FG Partners Nollywood to Boost Security Awareness

The Federal Government has strengthened its collaboration with the creative industry as part of renewed efforts to improve security awareness, promote national unity and enhance public enlightenment across the country.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Mr. Emeka Rollas, and members of his delegation during a courtesy visit to his office.

Tunji-Ojo said the creative sector, particularly Nollywood, plays a critical role in shaping public perception and could serve as a strategic partner in communicating government policies and security messages to citizens in an accessible and engaging manner.

He explained that the partnership aligns with ongoing reforms within the Ministry of Interior aimed at strengthening national security architecture, improving service delivery and rebuilding public trust in government institutions.

According to him, the ministry has recorded notable progress in correctional reforms, with investments in rehabilitation, skills acquisition and vocational training yielding significant results.

He disclosed that Nigeria recorded about 13,000 recidivists in 2023, but the figure dropped sharply to around 1,000 by 2025, attributing the development to sustained rehabilitation programmes within correctional facilities.

“The creative industry has a huge role to play in nation building. Through storytelling, film and entertainment, we can educate, inform and reshape attitudes towards security and civic responsibility,” the minister said.

Tunji-Ojo added that leadership must remain focused on solutions rather than challenges, stressing that the reforms being implemented across agencies under his ministry are already producing measurable outcomes in passport administration, immigration services, fire safety and civil defence operations.

“Leadership is about confronting challenges and solving problems. We do not see obstacles; we see opportunities for solutions and progress,” he stated.

He further urged practitioners in the creative industry to use their platforms to promote patriotism, counter misinformation and encourage national cohesion, noting that sustainable development requires collective responsibility.

“We are not where we used to be, and that is evidence of progress. Every sector must contribute to building the Nigeria we desire,” Tunji-Ojo added.

In his remarks, Mr. Emeka Rollas commended the Federal Government for its ongoing reforms in the security and development sectors, describing them as steps in the right direction.

Rollas said the creative industry was already engaging stakeholders across the entertainment ecosystem to support government initiatives and promote messages of peace, unity and responsible citizenship.

He assured that Nollywood would continue to leverage its influence to support national development efforts, particularly in areas of social awareness and behavioural change communication.

The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to a stronger partnership aimed at enhancing security awareness and advancing Nigeria’s development agenda.