Why I’m Repositioning Abuja As Nollywood’s Next Hub — Association Of Movie Producers’ Chairman

The newly elected chairman of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), FCT Chapter, Desmond Utomwen, has unveiled an ambitious vision to transform the Federal Capital Territory into a vibrant hub for Nollywood.

In this interview with ANTHONY ADA ABRAHAM, he speaks on his emergence as chairman, the vital role of producers in the film industry, and plans to reposition Abuja as a thriving centre for film production through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
Speaking on his emergence as chairman, Utomwen said he had been an active member of the Association of Movie Producers for several years and previously served as the guild’s Publicity Secretary for about six years.
According to him, colleagues encouraged him to contest for the chairmanship position despite his initial reluctance due to existing commitments.
“After careful consideration, and out of my passion for the guild, Nollywood, and the FCT, I decided to step forward. I received overwhelming support from my colleagues, and that is how I emerged as chairman. Now, the responsibility is on me to deliver and justify the confidence reposed in me,” he said.
On his vision for the association and Nollywood in Abuja, Utomwen described producers as the backbone of the film industry, stressing that without producers, there would be no Nollywood.
He explained that producers conceptualise projects, secure funding, employ actors, directors, writers, and crew members, while also ensuring proper distribution and market access for films.
“That is why my primary focus is to reposition producers and ensure they thrive. Beyond that, we want to change the narrative of Abuja being seen as a ‘sleepy town’ for filmmaking. Abuja has enormous potential, unique locations, serene environments, and access to policymakers, which many other cities cannot offer,” he stated.
He added that the goal of his administration is to build a strong ecosystem where producers create more films, actors gain visibility, and the quality of productions improves, thereby elevating Abuja’s status as a major Nollywood hub.
Comparing Abuja with Lagos as a film hub, the AMP chairman acknowledged Lagos as the current industry leader but maintained that Abuja possesses distinct advantages.
“Lagos is currently the biggest hub, no doubt. But Abuja has distinct advantages. For us, there is always room for improvement in all aspects. We will seek collaboration and aim for a possible paradigm shift towards industry dominance, but we will not engage in unhealthy rivalry,” he noted.
Utomwen pointed out that Abuja offers diverse filming locations, better infrastructure, and less noise disruption during shoots, making it suitable for both urban and traditional film productions.
“Our task is to harness these advantages and create an enabling environment where investors and filmmakers see Abuja as a viable and attractive alternative,” he added.
Addressing concerns about filmmakers coming into Abuja to shoot without engaging local guilds, Utomwen described the issue as recurring but stressed that his administration would adopt a collaborative rather than confrontational approach.
“Many producers come into Abuja, complete their projects, and leave without engaging local stakeholders. While the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of movement and association, there is also a need for mutual respect and continuous collaboration within the industry,” he said.
He explained that the association intends to create a framework where visiting filmmakers can benefit from local support structures while also contributing to the growth of the Abuja film ecosystem.
“The goal is a win-win situation for everyone,” he stated.
On the duration of his tenure and key plans ahead, Utomwen disclosed that his tenure would last two years initially, with the possibility of renewal.
He listed the administration’s immediate priorities to include rebranding the guild to improve visibility and relevance in the FCT, building strategic partnerships with institutions and stakeholders, strengthening collaboration within and outside the industry, and creating sustainable structures that support film production in Abuja.
He further revealed that meetings had already been held with major stakeholders, including the Nigerian Film Corporation, the Nigerian Television Authority, and the National Orientation Agency.
Speaking on the importance of collaborations, the AMP chairman described film as a powerful communication tool capable of informing, educating, and influencing society effectively through audio-visual storytelling.
“That is why collaboration with government agencies, broadcasters, and regulators is critical. These partnerships will help us expand opportunities, improve distribution, and strengthen the industry,” he said.
Utomwen expressed optimism over the responses received from stakeholders so far and assured that engagements would continue towards building a sustainable future for Nollywood in the FCT.
He added that stakeholders should expect the emergence of a more structured and collaborative ecosystem that benefits producers, actors, investors, and institutions in the coming months.
“Our ultimate goal is to make the FCT a thriving hub where creativity flourishes and quality productions are consistently delivered,” he concluded.