In a continued effort to strengthen collaboration and foster deeper relationships with key stakeholders in Nigeria's film and creative industry, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) Executive Director, ably represented by the Benin Centre Head, Mr. Elakhe Fred, alongside members of staff, Benin Centre, paid a courtesy visit to one of the industry's foremost veterans and respected pillars, Chief Peddy Ewanseha Okao.
The visit, which took place in Benin City, was described as warm, productive, and symbolic of the renewed partnership currently being nurtured between the NFVCB and stakeholders within the creative sector.
Chief Okao, a renowned industry leader and role model, warmly received the delegation and expressed deep appreciation for the visit. During the meeting, he commended the Executive Director of the NFVCB for what he described as his timely intervention in revitalising the Board and restoring confidence in the nation's film regulatory system at a critical period when faith in the institution had significantly declined.
The veteran filmmaker further appreciated the recognition accorded to him by the present leadership of the Board, recalling that the last time he was officially honoured by the NFVCB was during the tenure of Mrs. Roseline Odeh.
Chief Okao reaffirmed his commitment to continuously support the activities and programmes of the Board, particularly in the area of media literacy advocacy, which he noted remains vital in shaping responsible content consumption and promoting professionalism within the industry.
He also applauded the cordial and harmonious working relationship currently existing between the NFVCB and stakeholders in the Edo film industry, describing recent collaborations as impactful and beneficial to practitioners. He specifically referenced the memorable engagement and collaborative visit to the Commander of the 4 Brigade as one of the positive outcomes of the renewed synergy.
A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of a commendation letter and a beautifully customised NFVCB Classification Symbols picture frame to Chief Okao on behalf of the Executive Director/CEO of the NFVCB, in recognition of his immense contributions, unwavering support, and longstanding commitment to the growth of the Nigerian film industry.
Also speaking during the visit, Mr. Elakhe Fred, Head of the Benin Centre representing the Executive Director, reiterated the commitment of the Board to sustaining meaningful engagement with veterans, practitioners, and stakeholders across the industry, as part of efforts aimed at strengthening professionalism, collaboration, and institutional trust.
