L-R: Nollywood Thespian,Paul Apel Papel, Execute Director, National Film and Video Censors Board, Dr. Shaibu Husseini and Ambassador David Fiase, Consultant, to the Benue State Government on Film Matters during their courtesy visit to the Board.
The Benue State Government has got assurance from the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) that it will fully support its efforts to develop a comprehensive film policy and strengthen the State’s creative ecosystem.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, the Executive Director of NFVCB, gave this commitment during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Benue State, led by Ambassador David Allgreen Eiase, Consultant on Film Development, to the NFVCB headquarters in Abuja.
Receiving the delegation, Dr. Shaibu, commended Benue State for its intentional shift toward film development, especially with the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Creativity. He described the move as a forward-thinking step in recognising the value of the creative economy, particularly for youth engagement and empowerment.
He emphasised the importance of building a clear, functional film policy that would serve as a roadmap for the growth of the industry in Benue State, just as he assured the delegation of the Board’s readiness to provide technical support and guidance in policy formulation, regulatory framework, and institutional strengthening.
As part of the broader collaboration, Dr. Husseini proposed the establishment of a Benue State Film Office—a strategic hub that would facilitate production support, access to grants, local talent sourcing, and regulatory services. He noted that such offices had proved successful in other States by attracting investments, reducing production costs, and fostering a thriving film environment.
He further expressed the Board’s commitment to capacity building, particularly for emerging producers and distributors. The NFVCB boss said training programmes tailored to distribution and classification standards would not only improve the quality of content but also streamline the classification of films and video works.
On his part, Ambassador Eiase conveyed the appreciation of the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hycent Alia, highlighting the administration’s resolve to create an enabling environment for filmmakers. He revealed that, for the first time, the State government was initiating a revolving fund for filmmakers through the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC). This fund is aimed at providing accessible financing for film projects, boosting production, and incentivising investment in the local creative industry.
Ambassador Eiase also underscored the State’s goal of positioning itself as a cultural powerhouse, where authentic stories rooted in its people’s heritage could be told with professionalism and pride.
In closing, Dr. Husseini reiterated the NFVCB’s commitment to partnering with Benue State in building a structured, inclusive, and sustainable film industry—one that contributes meaningfully to national development, cultural preservation, and youth employment.
