The Organizing Committee of the African Indigenous Language Film Festival (AILFF’24) is thrilled to announce that Professor Barclay F. Ayakoroma, Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Africa, Toru-Orua, will deliver the keynote address at the forthcoming festival. The AILFF’24 is scheduled to take place at the Amphitheatre, Film Village, Awain Road, Asaba, Delta State, from December 12 to 14, 2024.
Professor Ayakoroma brings an extensive background in theatre arts and film studies, with a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Calabar, a Master’s degree from the University of Ibadan, and a Doctorate in Film Studies from the University of Port Harcourt. His academic achievements reflect a profound passion for indigenous narratives, demonstrated through his extensive portfolio of over eighty published articles and acclaimed plays.
Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Ayakoroma has made significant contributions to Nigerian culture and arts. He previously lectured in the Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt, where he played a pivotal role in the Bayelsa Community Theatre Programme through his consultancy with Living Earth Nigeria Foundation. His notable works, including the award-winning plays “A Matter of Honour” and “Dance on his Grave,” are now incorporated into the Bayelsa State Junior Secondary School syllabus, highlighting his influential role in education.
In addition to his artistic endeavors, Professor Ayakoroma has held key positions in various cultural institutions, including his role as Executive Director of the Bayelsa State Council for Arts & Culture and as Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO). Under his leadership, NICO gained recognition for its positive performance and initiatives that showcased Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage on international platforms, including the successful inscription of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
As a prominent authority in theatre and filmmaking, Professor Ayakoroma’s keynote address will undoubtedly shed light on the intersection of indigenous languages and film, a crucial topic as the global community seeks to preserve and promote African cultures.
“I am excited to discuss the power of indigenous languages in shaping authentic African narratives and how they drive engagement in the film industry,” Professor Ayakoroma remarked in anticipation of the festival.
This year, AILFF’24 will bring together filmmakers, scholars, cultural advocates, and students from across Africa and beyond, fostering a vibrant dialogue on the influence of indigenous languages in filmmaking.
Source: Nollywoodetal
