POOR FUNDING, RESTRICTIONS HOLDING BACK NORTHERN FILMS — FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

The Director of the Kaduna International Film Festival, Audu Israel, says inadequate funding, restrictions on creative expression and poor access to modern equipment are holding back filmmakers in Northern Nigeria.

Speaking with journalists in Kaduna on Monday, Israel said these challenges make it difficult for filmmakers in the region to compete with their Southern counterparts and reach international audiences.

He also identified limited government support as a major concern, calling on the Federal Government to build a practical support system for the creative industry.

According to Israel, Nigeria’s film industry depends heavily on private investment. He pointed to India’s Bollywood as an example of an industry that has benefited from government-backed structures.

He urged the minister responsible for arts and culture to engage directly with filmmakers, listen to their concerns and develop solutions that address their everyday challenges.

“The minister is working, but they don’t feel the impact of the government,” he said.

Israel acknowledged efforts by professional associations to support industry workers, including partnerships with health insurance providers. However, he stressed that these initiatives could not take the place of government support.

“The government has a major role to play,” he said.

On the specific difficulties facing Northern filmmakers, Israel explained that socio-religious considerations influence the stories they can tell and how widely they can promote their work.

He said these restrictions reduce opportunities for creative expression and make it harder for productions from the region to reach broader audiences.

His appeal centred on stronger government engagement, better access to resources and policies that deliver practical benefits to filmmakers.