The Lagos Business of Film Summit arrives at a pivotal moment for Nollywood, as the industry reflects on a decade of growth and confronts the structural decisions that will shape its future. Conceived as a platform for strategic dialogue, the summit brings together key stakeholders to examine the business, policy, and investment frameworks required to sustain Nollywood’s expanding influence at home and on the global stage.
On Friday, January 30, key players and enthusiasts will gather at the Lagos Business of Film Summit, organised by Ope Ajayi, CEO of Cinemax. This event is focused on unlocking opportunities within Nigeria’s rapidly evolving film sector. The summit will feature industry leaders and creatives, including Mo Abudu, CEO of EbonyLife Group, Kunle Afolayan, Tosin Dabiri, Naz Onuzo, Mercy Aigbe and Bisola Aiyeola. Additional contributors to panel sessions include Michael Ariyibi, Abraham Popogbe, Fola Olusanya, Adetutu Laditan, Biodun Stephen, Ope Ajayi, Ladun Awobokun, and Shileola Ibironke, along with Tosin Dabiri from Chapel Hill.
Conversations at the summit will centre on the business and future direction of Nollywood, with a focus on financing, funding structures, evolving distribution models, the impact of new tax laws on the creative sector, and the growing influence of streaming platforms. Discussions will also address industry structure, access to capital, and return on investment, with the goal of strengthening Nollywood’s long-term sustainability and global competitiveness.
Explaining the motivation behind the summit, Ope Ajayi told TVC News that “The desire is borne of the need to collaborate even more,” challenging stakeholders to ask, “How do we go from the present box office numbers to more in this decade?” He highlighted the power of the media and the need to harness it effectively, stating that “we need concerted efforts to sell our country and bridge the knowledge gap”, while expressing optimism that the summit’s high-powered networking sessions will help propel the industry forward.
As Nollywood enters a new decade shaped by shifting audience habits, global partnerships, and regulatory reforms, the Lagos Business of Film Summit stands as a timely platform for reflection and action. By bringing together key decision-makers, creatives, financiers, and policymakers, the summit aims to move conversations beyond success stories toward sustainable structures that can support long-term growth.
