Edo State, Benin City: A delegation from the Benin City Chapter of the Directors' Guild of Nigeria (DGN), led by its Chairman, Mr. Davidson Izegaegbe, and the National PRO, Mr. Jeremiah Onoge, on behalf of Dr. Victor Okhai-led National Executive of the guild, paid a courtesy visit to the management of Independence Television Benin (ITV), a private commercial television and radio broadcaster headquartered in Glass House, Airport Road City, Oluku, Benin City.

The team received a warm reception from ITV's Managing Director, Engr. Elvis Obaseki, who engaged in productive conversations about the growth and promotion of Nollywood, as well as the professional development of film directors in Edo State and across borders. A collaboration agreement was reached between DGN and ITV in recognition of ITV's substantial contributions to the development of the Nigerian film industry.

The collaboration's goal is to provide a forum for directors and filmmakers to share ideas and information, and build capacity. It aims to combine both institutions' knowledge and resources to improve the quality of Nigerian films and encourage industry growth. By collaborating, DGN and ITV seek to provide additional possibilities for creative filmmakers while also contributing to the overall development of the Nigerian film industry.

ITV's outstanding contributions to the promotion of Nollywood and film directors in Edo State were recognized with a plaque presented by the National PRO, Mr. Jeremiah Onoge, on behalf of the National President's office, Dr. Victor Okhai. The plaque represents DGN's appreciation for ITV's consistent support and dedication to the Nigerian film industry.

Engr. Obaseki expressed his sense of fulfilment with the partnership deal and the recognition conferred upon ITV. He underlined the value of collaboration in improving the Nigerian film industry and assured the DGN delegation that ITV is fully committed to supporting and promoting the work of great directors and filmmakers.

The ITV boss affirmed that “The Directors Guild of Nigeria's courtesy visit to the management of Independence Television Benin is a significant step forward in the search for collaboration and advancement in Nigeria's film industry. With the collaboration agreement in place, DGN and ITV are prepared to make substantial contributions to the development and promotion of Nollywood, not only in Edo State but throughout the country.”

Mr Davidson Izegaegbe, the Edo State Chairman of DGN, thanked ITV for their warm hospitality and desire to engage. He stressed the great talent and potential in Edo State, as well as the importance of platforms like ITV providing opportunities for filmmakers to promote their work.

The DGN delegation included Mr. Jeremiah O. Onoge, DGN NationaL PRO, Mr. Davidson Izegaegbe, Edo Chapter DGN Chairman, Mr. Johnbull Negbenebor, Edo Chapter DGN Secretary, Andrew Osawaru, and Edwin Erabor.

Others include Mr. Stanley Orobosa, Chairman, Cinematography Society of Nigeria (CSN) Edo State, Miss Angela Edosa, Comrade Omorogie Amienye, Social Media Officer, and Mr. Michael Odunshaye.