Don Recommends Training For Arts Workers

A teacher at the University of Uyo, Prof. Ben Ekanem, has recommended that arts and crafts workers be given appropriate training on the production and packaging of their products.

He made the recommendation last Friday in Uyo in an interview with newsmen at the ongoing National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST).

“Such training can be in form of specialised workshops not only in Abuja, but in the states and local government areas.

“Funding for such training can be drawn from tertiary institutions, Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and industries within and outside the country,’’ he said.

Ekanem also urged Nollywood to look beyond making money, but invest in developing the standard of the industry.

He declared: “The production of a “cheap one-man show” should be discouraged. Producers should pool resources together for more effective finishing, packaging and presentation of Nigerian films.

“Nigerian celebrities should establish a hall of fame to ensure they promote only shows that are considered to be the best, while politics and politicians should be kept out of such endeavours.”

Ekanem explained that the hall of fame would help acculturate and teach Nigerians tangible values and excellence.

He urged stakeholders in the culture industry to pursue the development, finishing, packaging and marketing of Nigeria’s cultural products.