Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Nurudeen Alimi
Published on 2024-04-02 11:18:15
In a move to support the entertainment industry and boost the economy of Ondo State, a lawmaker representing Ondo East/West federal constituency, Mr Abiola Makinde, has initiated the establishment of Ekiwood Movie Village in Ondo. The groundbreaking ceremony was marked by Makinde’s vision to provide a platform for hundreds of youths in Ondo Kingdom to excel in filmmaking, production, and empowerment within a well-developed and concentrated environment.
Makinde, who spearheaded the Ekiwood Movie Village project, emphasized that entertainment is now part of his WEALTH (Water, Education, Agriculture, Light, Training, and Health) agenda mantra. This addition aims to drive accelerated development, employment, and commerce in Ondo Kingdom for his second term in office. The lawmaker expressed his determination to transform Ekiwood into an internationally recognized hub in the film-making industry, unleashing talents and addressing youth unemployment in Ondo Kingdom.
During the ceremony, representatives of the Ekiwood Board of Trustees, Idris Mamukuyomi and Enirekan Adewole, commended Hon. Makinde for appointing them as board members and for his dedication in turning the Ekiwood vision into reality. They highlighted the project’s benefits for Ondo communities, not limited to producing blockbuster films but also incorporating the Ekiwood Cooperative Multipurpose to offer soft loans to entertainers. The board members emphasized the potential of the hub to generate employment opportunities for hundreds of youths in the entertainment industry.
Renowned movie producers and directors in Nollywood, Mr Adebayo Tijani and Allwell Ademola, lauded the initiative for establishing and formalizing the entertainment industry in Ondo Kingdom and the entire state. They recognized the significant impact Ekiwood Movie Village would have on the cultural landscape and economic development of Ondo State.
The Ekiwood Movie Village project is poised to revolutionize the entertainment sector in Ondo State, providing a conducive environment for aspiring filmmakers and creatives to hone their skills, collaborate, and showcase their talents on an international platform. The initiative represents a strategic step towards fostering growth, innovation, and prosperity within the local entertainment ecosystem.
As the construction of Ekiwood Movie Village progresses, stakeholders anticipate a positive transformation in the entertainment landscape of Ondo State, attracting investments, creating job opportunities, and positioning the region as a key player in the Nigerian film industry. The implementation of the project underscores the commitment of Hon. Abiola Makinde to drive sustainable development and empower the youth through the promotion of arts and culture in Ondo Kingdom.
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