To commence the conference, esteemed attendees paid a courtesy visit to Prof. A.O Georgewill, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt. The host institution, known for its academic prowess and commitment to excellence, provides an ideal environment for examining the thriving Nigerian film industry.

Distinguished guests and participants were then captivated by the opening keynote address delivered by Prof. Barclays Ayakoroma, the acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Africa, Bayelsa. Prof. Ayakoroma, a prominent figure in the academic and cultural realm, shed light on the essential relationship between movie stardom and national development. His thought-provoking speech set the stage for deeper discussions throughout the conference.

Among the lineup of notable speakers is Osezua Stephen-Imobhio, the founder of the African Indigenous Language Film Festival (Ailff) and an influential voice renowned for his expertise in film distribution and monetization within the digital ecosystem. Stephen-Imobhio’s presentation, titled “The Impact of Streaming Services on Film Distribution and Monetization in the Digital Ecosystem,” will explore the transformative influence of streaming platforms on the film industry and its implications for revenue generation.

Adding to the intellectual discourse will be Prof. Effiong Etim Johnson from the esteemed University of Uyo, who will present a paper entitled “Acting Principle: A Critic-Dialectical Thrust.” Prof. Johnson, recognized for his comprehensive understanding of acting techniques and their artistic relevance, will engage attendees in an analytical exploration of the role of acting in shaping the perception of Nigerian cinema.

The Nollywood Nation Annual Conference Series, which commenced today, is scheduled to run from October 25th to the 27th, 2023. With a diverse array of expert speakers and participants poised to contribute to meaningful discussions, the conference promises to shed new light on the Nigerian film industry’s role in nation building.

Prof. Femi Shaka, a prominent scholar and advocate for the growth and development of Nollywood, serves as the esteemed convener of the event. Prof. Shaka envisions the conference series as a platform where industry stakeholders, scholars, and enthusiasts can come together to exchange knowledge, foster collaborations, and explore innovative ideas for elevating Nollywood on the global stage. Prof. Innocent Uwa chairs the local organizing committee, with Prof. F. Nwafor leading as the Host for the Department of Film & Multimedia Studies.

As the inaugural Nollywood Nation Annual Conference Series gains momentum, it is expected that the event will leave a lasting impact on the Nigerian film industry, sparking new initiatives and inspiring future collaborations that will further contribute to the growth, development, and recognition of Nollywood as a powerful catalyst for nation building.