The Rivers State Government has called on filmmakers in the state to spotlight the rich cultural heritage of its people through films and creative content.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, made the appeal when he received delegates of the Rivers International Film Festival in Port Harcourt on Monday.
Dr. Anabraba said Governor Siminalayi Fubara recognises the cultural, social and economic importance of tourism, noting that the administration has intensified efforts to boost the sector through strategic partnerships. He cited the ongoing Public Private Partnership (PPP) project to rehabilitate and redesign the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach in Borokiri as part of initiatives aimed at revitalising tourism infrastructure.
He also highlighted recent moves to open up the Ngo–Atlantic–Oyorokoto coastal corridor to investors under the state’s blue economy vision, revealing plans for conservation parks in the pristine shoreline where rare animal species have been sighted.
“As filmmakers, one of the beauties of a film is its scenery, and Oyorokoto offers a picturesque environment that can be showcased to the world,” the SSG said. “We want you to use your films to portray the culture of our people and preserve our history as archives for future generations.”
He praised organisers of the festival for promoting Rivers State globally through film and fostering cultural exchange across Africa. Dr. Anabraba also expressed delight over the positive feedback on the state’s hospitality and security from visiting delegates from Ghana and Zimbabwe, encouraging them to consider Rivers State a second home.
Festival Team Lead, Lady Kate Ezeigbo, thanked the state government for its support, noting that 272 films from multiple countries were auditioned for the 2025 edition, held from October 30 to November 2. She said the festival continues to serve as a platform for industry networking, creativity and empowerment.
A delegation of film producers from the Zimbabwean National Army also attended the visit.
