*Chicheta Ofoegbu: A Promising Talent in Nigerian Cinema Through Vicarious Learning.

The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, is celebrated for its rapid growth and significant contributions to global cinema. In this context, emerging filmmakers like Chicheta Ofoegbu are carving their paths, utilizing vicarious learning to gain insights and shape their unique creative styles. Ofoegbu’s recent project, “Film Directing in Nigeria: Izu Ojukwu in *‘76,’” offers a profound reflection on the work of the award-winning Nigerian director Izu Ojukwu, positioning Ofoegbu as a promising talent with a deep understanding of film directing.

Ofoegbu’s review of ‘76 explores the nuances of filmmaking in Nigeria, a country where the director plays a pivotal role in a production’s success or failure. Through his research, Ofoegbu delves into the specific challenges Nigerian directors face, such as limited financial resources, societal undervaluation of directors, and the overwhelming responsibilities that come with managing a production. However, he highlights how Izu Ojukwu overcame these obstacles to produce a film that not only earned critical acclaim but also resonated with both local and international audiences.

‘76, directed by Izu Ojukwu, stands as a prime example of successful storytelling, despite the constraints within the Nigerian film industry. Set against the backdrop of the 1976 military coup that shook Nigeria, the film combines historical accuracy with an emotional narrative, focusing on the life of a soldier and his wife during turbulent political times. Ofoegbu’s analysis of this film showcases his ability to critically engage with complex storytelling, while also appreciating the technical aspects of directing that bring a script to life.

Ofoegbu’s work on this project goes beyond a mere academic exercise. It reflects his dedication to learning from the masters of the industry. By carefully studying Ojukwu’s methods and vision, Ofoegbu has absorbed invaluable lessons in directing. His interviews with the director reveal Ojukwu’s meticulous approach to filmmaking, from casting to set design, all while maintaining the integrity of the story. Ofoegbu is clearly inspired by Ojukwu’s ability to balance creative expression with the logistical challenges of filmmaking in Nigeria.

Moreover, Ofoegbu’s exploration of Ojukwu’s career illustrates his own aspirations in the film industry. His project underscores the importance of patience, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to quality — traits that Ofoegbu himself demonstrates. By positioning Ojukwu as a role model, Ofoegbu hints at his desire to follow in the footsteps of one of Nollywood’s most respected directors, while also forging his distinct creative path.

In his own words, Ofoegbu suggests that “those who want to become directors should chase their creativity by being ingenious,” a sentiment that reflects his understanding of the need for resilience in the face of challenges. This mindset positions him as a filmmaker who is not only aware of the industry’s demands but is also prepared to meet them with innovation and determination.

As Chicheta Ofoegbu continues to develop his craft, his work on ‘76 serves as a testament to his potential in the Nigerian film industry. Through vicarious learning, he is gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to become a prominent figure in Nollywood, following in the footsteps of his mentor, Izu Ojukwu, and contributing to the evolution of Nigerian cinema.

Ofoegbu’s commitment to his craft and his ability to learn from established figures in the industry make him a promising talent to watch. With his passion for storytelling and directing, there is no doubt that he will soon be recognized as one of the next generations of great Nigerian filmmakers.

Toronto Set For A Double Dose Of Spiritual Revival With Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe

Toronto is gearing up for an unprecedented spiritual revival, as Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, widely known as Genesis, headlines two major events that promise to bring transformation, healing, and divine breakthroughs. The city will experience back-to-back encounters with God, starting with Live in Canada on October 27, 2024, followed by the 3 Days Prophetic Conference from November 1 to 3, 2024.

These events, under the leadership of Prophet Genesis, are poised to awaken faith and spark miracles in the lives of attendees, offering an opportunity to connect with God like never before.

Live in Canada : Unstoppable God

Hosted by Starboard Entertainment, Live in Canada kicks off the spiritual wave on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at CC Foundation of Light, Moto Parish in York. Under the theme Unstoppable God, this service will begin at 10:00 AM, and will feature Prophet Genesis delivering a powerful message of hope, perseverance, and faith in the face of life’s challenges.

– Venue : 173 Westbound Rd., York, M9N1VC

– Contact : +1 (437) 771 3205

Known for his prophetic insight and uplifting sermons, Prophet Genesis will be ministering to the audience, bringing forth messages that ignite faith and remind believers of God’s unstoppable power. This event promises to be a divine encounter filled with worship, prayers, and a fresh outpouring of grace, setting the tone for the spiritual awakening that follows.

3 Days Prophetic Conference : Dry Bones Shall Live Again

Continuing the wave of revival, Nations Transformation Ministries will host a 3 Days Prophetic Conference themed Dry Bones Shall Live Again from Friday, November 1 to Sunday, November 3, 2024. This conference will be held at 2589 Eglinton Ave West, York, and will feature Apostle Peter Dike alongside Prophet Genesis.

– Friday : 7:00 PM

– Saturday : 6:00 PM

– Sunday : 1:00 PM

– For Inquiries :+1 (416) 319 8057, +1 (647) 637 3623

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.nationstransformation.org

The prophetic conference, under the powerful theme Dry Bones Shall Live Again, will focus on restoring hope, healing, and breakthrough to those who have been facing spiritual, emotional, or physical struggles. Through intense prayers, prophetic declarations, and teachings, Apostle Peter Dike and Prophet Genesis will minister to participants, ensuring they leave empowered and revitalized.

