MultiChoice Talent Factory Celebrates Eight Years of Investing in Nigeria’s Creative Industry with Regional Masterclasses
MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) is reaffirming its commitment to Nigeria’s burgeoning creative sector with an extensive capacity-building initiative. As part of its eight-year investment, the organization will host 13 regional masterclasses aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of film and television practitioners nationwide.
In partnership with local film festivals, guilds, and industry bodies, these masterclasses will delve into various facets of filmmaking and the content value chain. They are designed to benefit both emerging talents and seasoned professionals, providing them with direct access to industry experts and insights into the evolving demands of the industry.
The inaugural session took place on Monday, 24 August 2026, with the International Sales and Distribution Executive (ISDE) Masterclass, held in collaboration with the Nigerian International Film Summit (NIFS). Under the theme, “From Script to Market: The Future of Cinema in Africa,” the event brought together filmmakers, producers, and industry stakeholders for a comprehensive discussion on marketing and distribution strategies for African content.
This partnership aligns with MTF’s broader goal of building capacity beyond filmmaking, emphasizing the significance of understanding the commercial journey of a film. Participants explored international sales and distribution, gaining insights into how a deeper grasp of these elements can help filmmakers reach wider audiences and unlock greater commercial potential.
MTF Academy Director, Akaoma Onyeonoru, highlighted the importance of understanding the business side of filmmaking. “It is one thing to make a movie and another thing for that movie to travel for the world to see,” she said.
Onyeonoru emphasized that the ability of African stories to transcend borders is crucial for shaping and controlling the continent’s narratives. She also applauded participants for investing in their professional development, noting that broadening their knowledge beyond the creative process can open up new avenues for commercial success.
Esteemed industry speakers, including Kene Mkparu (President/CEO of KOMWORLD Cinemas and Studio KOM Film Production and Distribution), Funmi Onuma (Cinema Expert and Thought Leader), and Ijeoma Onah (Founder of NIFS), shared insights into the sales, distribution, and commercial aspects of filmmaking. Their sessions provided practical perspectives designed to empower participants in their careers.
Building on the Lagos masterclass, the series will continue in other Nigerian states, including Ogun, Oyo, Imo, Abia, Delta, Rivers, Abuja, and Kano. These sessions will be held in collaboration with key cultural platforms such as the Wole Soyinka Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, Ibadan International Film Festival, Pan-Atlantic University International Student’s Film Festival, Twin City International Film Festival, Rivers International Film Festival, and Kano Indigenous Languages Film Festival.
