By: Felix Ikpotor
As part of its livelihoods programmes, the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has launched a groundbreaking initiative to empower Ogoni youths passionate about the creative arts, particularly in the movie industry.
The three-month specialized training program, executed in partnership with the Theatre Arts Department of the University of Port Harcourt, aims to equip 100 Ogoni participants with practical skills in Acting, Script Writing, and Makeover. As part of the ongoing training, renowned Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Mr. Charles Inojie, facilitated a masterclass, taking the trainees through intensive and hands-on sessions.
Speaking at the session, Mrs. Josephine Nzidee, Head of Livelihood at HYPREP, explained that the motivation behind the programme was the near-absence of Ogoni representation in Nollywood.
She expressed optimism that the training would bridge that gap and produce future stars from the Ogoni extraction.
According to Nzidee, “We want to see Ogoni names in film credits, on award stages, and on cinema screens — this training is just the beginning.”
On his part, the facilitator, Charles Inojie, who revealed that the late Ogoni environmentalist and playwright Ken Saro-Wiwa inspired his journey into professional acting, described the training as a deeply personal moment.
“This session is an opportunity for me to finally say thank you to Ken Saro-Wiwa, who I never had the chance to thank before his tragic and unjust execution,” Inojie stated.
He commended HYPREP for offering what he called “a life-changing opportunity on a platter of gold,” to the trainees and for giving him a platform to honor the late icon.
The training continues in the coming weeks with more industry professionals expected to lead masterclasses and mentoring sessions.
