By Joyce Babayeju
In a bid to strengthen advocacy against corruption and financial crimes, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is exploring a potential partnership with the Association of Movie Producers (AMP). This collaboration aims to leverage film and creative content to promote anti-corruption messages and enhance public awareness of the commission’s mission.
The proposal was discussed during a courtesy visit by AMP National President, Amb Dr. Queen Blessing Ebigieson, accompanied by FTC Chapter AMP members, including Dr. Chris Oge Kalu (Chairman of the Abuja Chapter), Desmond Utomwen (Publicity Secretary), former Chairman Amb. Imaobong Abia, and National member Barbara Odoh. The delegation was received by EFCC Secretary Muhammad Hammajoda on behalf of the Chairman, along with EFCC officials, including Deputy Director/Head of EFCC Radio, Nwanyinma Okeanu, Head of Media and Publicity Dele Oyewale, Chris Oluka, and Ola Oji.
Dr. Ebigieson underscored the importance of AMP and EFCC collaborating to bring anti-corruption messaging to a broader audience. She emphasized the need for training opportunities for AMP members to ensure that films carry the right messages and accurately reflect EFCC’s work, fostering a deeper understanding among the public.
Dr Ebigieson added that as the premier association in Nollywood, with over 10,000 members across 28 state chapters, including the FCT and diaspora, AMP represents, protects, and promotes the interests of the entire producing team in film, television, and news media. Registered over 27 years ago, the association is committed to upholding core values that benefit the industry as a whole.
Muhammad Hammajoda welcomed the proposed partnership, noting that with about 4,500 EFCC staff responsible for fighting financial crimes in a nation of over 200 million people, the collaboration could be instrumental in scaling up the reach of anti-corruption campaigns. He remarked that foreign media often paint a negative image of Nigeria, and by working with film producers, the EFCC hopes to shift this narrative and enhance the country’s reputation. Although the EFCC’s budget for strategic advocacy may be limited, Joda confirmed the commission’s willingness to explore partnership opportunities with AMP.
This potential alliance between the EFCC and AMP highlights the growing recognition of creative media’s power in shaping public perception and addressing social issues. It could provide a significant boost to national efforts in combating financial crime and corruption. The planned collaboration was given a boost with the Commission instantly decorating Dr. Ebigieson as an EFCC anti corruption Ambassador.
