RismadarVoice Reporters, June 14, 2026
Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the growth of the entertainment and creative industry, describing the sector as a critical driver of tourism, investment, and economic development.
The governor gave the assurance while receiving a delegation of Nollywood practitioners led by filmmaker Mr Francis Ifeakandu, who is currently producing a movie project titled “The Chronicles of Enyimba.”
Otti commended the team for undertaking a film project aimed at showcasing the cultural heritage, history, and developmental strides of Abia State, particularly Aba, popularly known as the Enyimba City.
According to the governor, the initiative aligns with the state’s vision of leveraging the creative industry to promote investment opportunities, tourism, and economic growth.
While noting that the government may not directly finance private film productions, Otti said his administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment that will allow filmmakers and other creative professionals to thrive.
He assured the delegation of the state’s support for initiatives capable of projecting a positive image of Abia and creating opportunities for residents.
Drawing from his experience as a movie producer in the 1990s, the governor said he understands the challenges facing practitioners in the Nigerian film industry and the need for deliberate policies to support the sector.
Otti disclosed that the state government is pursuing plans to establish an Entertainment City in Abia as part of efforts to position the state as a major hub for filmmaking and other creative enterprises.
He revealed that processes for land acquisition and compensation have already commenced, expressing confidence that the project would attract investors and create employment opportunities for youths.
The governor also praised Ifeakandu and other Nollywood stars involved in The Chronicles of Enyimba project, noting that the production would help tell Abia’s story to a global audience.
According to him, the film, which is expected to feature more than 2,000 cast members and run across six seasons, has the potential to restore Abia’s prominence in Nigeria’s movie industry while contributing to job creation and economic development.
