ABEOKUTA– The Federal Government of Nigeria has been urged to make grants available for the entertainment industry in order to increase the qualitative production capacity of the industry.
This forms part of the communique issued by a policy advocacy group, Think Tank On Nigeria (TTON) at end of discussions centred on the youth, adding that government should implement policies that favours the Industry.
The group, headed by Engr. Dideolu Falobi with over 250 membership across the globe, maintained that with the grants, solutions on how to change the narrative on the misconception about Nigeria, using controlled scripting or type of storytelling to attract producers.
“The Government needs to help implement policies that favour the entertainment industry personnels/ stakeholders for higher profitability e.g. film production, trademark and patent policy, label protection and so on”, the communique reads
The communique endorsed by 37 members noted that, the policy will aid proper regulation and monitor value standard, which include entertainment ratings, stressing that this would be based on consumers perception and critical analysis by the industry experts
“These policies will aid proper regulation and monitor value standard such as entertainment ratings. This would be based on consumers’ perception and critical analysis by industry experts. These experts will proffer solutions on how to change the narrative using controlled scripting or type of storytelling to attract producers e.g. giving support grants to initiators of a particular type of story or script”, it stated
The group pointed out that creativity thrives only in a conducive environment, hence government should shift focus to policies that provide environment for entertainment to thrive.
“The steady devaluation of Naira and bad economy frustrates the efforts of youths in this sector. Thus, the government should implement policies that will improve the economy of the country. People in entertainment should optimize best practices while guiding against lack of originality and poor content. If looking deeper into the African culture will inspire originality, then content should be sourced from our rich culture.
“The skill of digital marketing should be acquired and engaged, as it helps in the marketing of ideas and products as well as in the packaging and presentation of services. Effective systems, structures and processes will go a long way in elevating the sector.
“There is need for restructuring. The sector should look into centralization of production just like the developed countries where nearly every production is done in one place (America – Hollywood and Britain – Pinewood.)
“Thus, a brand should be created and projected to integrate the aspirations of the Individual, the corporation, and the community. The government should support the sector through funds, subsidies, grants and other direct incentives as exemplified by leading economies around the World”, the communique concludes
