By Milcah Tanimu

Nollywood actors took part in the Youth Educational Film Festival (YEFF) in Abuja, where they trained young talents on using films to promote nation-building and deter vices. The festival, organized by Abuja Film Village (AFV) in partnership with the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and the NGO “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative (IFON),” aimed to provide a platform for youngsters to showcase their talents and encourage creativity.

Seasoned actors such as Charles Inojie, Segun Arinze, Victor Osuagwu, Charles Awurum, Chinedu Ikedieze, Dauda Kinsley, and Ayo Emmamuel conducted masterclasses and shared their experiences with participants from both tertiary and secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory.

Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), explained that the festival’s purpose was to promote education and learning outside traditional classroom settings. He emphasized the importance of using films to address educational themes, social issues, vices, and current events while encouraging creativity and self-expression among the youth.

Dr. Francisca Ibezim, Managing Director of Abuja Film Village (AFV), stated that the festival was part of their efforts to drive films through education campaigns and provide a platform for young filmmakers and passionate Nigerian youths to showcase their talents.

Mrs. Noni Okocha, CEO of IFON, described the festival as a springboard for government efforts to achieve educational objectives and improve literacy nationwide. Participants praised the program as a valuable opportunity to learn and pursue careers in the film industry.

The festival aimed to use films as a medium to create awareness and educate the nation, contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development and boosting tourism in the Federal Capital Territory. Organizers called for government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to support and make the festival an annual event to inspire children toward nation-building.