The Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board (LSFVCB) has issued over 2,000 filming permits within the last year, reinforcing the state’s position as Nigeria’s leading hub for film production and creative industry activities.
Eko Hot News reports that the announcement was made by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, during the annual Ministerial Press Briefing in Lagos, marking the seventh year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
According to her, the permits covered a wide range of productions including feature films, documentaries, short films, and commercial shoots carried out across different locations in Lagos State.
She explained that the surge in permit applications reflects the rapid expansion of Lagos’ creative economy and its growing appeal to filmmakers from across Nigeria and other parts of Africa.
Benson-Awoyinka noted that Lagos continues to strengthen its position as the heartbeat of Nollywood, driven by supportive policies and improved regulatory processes within the state.
She further disclosed that over 10,000 young creatives have been trained through strategic partnerships between LSFVCB and leading creative institutions such as Del-York Creative Academy, Ebony Life Creative Academy, GIDI Creative Academy, and African Film Academy.
The training programmes, she said, are designed to equip emerging talents with globally competitive skills in filmmaking, production, animation, and content creation.
The Commissioner added that the state government remains committed to protecting intellectual property rights and addressing piracy, which continues to pose a challenge to Nigeria’s film industry.
She recalled that Governor Sanwo-Olu had previously emphasized the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms to safeguard creative works during the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
LSFVCB, she added, has also collaborated with major film festivals and industry platforms, including the Badagry International Film Festival, Lagos International Festival of Animation, and Silverbird Film Distribution.
These partnerships, according to her, are aimed at expanding opportunities for filmmakers and strengthening Lagos’ global reputation as a creative and cultural powerhouse.
