The government of Rivers State is encouraging the local filmmaking community—including producers, directors, and writers—to leverage their creative influence to highlight the region’s abundant cultural assets.
This appeal was issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabraba, during a meeting on Monday with a group representing the Rivers International Film Festival in Port Harcourt.
Dr. Anabraba explained that Governor Siminalayi Fubara recognizes the significant social, cultural, and economic benefits of the tourism sector. This understanding has prompted the current administration to pursue a collaborative initiative with private entities to restore, upgrade, and reposition the image of the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach in Borokiri.
“Be assured that we will work with you to preserve our history and culture,” Anabraba stated.
He continued, “On behalf of His Excellency, I thank you for creating a platform that enables collaboration and promotes cross-fertilisation of culture across the African continent, with the ability to change the narrative on its people before the world.
“The Rivers State Government is proud and appreciates all that you have done in putting Rivers State on the map in film making and the arts,” he said.
The SSG further elaborated on the wide-reaching effects of tourism, noting its capacity to stimulate economic growth, enrich social and cultural experiences, and generate job opportunities for young people.
He also referenced the Governor’s recent tour of the Ngo–Atlantic–Oyorokoto Road corridor, a large coastal zone where the government is installing essential infrastructure to establish a center for investment aimed at unlocking the vast potential of the blue economy.
“If you check online, you will see that people have posted videos of elephants and other exotic animals around that area. We’re also planning conservation parks in these pristine environments for the protection of nature and entertainment,” Anabraba added.
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He pointed out the importance of scenery in filmmaking, suggesting that the Oyorokoto area provides stunning visual backdrops ideal for cinematic production and invited the filmmakers to help showcase its beauty.
The state’s administration urges creators to utilize their movies to depict the traditions and way of life of the local population, emphasizing that such works will act as important historical records for posterity.
Dr. Anabraba also gave special recognition to the international delegates from Zimbabwe and Ghana, expressing gratitude for their positive remarks regarding the security and welcoming atmosphere they enjoyed while visiting.
In her remarks, the Team Lead for the Rivers International Film Festival, Kate Ezeigbo, extended her gratitude to Governor Fubara for his backing. She highlighted that the upcoming 2025 festival, scheduled from October 30 to November 2, will showcase 272 films from across the globe.
She said, “Since inception, the Rivers International Film Festival has created a platform for producers, actors, directors, students, and industry professionals to connect, learn, and celebrate artistry.”
