Filmmakers in Plateau have called on the State Government to support the film industry in the state to thrive.

Mrs Yil Fomwul-Gonsum, the coordinator, made the call during a Strategic Roundtable Dialogue on Friday in Jos.

The dialogue, which brought together actors and producers in Plateau, was organised by the State's Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality.

Fumwul-Gonsum, said that in spite of the abundant resources in Plateau, existing gaps had hindered filmmakers from tapping from the huge potentials for the greater good of the industry.

She insisted that the film industry had over the years constributed to the growth of Nigerian's economy, hence the need for government at all levels to support the industry to thrive.

"This dialogue is a strategic gathering for filmmakers, particularly in Plateau; we are here because we feel it is important for us as filmmakers to have this dialogue 


"Over the years, there is an gap between filmmakers and the government, so, the whole vision for this is for us  to connect, know each other and have a strong voice. 

"But most importantly, this is an avenue for us to call on the government to support the film insurty on the Plateau to thrive.

"Most of us are independent filmmakers, meaning we fund our work by ourselves; but government can support us with funds, logistics, access to locations, among others,"she said.

Fumwul-Gonsum, who said that the firm industry had contributed towards the growth of Plateau's economy and tourism sector, said a property synergy between the industry and government would produce positive outcome.

Speaking, Mr Cornelius Doeyok, the Commisioner of Tourism, Culture and Hospitality in Plateau, promised government's commitment to promoting film making in the state.

He said that the presence of large numbers of filmmakers and conducive atmosphere, had placed the state in a vantage position to thrive in film production.

"We are actively ready to promote film tourism; we want audiences in Lagos, London, and Los Angeles to see our state through your lenses and feel an irresistible urge to visit. 

"The film industry is a value chain; our goal is to ensure that when a filmmaker chooses Jos, he or she should not regret it.

"We don't just want you to shoot in Plateau; we want you to invest here. 

"Help us build the film industry we have always dreamed of; let Jos be the hub where post-production, animation and digital distribution for Northern Nigeria and indeed the continent to thrive,"he said.