A Unified Spiritual Movement :

These two events are set to create a ripple effect of revival across Toronto, with Prophet Genesis at the helm. Whether it’s the message of an Unstoppable God on October 27, or the prophetic awakening that promises to breathe life into every “dry bone” from November 1 to 3, attendees can expect divine encounters that will change the trajectory of their lives.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary move of God. Join the Live in Canada service and the 3 Days Prophetic Conference to experience the power of faith and prophecy at work. For more information, contact the event hotlines and prepare for a season of spiritual renewal.

EFCC Partners Firm to Establish Cybercrime Research Centre
– Olukoyede

As part of the efforts to prevent cybercrime and channel the digital skills of young Nigerians to more productive ventures, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has concluded plans to establish a Cybercrime Research Centre.

The Centre, which is being put together in partnership with a foremost fintech firm, Flutterwave, will serve as a research and resource centre for empowering Nigerian youths.

This was disclosed in Abuja on Tuesday by the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, at the National Summit on Cybercrime.

The Summit, with the theme “Alternatives to Cybercrimes: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development”, was part of the activities lined up to mark the first year in office of Mr. Olukoyede.

The EFCC helmsman said, “This Summit is the second to be organised by the Commission this year on the same issue owing to the overarching need for us to articulate opinions and build greater strength against the scourge of cybercrimes. This time around, we are not only interrogating the problem, we are aggregating workable solutions to it. This underscores the theme: Alternatives to Cybercrimes: Optimising Cyber Skills for National Development.”

He bemoaned the erosion of acceptable family values and the tendency towards quick riches among young people instead of leaning towards enterprise, resourceful intellectual aspirations and technological innovations.

“Projections by multiple sources show that the global loss to cybercrimes may reach a staggering $10.5 trillion by 2025, with approximately 2,328 (Two Thousand, Three Hundred and Twenty-eight) cases occurring daily. The implication of all these is that, if left unchecked, cybercrimes portend grave dangers to the entire world.

“These are the realities stoking the Commission’s fight against these crimes. Cybercrime accounts for a significant percentage of the 3455 convictions recorded by the EFCC in my one year as Executive Chairman. A significant portfolio of choice assets have also been recovered and returned to both local and foreign victims of cybercrimes by the Commission,” Olukoyede said.

He reasoned that things have gotten a stage where there is a compelling need to “change the narrative from criminality to productivity, from idleness to usefulness and cybercrimes to cyber wealth”.

“To this end, the EFCC under my leadership, is completing work on a Cybercrime Research Centre where globally-competitive research would be running as an alternative avenue of empowering our youths. The Centre, the product of collaboration with one of our foremost FinTechs, Flutterwave, is envisioned as a learning, rehabilitating and refocusing centre for youths across the country. It could also serve as a research resort for law enforcement agencies interested in deeper understanding of issues involved in cybercrimes,” Olukoyede said.

He noted that the commission was not unaware of the misconceptions in certain quarters that it was concentrating on the fight against internet crimes.
“While this narrative is not really true, the fact remains that cybercrime threatens the nation’s most significant asset – its reputation, and economic wellbeing. The losses by the financial services sector to cybercrime in the last three years is staggering. We cannot continue to sit idly and watch the integrity of our institutions compromised and our youths degenerate into uselessness. The future of our nation cannot and would not be allowed to hang in the balance. We must take collective actions against cybercrimes,” Olukoyede said.

On alternatives to cybercrimes, the EFCC Chairman said, “There are ample skills that can be optimized for national development. It is this lack of serious cogitation on the alternatives that has not made our youths shift their focus from criminal tendencies. First, there is the alternative of creative and innovative development of socially-beneficial applications that can deliver better prospects than internet fraud.

“Today’s event is tailored towards exposing young Nigerian with strong tech skills to the opportunities that abound in various industries and sectors for legitimate wealth creation and honest livelihood. These opportunities can be found in the creative industry, tech ecosystem, financial services sector, medical services and even law enforcement.”

He also disclosed that the EFCC is setting up a Cybercrime Response Desk as part of its corruption prevention mandate of the Commission

“The Cybercrime Response Desk is to receive and process real time information on suspected cybercrime for immediate enforcement action to nip such cases in the bud. The initiative, in our estimation, will help in reducing incidences of cybercrime and possible loss of money by victims,” he said.

Olukoyede appealed to parents and all well-meaning Nigerians to join the EFCC in the fight against corruption and internet fraud, adding that the quality of our future as a people depends on what we do to tackle the menace today.

“Let me use this opportunity to appeal to the conscience of parents and heads of institutions across the country to regard the fight against internet fraud as a compelling endeavour. The quality of the future leadership of our nation depends on what we do with the issue of cybercrimes today. Tomorrow is not a promise. Tomorrow is a fruit of preparation. We must all join hands together to tackle the hydra-headed monster which internet fraud has become,” he added.