FG BEGINS CONSTRUCTION OF CINEMATOGRAPHY CENTRE IN ABIA

REPORTER: JOHN MADUAGWU

The Federal Government is set to build a cinematography centre in Asaga Ohafia, in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.

The edifice, when completed, would serve as an audiovisual resources development center, film entrepreneurial digital hub and a film village.

In a message at the foundation laying ceremony, the senator representing Abia North and Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, said the project was part of the Federal Government’s move aimed at developing the South East through several ongoing projects across the zone.

Senator Kalu, who was represented by a retired Permanent Secretary in Abia State Government, the Reverend Jemima Ola Kalu, enjoined the people of the state to continue supporting the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in its bid to fast tract development of the country.

For his part, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Dr. Chidia Maduekwe, said the decision to site the centre in the area was informed by the cultural capability of the place, its diversity and nearness to other parts of the country, including the South South geopolitical zone.

He explained that budgetary provisions had been made to cater for the construction while funding partners, including those from France and Germany, were eager to see the centre commence operations to help make Nigerian youths wealth creators.

The event featured a thanksgiving service conducted by the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Asaga Ohafia and conferment of a chieftaincy title of the Ishinka of Ohafia by the Chairman, Ohafia Council of Monarchs, Professor Emmanuel Imaga.

Many dignatories attended the event, including the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohamed represented by Mr. Godwin Ukah; and the Director General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Dr. Mansur Liman, represented by the General Manager, Radio Nigeria Pacesetter FM, Umuahia, Mr. Uche Ndukwe.