By Amos Aar
AHEAD of the Benue Creative Summit and the unveiling of the MACA International Film Festival coming up on March 21st and 22nd, 2025, themed “Benue Creative Economy: Opportunities, Challenges, and Solutions,” industry stakeholders are calling for unity and collaboration among creatives in the state.
Ambassador Nyam Terkimbi Terry, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gafiligadoki Communications, G-Films Academy who doubles as Executive Director of the Benue Creative Summit and MACA International Film Festival, has emphasized the need for creatives to set aside tribal and socio-cultural differences for collective progress.
Speaking to journalists in Makurdi on Saturday, he lamented that the fragmentation of the industry has hindered its growth and urged all creatives, whether Tiv, Idoma, Igede, or from any other ethnic group, to unite in the spirit of cooperation. According to him, the ultimate goal is to elevate Benue’s creative industry and showcase the state’s cultural richness to the world. He outlined key areas where unity can drive progress, including developing a thriving creative ecosystem through cultural exchange, building infrastructure to highlight Benue’s heritage on a global scale, and creating job opportunities to reduce youth unemployment and crime.
Ambassador Nyam expressed appreciation to the Benue State Government, particularly the Governor, Rev. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for prioritizing the entertainment sector and supporting initiatives that will strengthen the creative economy.
He revealed plans for the Benue Film Village and Resort alongside the G-Films Digital Studio, a world-class facility that will serve as a hub for both local and international filmmakers. The project, he noted, will provide a platform for directors and producers to create content in Benue, boosting the state’s visibility in the film industry.
Responding to questions from journalists, Nyam reaffirmed that the festival is open to all creatives, including DJs, models, actors, and musicians, regardless of their backgrounds. He stressed that the event is designed to unite the entertainment industry and create opportunities for all.
Regarding the awards and workshop segment of the festival, the CEO explained that nominees would be selected through a rigorous process, with recommendations from stakeholders, while the workshop would focus on training actors, singers, and filmmakers. The aim, he added, is to equip creatives with the skills needed to compete at higher levels.
Adding his voice, filmmaker and Benue project coordinator Mr. Sunny Okwori, highlighted the untapped potential in the state’s creative industry, stating that while Benue has immense raw talent, many lack the right opportunities. He explained that the decision to start with the summit before launching the festival was strategic, ensuring creatives gain the necessary knowledge and training before being exposed to larger platforms. He further revealed plans to establish a film studio in Benue, similar to the one he pioneered in Kaduna, where he owns the first academy, radio, and television station in Northern Nigeria. He expressed optimism that the new initiative in Benue would provide a much-needed boost to the local film industry.
Film director and Master of Ceremonies, Raphael, Ogbaje urged grassroots entertainers to take advantage of the summit and festival, stressing the importance of participation. He emphasized that the government’s interest in the industry presents a golden opportunity for Benue’s creative sector to thrive and encouraged all entertainers to step up, attend, and be part of a transformative movement that will shape their careers.
According to the organizers, the Benue Creative Summit and the unveiling of the MACA International Film Festival are scheduled to take place at the Benue Metropolitan Hotel, Makurdi, on March 21st and 22nd, 2025. The summit will commence at 10 AM, while the awards night will hold from 6 PM to 10 PM.
