Lagos reiterates commitment to growth of entertainment, tourism sectors

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to the growth and development of the Entertainment and Tourism sectors in the State. Commissioner for Tourism Arts and Culture, Pharmacist (Mrs) Uzamat Akinbile Yusuf made this known during the account of stewardship to celebrate One year in office of the Administration of Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

The commissioner, who gave a detailed account of the ministry’s achievements in the last one-year, said the administration would not relent in giving its unflinching support to the entertainment and tourism sector, adding that it remains one of the prioritised pillars in the development agenda of the administration -THEMES.

She informed that the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board has in the last 365days recorded an impressive level of progress in ensuring adequate monitoring, enforcement and censoring of film production, marketing and distribution across the state.

While calling on film practitioners and other stakeholders in the industry to fulfill their obligations by obtaining necessary permits and documentation, Yusuf noted that monitoring and enforcement are crucial in the film industry in order to curb the sale and distribution of uncensored and pirated works.

“This on its own is to boost the film industry by ensuring that film production are protected as an intellectual property.” The Commissioner also informed that the number of registered and licensed cinemas in the State is now 20, with the addition of seven new ones in the last one year.

Meanwhile, as part of effort to assist movie practitioners to gain legal financial support, she disclosed that the State Government also endorsed Messrs James Amuta Production Company ltd and Lafrique Promedia Limited (Entertainment 9JA) during the period under review.

She assured that the administration doing everything possible to bring to a halt the deficit in film production infrastructure by establishing a Film Village in Lagos.

“The good news we have for you today is that we have been able to secure 85 hectares of land at Ejirin in Epe Division of the State for film production. This will serve as an avenue to build and explore the entertainment sector bringing to fore the talents and creativity of entertainers alike.”

She, however, made it known that the project is a long-term initiative and the implementation arrangement is by Public Private Partnership (PPP).

“Hence, the State government is calling on interested investors to key into the worthy project,” he said.