By Ghazali Ibrahim
A new film movement known as Igbowood has been launched in Nigeria, with stakeholders pledging to use cinema as a tool to preserve and promote Igbo language and culture.
The initiative, unveiled in Abuja during the weekend, is driven by concerns that the Igbo language and cultural identity are gradually declining, prompting a coordinated effort to revive them through storytelling and film production.
Leaders of the emerging industry said the project aims to reposition Igbo-language films on both national and global stages, while also creating a structured platform for filmmakers, actors, and other creatives.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Federal Capital Territory chapter, representatives of the group said the industry would focus on telling authentic Igbo stories and exporting them to international audiences as a way of strengthening cultural identity.
They also announced plans to establish a multi-billion-naira Igbowood Village across 36 states in Nigeria, including in Abuja, to serve as a hub for film production, training, and collaboration among industry players.
Stakeholders noted that countries like India, China, and Japan have successfully used film and language to promote their cultures globally, adding that Nigeria must adopt similar strategies to protect its heritage.
The initiative is also expected to address long-standing challenges in the sector, including poor funding, lack of structure, and limited collaboration among practitioners.
Industry leaders expressed optimism that with proper investment and organisation, Igbowood could become a strong cultural force, helping to sustain Igbo traditions while creating opportunities for young creatives.
Nigeria’s film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, is already one of the largest in the world, and stakeholders say the rise of regional industries like Igbowood could further deepen its cultural impact and global reach.
