Ensuring Safety and Security: Nollywood calls for Unity, Insurance

In an impactful gathering held on the 2nd of May 2024 at the Jay Queens Hotel in Rumuola, Port Harcourt, members of the Nollywood industry in Rivers State convened to honor and appreciate those who rallied behind the late Precious Ofurum who died on 9th of April, 2024, ensuring he received a dignified farewell. The event, orchestrated by Mr. Eric Stevenson, the representative of the new Nollywood in Rivers State, served as a platform not just for gratitude but for profound reflection on the pressing issues of safety and insurance within the industry.

The ceremony began with the introduction of the leaders of the leaders of the Nollywood industry in Rivers State by Mr. Ken Osunwa who is the Chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria in Rivers State.
An introduction of all the other actors from different guilds followed afterwards.

Mr. Stevenson’s address resonated with a call for unity, underscoring the tragic loss of Precious Ofurum and the need for collective action to prevent such incidents from recurring. He appreciated the swift response of practitioners, emphasizing the power of solidarity in navigating challenges. “The successful burial of Late Precious Ofurum became a reality because you said YES to that phone call,” he remarked, echoing the sentiment of shared responsibility.

Highlighting the magnitude of the Nollywood industry in Rivers State, Stevenson elucidated on the diverse talents comprising producers, cinematographers, marketers, and more, all contributing to the cultural tapestry of Nigeria. He lamented the loss of promising talents like Ofurum and called for decisive steps to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Reflecting on the loss, Mrs. Kate Chidinma Ezeigbo emphasized proactive measures to enhance safety during shoots. Workshops and awareness campaigns, coupled with designated safety personnel on sets, were proposed as pivotal strategies to mitigate risks. Mr. Stevenson reinforced this stance, stressing that safety is a collective obligation transcending individual roles. He acknowledged the ongoing debate over accountability but affirmed the necessity of preventative measures.

The discussion pivoted to the critical issue of insurance for guild members, spearheaded by Ambassador Milicent, affectionately known as the “mama of the industry.” Advocating for comprehensive insurance coverage, she underscored the imperative of safeguarding members’ well-being. “Every guild president should enforce this insurance on their members,” she asserted, highlighting the accountability of leadership in prioritizing members’ welfare.

Mr. Stevenson echoed this sentiment, proposing an integrated approach to insurance, where membership registration fees encompass insurance premiums. This, he argued, would streamline the process and ensure universal coverage.
“The cheapest insurance for any guild is fifteen thousand naira and the form for an actors guild thirty thousand naira making it fifty thousand naira.” He claimed.

He continued, “So that automatically means any new member looking to join the guild is insured and for the the old members there can be a revalidation to ensure they pay the fifteen thousand naira for their insurance.”

Addressing inquiries about accountability and disciplinary measures, Mr. Ken Osunwa An introduction of the leaders of the Nollywood industry in Rivers State by Mr. Ken Osunwa who is the chairman of the actors guild of Nigeria in Rivers State, made clear on the ongoing inquiry into the incident, refraining from premature judgments until the completion of investigations. He emphasized the commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring stakeholders of due diligence in the process.

The proceedings ended with a heartfelt vote of thanks from Ambassador Milicent, extending gratitude to all attendees and stakeholders, particularly the press, whose role in disseminating information was praised.

As the Nollywood community in Rivers State navigates the aftermath of tragedy, the collective resolve to prioritize safety and insurance emerges as a beacon of hope. Through unity, proactive measures, and accountable leadership, the industry seeks to honor the legacy of Precious Ofurum while fortifying its commitment to the welfare of its members.

Reported by DAIRO AYOMIDE JEPHTHAH