A delegation led by the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, is exploring Kannywood's potential to generate employment, skills, opportunities, and social transformation across northern Nigeria.
EU Delegation Visits Kano Film Village
The delegation, which included ambassadors and deputies from Denmark, Spain, Italy, France, Czechia, Finland, Belgium, and Austria, visited the Kano Film Village. They engaged with filmmakers, actors, producers, and regulators to gain firsthand insight into how Kannywood contributes to youth employment, education, and economic opportunity in the region.
Observation of Film Production
The diplomats observed the production of a film titled Hindatu, which tells the story of a young girl determined to become a medical doctor despite her family's intention to marry her off.
The Executive Secretary of the Kano State Films and Video Censorship Board, Alhaji Abba El-Mustapha, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation, Ali Nuhu, received the delegation during the visit.
Ambassador Mignot's Remarks
Ambassador Mignot stressed the power of visual and creative arts to influence people's behavior. According to a statement made available to Legit.ng on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, he said: "Creative industries are not only about culture. They are also about jobs, skills, entrepreneurship, and creating opportunities for young people. Across Nigeria, young people are demonstrating remarkable talent and creativity, and industries such as Kannywood are helping transform that potential into livelihoods and economic opportunity."
Kano Film Board's Achievements
El-Mustapha noted that the board has approved more than 10,000 films over the years and supports the industry through training programs, workshops, and stakeholder engagement.
Ali Nuhu added that Kannywood's impact extends far beyond entertainment, creating livelihoods and supporting businesses throughout the value chain.
EU Support for Cultural Cooperation
Team Europe's visit coincided with the European Union's expansion of support for cultural cooperation between Africa and Europe through initiatives such as the Africa-Europe Partnerships for Culture (AEPC). The AEPC is a €30 million program supporting artist mobility, cultural spaces, and collaboration between African and European creative professionals.
This diplomatic engagement underscores the growing recognition of Kannywood as a key driver of job creation and cultural change in Nigeria.
