By Obianuju Umeh
The Anambra State Ministry of Culture, Entertainment and Tourism has endorsed the Anambra International Film Festival (ANIFF), describing it as a strategic initiative to promote the state’s rich cultural heritage, tourism potential and growing creative economy.
The endorsement came during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ministry and the organisers of ANIFF on August 4 in Awka, marking a significant step towards positioning Anambra as a leading destination for film, arts and cultural tourism.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Udoji Amedu, described ANIFF as more than a film festival, saying it would serve as a vibrant platform celebrating Nollywood, African storytelling and global film culture while showcasing music, comedy, fashion, arts and the unique cultural identity of Anambra State.
He noted that the festival, in collaboration with the prestigious Silicon Valley African Film Festival (USA), would attract local and international visitors, stimulate economic activities, create employment opportunities and project Anambra as a preferred destination for investment in the creative and tourism sectors.
According to the commissioner, the partnership aligns with the Soludo administration’s vision of leveraging culture, entertainment and tourism as drivers of sustainable economic growth.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Anambra International Film Festival, Mr. Shedrack Nnanna, expressed appreciation to the ministry for endorsing the initiative, describing the development as a major milestone for the state’s creative industry.
Nnanna said ANIFF is conceived as an annual international event that will bring together filmmakers, actors, producers, investors and other creative professionals from across the world to celebrate excellence in filmmaking and foster collaboration within the industry.
He disclosed that the festival, which is expected to become one of the leading film festivals in Sub-Saharan Africa, will be permanently domiciled in Anambra State.
According to him, beyond screening films, the festival will provide a global platform for showcasing Anambra’s cultural heritage, entertainment industry and tourism attractions.
He added that every segment of the entertainment value chain would have a place at the festival, expressing confidence that the initiative would attract investment, promote local talents, create employment opportunities and further establish Anambra as a leading hub for culture, entertainment and tourism in Africa.
Obianuju Umeh is of the Anambra State Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Awka
