By Raji Rasak

Organisers of the forthcoming  Badagry International Film Festival say the event will serve as avenue for networking, fostering exploration and  connecting industry experts.

Mr Viyon Awhanse, founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Badagry International Film Festival, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.

According to him,  the event scheduled  for Nov.15 to Nov. 18 will highlight the creative prowess of the youth, offering them a platform to showcase their visionary ideas through film, arts and sports.

“This is a unique platform for filmmakers to showcase with a global audience.

“The event will bring to the fore, the creative talent of the youth and provide them with an opportunity to showcase their thoughts, empathy and breadth of vision through films, arts and sports,” he said.

The CEO, however, urged  filmmakers, creative writers, tourists, cultural and film enthusiasts  to partake in the inaugural edition of the festival.

Awhanse said that the remarkable event would feature an array of captivating offerings.

“This includes free film screening, workshops, Badagry tour, live music performances, cocktails, cocktail and gala night, panel discussions, masterclasses, carnival and bonfire, coastal line activities and award presentations,” he said.

He said that the festival was supported by the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and Mr Bonu Solomon, the Chairman, Lagos House of Assembly Committee on Tourism, Arts and Culture.

“My appreciation goes to Lagos State Governor, Mr . Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his support and encouragement in this project.

“The two commissioners from Badagry, Mr Ibrahim Layode, Commissioner for Housing and Home Affairs and Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende of Youths and Sports have also blessed the festival.

“The lawmaker representing Badagry Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Prince Sesi Whingan and the two chairmen, Mr Olusegun Onilude and Joseph Gbenu of Badagry Local Government and Badagry-West LCDA are all working tirelessly in making Badagry become home for all,” he said.

He said that veteran Nollywood actor, Segun Arinze, is the director of the festival while Mr Gabriel Afolayan, an actor and singer is one of the festival ambassadors.

“Segun Arinze and the state Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, from the Commissioner, the Special Adviser and Permanent Secretary are putting all in top gear to ensure success of the festival,” he said.

Awhanse urged filmmakers, sports and fashion enthusiasts to come and learn a lot about Badagry during the festival.

“This national film festival will give you opportunity to ask questions and explore. Please come and be part of it,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran