NFVCB’s Digital Content Conference: Mo’Abudu, Funke Akindele, Others Honoured
NFVCB’s Digital Content Conference: Mo’Abudu, Funke Akindele, Others Honoured
Industry leaders, creative minds, and stakeholders from across Nigeria gathered in Lagos for the fourth edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Digital Content Regulation Conference, a landmark event designed to shape the future of the country’s creative industry.
The two-day conference, which commenced on Thursday, November 14, and concluded on Friday, November 15, was hosted by the National Film and Video Censors Board under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Husseini Shuaibu.
Featuring 12 panel discussions and over 36 industry experts, the conference attracted heavyweights such as Mildred Okwo, Kene Okwuosa, Francis Onwuchie, Mary Njoku, Patrick Lee, Fidelis Duker, Ruth Kadiri, Emeka Mba, and Mo Abudu, who delivered the keynote address.
Abudu, founder of EbonyLife Media, paid tribute to Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, the late founder of the African Movie Academy Awards.
In her keynote address, titled “From Local to Global: Developing Narratives and Content for Worldwide Appeal,” she emphasised the importance of authenticity and collaboration in telling African stories to global audiences.
“We are in an era where monetization is key.
“If we remain in the bubble of local storytelling, we risk staying stagnant.
“To break into the global space, we must adhere to principles like authenticity, universal themes such as resilience and justice, and investing in high-quality productions,” she said.
She further stressed the need for collaboration, saying, “Nobody can do it alone. Partnerships are critical to achieving global success.”
In his opening address, Shuaibu urged filmmakers to balance creativity with responsibility.
“Our work shapes minds and influences culture.
“It’s essential to uphold artistic integrity while being sensitive and respectful to our audience,” he said.
Shuaibu credited his predecessor, Adedayo Thomas, for conceptualising the conference, named in honour of Peace Anyiam-Osigwe.
He noted that the forum serves as a platform for knowledge exchange and networking, particularly in light of the ongoing shift from traditional to digital content consumption.
Themed “Film and Video Regulation in the Digital Age: Balancing Creativity and Responsibility,” the conference explored topics such as global distribution, studio and independent film financing, artificial intelligence in content production, and preserving cultural heritage through storytelling.
Distinguished personalities in attendance included Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, Barrister Hannatu Musawa (represented by Tola Akerele), Joke Silva, Charles Novia, Segun Arinze, and Fidelis Duker. Heads of parastatals and other notable figures also graced the event.
The highlight of the conference was the Box Office Champion Awards, recognising achievements in the past decade.
Honourees included Mo Abudu, Wumi Tortola, Funke Akindele, and Ben Murray-Bruce, alongside other celebrated contributors to the industry.
