Plateau govt. urged to participate in film production

The film industry is receiving high acclaim and reaping high rewards. Film producers in Jos urged the Plateau Government to participate in film production and use films to promote peace and reconciliation in the state.

Mr Edward Fom, who made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said ``there is no movie making firm or individuals in the industry that does not have a base from Jos.’’

Fom, who spoke on behalf of other producers, described film as one of the major tools that could be used to promote peace and reconciliation among people.

“Film started in Nigeria in the early 50s, but it was in the 60s that it was taped. Plateau was one of the early terrains where the film acting started in the country.

“This is why we are calling on the state government to encourage the production of film in the state.

“Government can assist by providing incentives and other needed facilities that will make the industry grow in the state.

“We believe aside the entertaining aspect of movies, the industry, if well supported by government, will create jobs for the teeming youths.

“It is only film that can send down the message of total peace and reconciliation, telling the wider world that Plateau is not a war zone as it is being pictured by many,’’ he said.

The film maker commended the effort of the National film and Video Censors Board in its bids to prevent the production and distribution of immoral films from the industry.

He however lamented low participation of foreign film actors and producers in shooting films in the country, attributing it to lack of government support to the industry.

NAN recalls that during a one-day Consumer’s Forum organised by the National Film and Video Censors' Board in Jos, Gov. Jonah Jang of Plateau had called on film producers to promote the good image of the state.