Joke Silva urges government to create financial provisions for Nollywood

Veteran Nollywood actress, Joke Silva, has urged the Federal Government to encourage filmmakers in the country to gain easy access to funds to produce films.

Silva made this call while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 in Lagos.

“Over the years, filmmakers have found it difficult to access funds to produce films, a development government needs to wade into to encourage filmmakers,” Joke said.

“Accessibility to fund to produce films should not be made too difficult for us, the hurdles are too cumbersome. Effective ways should also be created through which the funds can be returned; so that the source does not get exhausted.

“Government should also not always consider having a high interest rate, what should be the focus is that the money is returned. I advise filmmakers to also realise the need to return such funds so that others can access it. She added.

Meanwhile, the actress also touched on the need for grants in the industry:

“There should also be a place for grants for the creative industry that will give a soft landing to filmmakers, this is needed because it is important that businesses get expanded in the creative space.”

In the same vein, Silva admitted the need for the provision of facilities by the federal government to enhance distribution of theatrical exhibitions.

“There are various things that will help distribution of stage plays, to take cinemas round the country will warrant seamless road travels. Can the federal government assist with buses and security to take works round the country?

“Government should be able to help the creatives to produce and run their work for longer duration, because it is when works are run for long that the producer generates much revenue,” Joke added.

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