The Honourable Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality, and Culture, Barr. Jerry Egemba, convened the maiden edition of the “Imo Creative Industry Stakeholders Meeting” The historic gathering, held at the Imo State Council for Arts & Culture, brought together prominent entertainment figures, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Sir TUC Nwokonkwo, departmental heads, and the Director of the Arts Council, Eze-elect Eke Jude Chijioke.
In his opening remarks, Barr. Egemba underscored the meeting’s purpose: fostering dialogue among entertainment stakeholders to collectively shape the industry’s future. He stated, “This meeting is a platform for all players in the entertainment sector to engage, deliberate, and address key issues affecting the industry and the wellbeing of Ndi Imo, under the leadership of His Excellency, Dist. Sen. Dr. Hope Uzodimma, CON.”
The Commissioner reflected on his participation in major film festivals, including the Imo Film Festival, Eco Film Festival, and the Igbo Film Festival, reaffirming his commitment to sustaining robust engagements with the creative industry.
He emphasized the industry’s role in enhancing the joy and wellbeing of Imo citizens, which contributes to longevity. He also reiterated Governor Uzodimma’s declaration of 2025 as “Ndi Imo’s Year of Entertainment Braggadocio Extravaganza,” signaling the administration’s prioritization of the entertainment sector as a partner in state development.
Barr. Egemba urged stakeholders to unify and support the creation of “Imo Entertainment Day,” a platform to showcase talents while enabling government-backed growth initiatives. He also called on participants to act as positive ambassadors of Imo State and the present administration.
Bob Michael, Special Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment, echoed the government’s commitment to the sector’s development. He assured stakeholders of Governor Uzodimma’s responsiveness to their challenges and encouraged patience as plans to revitalize the industry unfold.
Lady Nzeogu Adaeze, Chairperson of the event planning committee and Director of Culture, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for his unwavering support. She lauded the participants for their involvement, emphasizing the significance of the event.
Dr. Francis Nwafor, Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Imo State Chapter, and Hon. Sonex Oguike, representing the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), highlighted industry challenges and commended the government for hosting the landmark event. Lady Steph Nora Okere, representing Nollywood stars, emphasized the meeting’s potential to yield transformative outcomes for stakeholders.
Mr. Victor Nwokocha, Coordinator of the South East Creative Economy Summit, announced that Owerri would host the summit in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting the Governor’s supportive stance on the creative sector. Themed “Intellectual Property, Entertainment Technology, and Wealth Creation: Imperatives for Enhancing the South East Creative Economy,” the summit aims to accelerate regional growth in the entertainment industry.
The inaugural Imo Creative Industry Stakeholders Meeting marked a pivotal step towards fostering a stronger partnership between the government and entertainment professionals in Imo State, with a collective vision to advance the creative sector and improve the lives of Ndi Imo.
