The American Corner, Ibadan, has equipped 92 aspiring filmmakers, storytellers, students and creative enthusiasts with practical filmmaking skills as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s creative economy and prepare young talents for opportunities in the global film industry.

The three-day workshop, themed: “From Local Stories to Global Screens: American Innovation and the Future of Nigerian Filmmaking,” brought together participants from Oyo State and other parts of the country for intensive practical training covering the entire filmmaking value chain.

Speaking at the opening, Director of American Corner Ibadan, Miss Karamat Ajala, restated the organisation’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through practical learning, innovation and access to opportunities that enhance the country’s creative ecosystem.

Participants also attended a masterclass by renowned Nollywood actor Hafiz Oyetoro, who urged emerging filmmakers to remain rooted in authentic Nigerian stories while producing content capable of attracting global audiences.

Oyetoro stressed that local stories, when professionally told, have universal appeal and can open international opportunities for Nigerian filmmakers.

The workshop featured practical sessions facilitated by actor and filmmaker Kemi Owadara, alongside the Founder and Creative Lead of Calidad Studios and Calidad Film School, Njoku Samuel.

The facilitators trained participants in screenplay development, pre-production planning, directing, cinematography, production, editing and post-production techniques, providing them with practical experience in modern filmmaking.

Working in groups, participants developed scripts, produced and edited short films under the supervision of the facilitators, enabling them to apply the skills acquired throughout the programme.

There was  the screening of the participants’ films, followed by professional critiques, audience feedback and interactive discussions designed to improve their storytelling and technical competencies.

Outstanding teams were awarded filmmaking scholarships sponsored by Calidad Film School, while other participants interested in advancing their careers received tuition discounts for future professional training.

Certificates of Attendance were presented to all participants in recognition of their successful completion of the workshop, while the facilitators received Awards of Appreciation for their contributions to mentoring the young creatives.

The organisers said the initiative reflects the American Corner Ibadan’s commitment to developing the next generation of Nigerian filmmakers through skills acquisition, collaboration and industry exposure.

They noted that equipping young people with practical filmmaking and storytelling skills would not only improve their employability but also contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s creative economy by producing globally competitive content, creating jobs and expanding opportunities within the country’s vibrant film industry.