The Africa Film Finance Forum (AFFF) says it has partnered with the NNPC Foundation to empower 1,000 emerging Nigerian and African creative talents through the Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) for creatives.
According to a statement on Thursday, the pioneering initiative will be rolled out during the forthcoming AFFF 2025 conference, from September 16 to September 18, in Lagos.
“Through this collaboration, the NNPC Foundation will underwrite the participation of 1,000 nascent creatives in the comprehensive three-day Film Finance Summit and Market,” the statement reads.
“Beneficiaries will gain access to rigorous, targeted training modules, structured mentorship engagements, and unparalleled networking opportunities within the film investment sectors.
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“The program is meticulously designed to facilitate the cultivation of sustainable professional trajectories within Africa’s expanding creative economy.”
AFFF said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to youth capacity-building, educational advancement, and innovation in Africa’s film and media industries.
Emmanuella Arukwe, managing director (MD) of the NNPC Foundation, noted that the interventions align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly quality education and youth empowerment.
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“We are convinced that by equipping young people with knowledge, skills, and opportunities today, we secure a future that is resilient, innovative, and inclusive for the next generation. The YEP initiative embodies this vision—providing emerging creatives with the training, mentorship, and industry access they need to transform talent into tangible livelihoods,” she said.
On her part, Mary Ephraim-Egbas, founder of the Africa Film Finance Forum, commended the NNPC Foundation for its leadership and commitment to youth empowerment and the growth of Africa’s creative industries.
“This partnership represents a significant investment in the continent’s cultural capital and the future of African storytelling. The film industry is one of the most viable and accessible entry points into the formal economy for African youth—especially those who are unskilled or under-skilled,” Ephraim-Egbas said.
The founder added that AFFF is proud to collaborate with the NNPC Foundation to help young creatives turn their talent into sustainable livelihoods.
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