Gbenga Daniel, a former governor of Ogun State, has requested that the Federal Government assume control of and provide adequate funding for the film village in Ososa, Odogbolu Local Government Area of the state, which was established by the late Chief Hubert Ogunde, the dean of Nigerian theater.
Daniel, the senatorial candidate for Ogun East for the All Progressives Congress, stated before the National Assembly that one of his goals is to get the federal government to show interest in and promote the growth of the Ososa film town.
He made this statement on Friday at an empowerment session that was a part of his ward-by-ward tour of the state’s Odogbolu Local Government Area.
According to the former governor, it’s critical that the government realign the nation’s film and entertainment sectors to maximize profits and income collection.
Daniel recounted how the late Ogunde, who was born in Ososa in the Odogbolu Local Government Area, revolutionized theater arts practice in Nigeria and played a pivotal pioneering role. He further added that his legendary exploits could be linked to the creation of Nollywood.
He claims that if the federal government provides adequate assistance, the film and entertainment industries will contribute to the creation of more jobs, which will further the nation’s economic development.
He said that the state was still the biggest exporter of performers from Nigeria and that it was still the center of the world’s entertainment industry.
He stated, “Ogun State continues to be the hub of global entertainment. We are the source of the new sound from the other side that is being embraced globally. These abilities are ours, even though we are glad to share them with the rest of the world. It’s from here that people discuss topics like Olamide, D’banj, Kizz Daniel, Laycon, Fireboy DML, Asa, Wande Coal, and Reminisce, among others.
“We are leading the new era just as we led the 1970s, 80s, and 90s with people like Ebenezer Obey, Fela, Haruna Ishola, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, Sir Shina Peters, Adewale Ayuba, Salawa Abeni, Batile Alake, and Tope Alabi.” But not only in music; many from this state, such Tunde Kelani and Yemi Shodimu, support Nollywood today.
Thus, Ogun State ought to receive particular attention in the growth of the entertainment sector. In order to secure adequate funding, the National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC) ought to take control of the Ososa film village.
In order to help the entertainment industry reach its full potential, the senate candidate promised to support laws and policies that would increase its vibrancy and productivity.
