a while, but I thought we should move it from the usual audience to universities,” he said.
“There’s so much theory with no practice. We need to train you in different areas of filmmaking and expose you to the dynamics of media. We need people like this that we can build on.”
Husseini also highlighted the collaboration with Lagos-based institutions, appreciating the turnout from both private and public universities.
Julie McKay of the US Consulate delivered a keynote address, commending Nigerians for their creativity and energy.
“Nigerians are creative entrepreneurial, they have energy. We see collaborations between the United States and Nigeria in film and music.
“You meet a Nigerian at everywhere you go. And you’re doing so many amazing things. And so I think that energy is something that we want to support.
“Nigerians are doing amazing things globally, and we’re committed to supporting your stories on the global stage.”
While delivering her keynote address, McKay emphasized that ‘media literacy’ is the foundation of any informed society.
‘Media literacy teaches us to ask questions—the most fundamental skill for critical thinking and discernment in today’s information age.
“By asking questions, we are empowered to navigate the complex media landscape, separate fact from fiction, and make informed decisions,’ she said.
Mr. Latin emphasised the value of formal education in the creative industry.
Sharing his personal journey, he said, “I went back to school to study cinematography and film studies at Princeton University.
“Presently, I’m in my fourth-grade level studying Peace and Conflict Resolution at the Nile University of Nigeria. A day will come when someone may want to help you, and they’ll ask, ‘Where is your certificate?’”
The event also included a lecture on media presentation by Dr. Theresa Amobi and practical sessions in filmmaking.
Students were divided into classes such as cinematography, led by John Aduloju; acting for screen, headed by Keppy Ekpenyong; and directing, facilitated by Lancelot Imasuen, among others.
The programme concluded with a question and answer session.
