By Adewunmi Oluwaseun
Senator Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta North), has pledged ₦200 million to support a new talent hunt initiative aimed at discovering and nurturing young creatives in Nigeria’s booming Nollywood industry.
The lawmaker, who made the announcement at the opening of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), office in Abuja and the launch of its multi-purpose Super App, said the initiative would help elevate Nollywood’s standards by enabling the production of quality television series.
“A well-produced series can serve generations,” said Nwoko, who is the Chairman of the AGN Board of Patrons. “To kick-start the process and support talent discovery, I am committing ₦200 million.”
He emphasized the global recognition of Nollywood and the need for more institutional and individual support to improve the quality of local productions to match international standards.
Nwoko also revealed that he is sponsoring a bill to establish the AGN as a statutory professional body, placing it on par with associations like the NBA and NMA.
Highlighting Delta’s creative contributions, he noted: “Asaba is the home of Nollywood. The region’s oil and gas wealth and cultural influence deserve a new state; Anioma State.”
The senator’s gesture is seen as a strategic boost for Nigeria’s creative economy and a personal commitment to strengthening the future of African storytelling through film and television.
