Welcome Address by Theophilus Akatugba, founder/Chief Executive Officer at the Opening Ceremony of the 2nd Lagos International Film and Cinema Convention (LIFACC) 2024 on Wed. 14th, August 2024.
LIFACC 2024- WELCOME ADDRESS BY THEOPHILUS AKATUGBA (FOUNDER, LIFACC
Honorable Guests, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the 2nd Lagos International Film and Cinema Convention, LIFACC 2024.
I would like to begin by acknowledging the esteemed presence of:
Barrister Hanatu Musa Musawa, Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Honourable Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
The Igala Man, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer, National Film and Video Censors Board.
The Pioneer of Modern Cinema, Senator Ben Murray Bruce, Chairman of Silverbird Group.
I also extend my heartfelt greetings to government officials, film and cinema industry leaders, our international delegates and exhibitors, stakeholders, members of the press, and all distinguished attendees.
Preserving the Magic of Movies:
The inspiration behind this convention was rooted in a deep desire to preserve the magic of movies. It is this passion that has driven me to conceive this idea and lead the organizing team, working tirelessly to engage with stakeholders both within Nigeria and across the globe.
We are in the business of creating experiences- experiences that enrich, engage, and entertain; experiences that bring audiences together, fostering a sense of wonder, community, and belonging.
The Power of Cinema:
If anyone doubts the blockbuster role cinema plays in igniting our imaginations, fueling our economy, or shaping public discourse, let me assure you: people everywhere are eager to see great stories come alive on the big screen. In fact, in 2023, despite global challenges,
Nigeria’s box office saw growth however marginal, with a more better upward trend witnessed in the US, Canada, and other markets.
However, even as we celebrate these successes, we cannot ignore the stark challenges and volatility facing our industry.
Yet, rather than fearing this uncertainty, we embrace it. After all, our industry thrives on unexpected twists and turns, where the unpredictable can lead to renewed bursts of creativity.
The Importance of Collaboration:
We understand the stakes. We recognize the need to do everything possible to ensure the enduring health of cinema.
And we know that the only way to reach our common goals is by working together whether it’s the creative minds who develop the films, the studios who produce them, the actors and crew who bring them to life, or the cinemas that share them with the audience.
Acknowledging the Challenges:
The journey to this years LIFACC has not been without its challenges. Originally scheduled for the 1st to 3rd of August, 2024, our event had to be postponed due to the unfortunate protest that coincided with the opening day.
This postponement had far-reaching and unquantifiable effects, with up to 85 percent of confirmed exhibitors unable to attend on the new dates.
I would like to particularly acknowledge our international exhibitors, including Severtson Screens (USA) and Positive Cinema (Poland), who, despite their significant investments and efforts to be here, will only be able to participate virtually.
Moving Forward with Determination:
Despite these challenges, with great determination, LIFACC 2024 is now a reality, and we are thrilled to have you all here. Over the next two days, we have an exciting lineup of events, including screenings, distributor showcase presentations, seminars, panels, and the emphatic exhibition by Filmhouse, Rich Cinema Services, Eastside and others.
I encourage you to actively participate in these sessions and make the most of this opportunity to connect with industry peers.
The Distributor Showcase:
One of the highlights of this convention is the LIFACC Distributor Showcase, where four of Nigeria’s leading film distribution companies will unveil their upcoming slates.
IU am excited to mention Filmone Entertainment, Silverbird Film Distribution, Cinemax Film Distribution, and Blue Pictures Entertainment. These companies have been at the forefront of bringing some of the most captivating and successful films to audiences across Nigeria and beyond.
Their presentations will offer a sneak peek into the future of cinema in Nigeria, and I urge you all to be the first to take your seats and witness the unveiling of their movie arsenals.
Special Thanks:
I would like to express my special gratitude to our sponsors, including the Bank of Industries, Severtson Screens, FilmHouse Group, Laasa, Silverbird Cinemas, Filmone, Cinemax Distribution Ltd, RCS Technologies, Positive Cinema, Ebony Life Place, the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, and Airpeace.
Your support has been instrumental in making this event possible.
Conclusion:
Lastly, I invite you all to take the time to explore and enjoy the rich experiences that LIFACC 2024 has to offer. Please consult the program guide and make sure you are front and center to experience LIFACC 2024.
Thank you all for being here, and once again, welcome to LIFACC 2024!
