Desmond Utomwen Abuja Nollywood vision focuses on partnerships, innovation and transforming the FCT into a major film hub

Chairman of the Association of Movie Producers, FCT Chapter, Desmond Utomwen has unveiled an ambitious plan to reposition Abuja as a leading centre for Nollywood production through collaboration, innovation and strategic partnerships.

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Speaking during an interview in Abuja, Desmond Utomwen said his administration is focused on strengthening the role of producers while creating a sustainable ecosystem that supports filmmakers, actors and investors across the Federal Capital Territory.

AMP chairman explained that his emergence as leader of the FCT chapter followed years of active involvement in the guild, including serving as Publicity Secretary for six years.

According to him, colleagues encouraged him to contest for the position despite his initial reluctance due to existing commitments.

“Out of my passion for the guild, Nollywood and the FCT, I decided to step forward,” Desmond Utomwen said. “Now, the responsibility is on me to deliver and justify the confidence reposed in me.”

Highlighting his priorities, the AMP chairman described producers as the backbone of the film industry, stressing that Nollywood cannot survive without financially stable producers.

“Producers conceptualise projects, secure funding and employ every other practitioner,” he said. “If producers are not financially sustainable, the entire industry suffers.”

Desmond Utomwen said one of his major goals is to change perceptions of Abuja as a “sleepy town” for filmmaking and transform it into a vibrant production hub capable of rivaling other centres in the country.

While acknowledging Lagos as the dominant force in Nollywood, he insisted Abuja possesses unique advantages that can attract filmmakers and investors.

AMP chairman pointed to Abuja’s serene environment, modern infrastructure and diverse filming locations as critical assets capable of supporting both urban and epic film productions.

“Abuja offers diverse filming locations, better infrastructure and less noise disruption during shoots,” he said.

“Our task is to harness these advantages and create an enabling environment where investors and filmmakers see Abuja as a viable alternative.”

Desmond Utomwen also addressed concerns surrounding filmmakers who enter Abuja for productions without engaging local guilds and stakeholders.

Rather than adopting a confrontational approach, he said the association intends to build stronger partnerships that encourage collaboration between visiting filmmakers and local practitioners.

“We want to build a system where visiting filmmakers can benefit from local support structures while also contributing to the growth of the Abuja film ecosystem,” he stated.

The chairman revealed that his administration has already begun discussions with key institutions, including the Nigerian Film Corporation, the Nigerian Television Authority and the National Orientation Agency.

According to him, these partnerships are essential because film remains a powerful tool for education, communication and cultural influence.

Desmond Utomwen added that the association’s immediate plans include rebranding the guild, improving visibility within the FCT and establishing structures that support sustainable film production.

He expressed confidence that the initiatives would soon begin yielding visible results across the Abuja film industry.

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“Our ultimate goal is to make the FCT a thriving hub where creativity flourishes and quality productions are consistently delivered,” he said.