A professor of theatre and film studies at Plateau State University, Bokkos, Prof. Edward Ossai, has implored governments at all levels in Nigeria to support the film and video production industry.
Speaking at the opening of the three-day Jos Community Film Festival in Jos, Ossai expressed his desire to promote youth empowerment as a means of curbing crime and reducing unemployment.
The festival, themed “Voice for the Voiceless”, is aimed at taking young people off the streets and providing them with the opportunity to lead a better life.
Ossai, who deals with young people daily, expressed his concern for the number of talented youths in the state without a means of livelihood, who are gradually drifting towards crime.
He was moved to create an avenue for young people to express themselves and earn a living through film production.
He believes that theatre and film production is one area where all of these can be achieved.
The professor called on governments at all levels to support such causes as individuals cannot achieve this alone.
He encouraged the youths not to give up on their dreams and resort to crime, no matter how difficult life may seem.
Ossai urged them to bring out their hidden talents so they can be tapped into and show their talents through the platforms and opportunities provided today.
The Jos Community Film Festival is not just about film screening but also provides opportunities for film production, directing, lighting, sound, costumes/makeup, and other talent hunts.
His Royal Highness, Adagwom Peter Nyam, Traditional Leader of Tudun-Wada Community, on behalf of other benefitting communities, thanked the organisers for the opportunity given to the youths.
He prayed for the sustainability of such programs to help address unemployment, crime, and other vices in the communities.
