French Embassy Collaborates NIFS to Position Nigerian Creative Sector for International Business at MIPCOM Cannes

Paris, France – In a remarkable step for Nigeria’s creative sector, the French Embassy, in collaboration with the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit (NIFS), sponsored over 20 Nigerian creatives to the prestigious MIPCOM event in Cannes. This delegation included a talented mix of Nigerian film writers, producers, audiovisual technologists, and film business entrepreneurs, representing the strength and diversity of Nigeria’s burgeoning Film and TV industry.

At the forefront of this delegation was the Nigerian Pavilion, a dynamic hub for showcasing Nigeria’s rich storytelling culture and fostering high-level discussions with global media and entertainment leaders. The Nigerian delegation’s engagements at MIPCOM opened up valuable new opportunities, reinforcing Nigeria’s growing presence in the international film and television landscape and highlighting the unique narratives Nigerian creators bring to global audiences.

Ijeoma Onah, the CEO/Founder of NIFS, and the co-leader of the Nigerian delegation with Mr Christophe Pecot, Audiovisual Attaché of the French Embassy in Nigeria, said that “This experience has been transformative for Nigeria’s creative industry, expanding business relationships with the French and global community through this strategic partnership with the French Embassy, and further affirming the role of collaboration in amplifying the reach of Nigerian storytelling on the global stage.”

Speaking further she said, “Indeed we are excited with the level of partnership from the French Embassy in supporting film and TV professionals with a Nigerian Pavilion at the largest global content distribution market MIPCOM Cannes. Through this partnership, our resolve to continue to drive international business for local Nigerian companies has been reinforced and with the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit we remain committed to the huge international revenue opportunities through licensing of local programs because this market and its outcome will definitely elevate and transform the dynamics of international distribution for local companies in Nigeria.”

She expressed gratitude to the French Embassy for collaboration and effective partnership in ensuring that the Nigerian delegation shone like a thousand stars in the Cannes festival firmament. “Thanks to the generous support and partnership of the French Embassy which made this possible. The Nigerian Pavilion became a space of impactful exchange, connecting Nigeria’s industry innovators with international stakeholders.” Our green white green colour was all over the place, proclaiming the beauty and flourish of our country, in the realm of entertainment, creativity, innovation, and technology.”

Christophe Pecot, highlighted the Embassy’s commitment to fostering partnerships within the Nigerian audiovisual sector. “My job is to build and implement cooperation between Nigeria and the French audiovisual industry, which is why we’re here at Cannes for MIPCOM,” Pecot explained. Co-leading a group of about 20 Nigerian companies Pecot underscores the goal of creating international opportunities. “We’re connecting Nigerian creators with global broadcasters, aiming to help them bring their content to audiences worldwide,” he added.

For Colette Otusheso, CEO, Accelerate Group, MIPCOM has provided a rewarding experience in strengthening Nigerian contents’ global reach. “The Nigerian Pavilion has been incredibly supportive,” Otusheso shared. “With a dedicated space for meetings, we’ve been able to explore strategic partnerships with production companies worldwide. It’s been encouraging to see filmmakers, studios, and distributors, actively seeking the kind of content we have,” she noted – reflecting the growing demand for Nigerian storytelling on the world stage.

Ferdinand Ademefe, CEO, Magic Carpet Studios, emphasizes the importance of international collaboration and shared inspiration. “As someone passionate about film and animation, MIPCOM offers us a view of what’s possible globally,” he stated. “From Europe, to Asia, to America, this platform allows us to see the diversity of creative expression and to position Nigeria as an essential part of that global dialogue.”
Over the course of four days, participants engaged in networking, knowledge sharing, and collaborative efforts aimed at pushing Nigerian content to the global forefront. Industry professionals, TV catalogue right holders came together to explore new opportunities and address the challenges facing the industry.

Through MIPCOM, Nigerian audiovisual leaders and creators are not only amplifying their voices but are also forging pathways for collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange. This presence shows Nigeria’s expanding role in the global entertainment industry and its potential to be a hub for content that resonates with audiences everywhere.

The event underscored the importance of nurturing and expanding Nigeria’s position in global content markets, as conversations and partnerships established at MIPCOM Cannes pave the way for increased opportunities for Nigerian creators and productions. With newfound partnerships and future-focused dialogues, Nigeria is poised to make significant strides in the film, TV, and audiovisual sectors worldwide.

