Come May 9, a multimedia company that specializes in producing and distributing content with socio-cultural relevance, Griot Studios, would be thrilling the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with a documentary that centres on Nigeria’s electricity sector.
Titled, Up NEPA, the documentary explores the country’s electricity supply challenges and simplifies the complexities of electricity generation, transmission and distribution across the country.
Up NEPA also probes the persistent issues surrounding electricity in Nigeria, such as the unreliable power supply and its impact on the economy, personal and professional lives. It also examines the historical changes and government reforms within the power sector while anticipating future developments.
Directed by the critically acclaimed filmmaker Ishaya Bako, the documentary provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges of providing adequate and sustained electrical power to Nigeria’s growing population despite being one of the world’s largest primary energy producers.
Bako, renowned for directing award-winning documentaries like Fueling Poverty and Silent Tears, expressed gratitude for the film’s release.
He said, “I am grateful to be able to share this film with an audience. It has been many years in the making. I am particularly grateful to our key partners, the MacArthur Foundation, for their support in producing the film, and also, our hardworking team members at Griot Studios, who have persevered to ensure that this project becomes a reality.”
Up NEPA features interviews with everyday people, cold store owners in Ibadan, plastics manufacturers in Aba and Kano as well as healthcare workers in Lagos. It also interviews industry experts such as Patrick Okigbo, Bart Nnaji, Alex Okoh and Rahila Thomas. Special guest stars include Kate Henshaw and Jude (MI) Abaga.
The documentary’s release is in partnership with The Electricity Hub and the premiere will include an interactive session between industry experts, the development community, and specially invited guests, providing a rich and nuanced conversation about the power sector and possible solutions.
“After the premiere, the film would be released for free online to the general public”, the director informed.
