The newly elected chairman of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), FCT Chapter, Desmond Utomwen, has outlined 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 critical 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.
Can you tell us about your emergence as Chairman of AMP, FCT Chapter?
Thank you very much. I have been an active member of the Association of Movie Producers for years. Last year, I was encouraged by colleagues to contest for the chairmanship position after serving the guild in different capacities, including as Publicity Secretary for about six years. Initially, I was reluctant because of my existing commitments, but 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.
What is your vision for the Association and Nollywood in Abuja?
The producer is the backbone of the film industry. Without producers, there is no Nollywood. Producers conceptualise projects, secure funding, and employ every other practitioner — actors, directors, writers, and crew. If producers are not financially sustainable, the entire industry suffers. They source markets and ensure proper distribution of 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.
Our goal is to build a strong ecosystem where producers create more films, actors gain visibility, and the overall quality of productions improves. This will elevate Abuja’s status as a major Nollywood hub.
Abuja is often compared to Lagos as a film hub. How do you plan to compete?
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.
Abuja offers diverse filming locations, better infrastructure, and less noise disruption during shoots. You can shoot high-end urban scenes, as well as epic or traditional films, all within Abuja. The environment supports creativity in ways many places cannot.
Our task is to harness these advantages and create an enabling environment where investors and filmmakers see Abuja as a viable and attractive alternative.
There have been concerns about filmmakers coming into Abuja to shoot without engaging local guilds. What is your position on this?
Yes, this has been a recurring issue. 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.
We are not approaching this from a confrontational angle. Instead, we are adopting a collaborative strategy. We want to build a system where visiting filmmakers can benefit from local support structures while also contributing to the growth of the Abuja film ecosystem.
We are engaging stakeholders and working towards a framework that encourages partnership rather than conflict. The goal is a win-win situation for everyone.
How long is your tenure and what are your key plans?
My tenure is for two years initially, with the possibility of renewal. Our immediate focus includes: Rebranding the guild to improve visibility and relevance in the FCT, building strategic partnerships with key institutions and stakeholders, strengthening collaboration within and outside the industry and creating sustainable structures that support film production in Abuja
We have already held meetings with major stakeholders, including the Nigerian Film Corporation, the Nigerian Television Authority, and the National Orientation Agency, among others.
Why are these collaborations important?
Film is a powerful communication tool. It combines audio and visual elements to inform, educate, and influence people more effectively than many other mediums. 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. The responses we have received so far have been very encouraging, and we will continue engaging stakeholders to build a sustainable future for Nollywood in the FCT.
What should stakeholders expect in the coming months?
We are working towards establishing a structured and collaborative ecosystem that benefits everyone — producers, actors, investors, and institutions. Very soon, the results of our engagements and initiatives will begin to show.
Our ultimate goal is to make the FCT a thriving hub where creativity flourishes and quality productions are consistently delivered.
