Ebonyi Govt bans Free Movie Production, Unpaid production and Poor Remuneration of Ebonyi Actors

The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon Stanley Ogbuewu, has announced a ban on free movie shootings, unpaid productions, and the use of artistes without proper remuneration in the state, as part of measures to sanitise and strengthen the creative industry.

The commissioner also called on established entertainers to deliberately mentor and support upcoming talents in order to promote positive values and ensure the sustainable growth of the entertainment sector.

Hon Ogbuewu made the call on Tuesday while addressing entertainers and other key stakeholders at a Creative Industry Engagement Forum held in Abakaliki.

He explained that the decision to ban free shootings and unpaid productions became necessary following complaints that such practices had continued to undermine professionalism, discourage creativity, and stunt the growth of the industry in the state.

Describing entertainment as one of the most powerful tools for shaping the mindset, attitudes, and behaviour of young people, the commissioner noted that entertainers occupy a strategic position in society and must therefore act responsibly.

He urged practitioners to take advantage of the peaceful environment provided by the Ebonyi State Government to grow their careers and promote the industry positively.

According to him, “Successful artistes must consciously support and mentor younger talents, as demonstrated by MC Walter, I Go Yarn, and a few others. This clearly shows unity within the industry and appreciation for government support.

“I have personally seen MC Walter take upcoming artistes to perform in Lagos and even to his show in Ghana. That is how genuine growth is achieved in the entertainment industry,” he said.

Hon Ogbuewu reaffirmed the commitment of the Ebonyi State Government to the development of the creative sector, assuring stakeholders that more policies and programmes would be introduced to promote culture, tourism, and the creative economy in the state.