Stakeholders in Nigeria’s creative sector have emphasized the need to provide more support for women filmmakers to enhance their impact on the industry and foster inclusive storytelling. The call was made during interviews on the red carpet of the premiere of the Nollywood film “Single and Seasoned” in Abuja on Tuesday night.

Produced by Dosh Motif Ltd and directed by award-winning filmmaker Emmanuel Eyaba, Single and Seasoned challenges societal stereotypes about single career women. The film, produced in collaboration with Crystal Fly Productions, was shot in the Federal Capital Territory and features a cast including Dooshyma Kumbur, Nazareth Jesse, David Allgreen, Joy Ugbem, and Linda Akohol.

Speaking on the challenges women filmmakers face, stakeholders highlighted the need for funding and technical support to help them advance their careers. Hajia Zaliha Yusuf, former National Programme Manager of the At-Risk Children Programme, stressed the importance of grants and funding initiatives for women, noting that financial and social challenges often hinder female participation in a male-dominated industry.

“Government at all levels, development partners, and individuals should support women filmmakers because it’s an industry that more females will want to join to make an impact and create jobs,” Yusuf said, commending the courage of the producer behind Single and Seasoned.

Hajia Maryam Saliu added that the filmmaking ecosystem has immense potential for job creation, and that gender equity is crucial for inclusive storytelling. She praised the producer for her determination and belief in hard work, emphasizing the need for broader societal and institutional support.

The premiere of Single and Seasoned not only showcased a compelling narrative but also underscored the importance of empowering women in Nollywood to enrich the industry’s creative and economic potential.