TY Buratai Literary Initiative Recognizes Excellence in Young Adult Literature

By Lawrence Bilal Audu

The Tukur Buratai Research Centre (TBRC) has announced plans to host the TY Buratai Literary Initiative Award Ceremony, celebrating exceptional writers in the Young Adult Literature category.

Scheduled for November 1, 2024, at the Tukur Buratai Research Centre, Gora, Abuja-Keffi Expressway, Nasarawa State, the event promises to be an unforgettable evening of literary excellence.

According to organizers, the ceremony aims to recognize and reward talented writers who have made significant contributions to young adult literature. The initiative seeks to promote literary talent, inspire future generations, and foster a culture of reading and writing.

The event will feature keynote addresses by renowned literary figures, award presentations, readings, and performances by young writers. Attendees will also have opportunities to network with publishing industry professionals.

The TY Buratai Literary Initiative Award Ceremony is expected to draw literary enthusiasts, writers, and industry experts from across Nigeria.

This epoque-making event highlights the importance of nurturing literary talent and promoting young adult literature in Nigeria.

BUA Foods Grows Revenue To N1.07 Trillion, Gross Profit Rises 82% In Nine Months

 Revenue soars 104% to N1.07 trillion

 Gross Profit grows by 82% to ₦333.82 billion

 Profit After Tax rises by 91% to ₦201.38 billion

 Earnings Per Share (EPS) increases by 91% to N11.19

BUA Foods Plc, makers of BUA Sugar, BUA Rice, IRS Flour, IRS Pasta, and IRS Semolina, has released its unaudited financial results for the nine months ended September 2024, marking a year-on-year performance leap.

The company’s revenue for the nine-month period grew by 104% to N1.07 Trillion, a significant jump from the N524.42 billion reported in the same period last year. Gross profit surged by 82%, hitting N333.82 billion compared to N183.78 billion in 9M of 2023, further consolidating the company’s standing in Nigeria’s food manufacturing industry. Its profit after tax increased by 91% to hit N201.38 billion, rising from N105.61 billion during the comparable period, last year.

A key driver of this performance was a year-on-year increase of 73 percent in sugar sales to ₦544.4 billion, 160 percent in flour sales to ₦389.9 billion, and 131 percent in pasta sales to ₦134.8 billion reflecting the company’s commitment to creating long-term value for all stakeholders.

Operating expenses saw a 56% increase to ₦43.86 billion on the back of a rise in selling and distribution costs due to inflation.

BUA Foods’ strong financial performance positions the company to achieve one of its 2025 goals of becoming Nigeria’s biggest flour, and pasta milling company after signing strategic agreements with Turkish and Italian firms to increase its pasta production capacity to 900, 000 metric tonnes per annum and flour to 2.5 million metric tonnes per annum.

This impressive growth trajectory has been recognised with numerous accolades. Just last week, BUA Foods emerged as the first Nigerian company to be honoured with the prestigious Company of the Year award at the 2024 All Africa Business Leaders Awards in partnership with CNBC in South Africa. Additionally, the company recently received the Most Valuable Indigenous Food Company of the Year award, the Customer-centric FMCG Corporate Brand of the Year award, while its IRS Premium Wheat Flour was named Flour Brand of the Year 2024.

Commenting on the results, the Managing Director of BUA Foods, Engr. (Dr.) Ayodele Abioye, said:

“We are thrilled to have sustained a remarkable growth trajectory, underscoring the impact of our strategy, innovative product development, and steadfast commitment to quality, even in the face of a challenging business climate”.

“Revenue grew by 104% to N1.07 Trillion compared to the same period last year, while our gross profit stands at N333.8 billion, reflecting a growth of 82%. We saw the benefits of our production capacity expansion and product innovation, as we witnessed an 11% growth in aggregate volume which has further strengthened our position within the industry”.

“Looking ahead, we will remain steadfast in addressing current food supply challenges by leveraging newly commercialised supply chain assets and partnerships across our business divisions. We would maintain a focus on driving internal efficiencies for business growth towards delivering long-term shareholder value.

We thank our stakeholders, particularly our customers, and consumers for their love for the brand even as we continue to nourish lives”.