Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming Aba into a leading destination for film production, entertainment, and tourism in Nigeria.
The Governor made the pledge on Monday while receiving a delegation of Nollywood practitioners led by film producer Francis Ifeakandu, who is currently spearheading a major film project titled The Chronicles of Enyimba City.
Government Backs Creative Industry Growth
Governor Otti said his administration recognizes the enormous economic potential of the creative industry and remains committed to supporting initiatives that showcase Abia’s culture, history, and tourism assets.
According to him, government support will continue to be available for projects capable of creating jobs, attracting investment, and promoting the state’s image locally and internationally.
He assured the visiting filmmakers that the state government would continue to provide an enabling environment for the growth of the entertainment sector.
Entertainment City Planned for Aba
One of the major highlights of the Governor’s remarks was the revelation that plans are underway to establish an Entertainment City in Aba.
According to Otti, the proposed facility will provide modern infrastructure and world-class support systems for filmmakers, actors, creative professionals, and investors.
He disclosed that preliminary processes, including land acquisition and compensation arrangements, have already commenced as part of efforts to bring the project to reality.
The Governor noted that the initiative aligns with his broader vision of diversifying the state’s economy through investment in non-oil sectors.
Otti Reflects on Film Industry Experience
Governor Otti also spoke about his personal connection to the entertainment industry, recalling his involvement in film production during the 1990s.
He explained that this experience has given him a deeper appreciation of both the opportunities and challenges within Nigeria’s film sector.
According to him, the creative industry remains one of the country’s most promising sectors for youth empowerment and economic growth.
Film Project to Showcase Aba’s Heritage
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Francis Ifeakandu described The Chronicles of Enyimba City as one of the most ambitious film productions currently being developed in Africa.
He explained that the project aims to tell the story of Aba while promoting the culture, history, and tourism potential of Abia State to a global audience.
According to him, auditions have already been conducted across all 17 local government areas of Abia State, as well as in neighbouring states.
The production is expected to feature more than 2,000 cast members and will be structured into six seasons, with five episodes in each season.
Nollywood Stars Applaud Aba’s Transformation
Members of the delegation commended the ongoing infrastructural development taking place across Aba under the current administration.
Veteran Nollywood actor Obi Okoli, who spent part of his early life in Aba, described the transformation of the city as remarkable.
Similarly, actress Sharon Ifedi expressed admiration for the visible improvements in infrastructure, noting that the city had changed significantly from her previous experiences.
The visitors praised the administration’s efforts in improving roads, public facilities, and the overall business environment.
Reviving Aba’s Historical Role in Nollywood
A member of the production team, Uwaoma Uche of Gregory University, described the project as a panoramic storytelling initiative focused on Aba’s origins and cultural significance.
He noted that Aba played an important role in the early development of Nigeria’s film industry and deserves recognition for its contributions to Nollywood’s growth.
According to the team, the project is expected to revive Aba’s historical relevance in filmmaking while creating employment opportunities and attracting tourism and private investment.
Creative Economy as a Development Tool
The visit highlights the growing importance of the creative economy as a driver of development and economic diversification.
With plans for an Entertainment City and large-scale film productions already in motion, stakeholders believe Aba could emerge as one of Nigeria’s leading centres for filmmaking, entertainment, and cultural tourism.
The initiative is also expected to provide new opportunities for young creatives, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking to tap into the rapidly expanding entertainment industry.