The Igbo Movie Producers Association of Nigeria (IMPAN) has re-elected JohnPaul Nwanganga as president for another two-year term, with a renewed commitment to promoting Igbo language, culture and authentic storytelling through filmmaking.
ENUGU – The Igbo Movie Producers Association of Nigeria (IMPAN) has re-elected Mr. JohnPaul Nwanganga as its president for another two-year term, reaffirming its commitment to advancing Igbo filmmaking, language and cultural heritage.
The election, held on Sunday in Enugu, also produced a new executive team to steer the affairs of the association.
Those elected alongside Nwanganga include Mrs. Ngozi Okeke as Vice President, Mr. Paul Ibeh as Secretary, Mrs. Joyce Ikem as Assistant Secretary, Mrs. Ifemamma Rita as Financial Secretary, Mr. Izuchukwu Orjioke as Provost and Mr. Uchenna Okoro as Director of Socials.
Announcing the results, Chairman of the IMPAN National Electoral Committee, Mr. Okey Zinja, commended members for their peaceful conduct and dedication to the electoral process.
He also praised members who travelled from different parts of the country to participate in the election despite various challenges.
Congratulating Nwanganga on his re-election, Zinja expressed confidence in his leadership.
“You were our president before and you emerged again. We believe in your leadership to take the association to the next level,” he said.
Renowned actress Nkiru Sylvanus, who attended the election, described the exercise as a significant milestone in strengthening the association’s leadership.
“Elections are very necessary when it comes to the leadership of an organisation.
“It is impressive that we are electing new executives, and I believe everything went well,” she said.
Sylvanus stressed the importance of producing more authentic films that showcase Igbo history, culture and heritage.
She noted that many aspects of Igbo history remain untold and urged filmmakers to preserve the identity and resilience of the Igbo people through quality storytelling.
According to her, producing world-class historical films would require stronger collaboration and investment from stakeholders across the creative industry.
Veteran actor Chief Ferdinand Ohanekwu also welcomed the outcome of the election, describing it as a positive development for the association.
“I am happy because the election has produced the legitimate leadership of IMPAN.
“My expectation is that the new executives will perform even better than before and reposition Igbo movies to compete favourably with other Nigerian film sectors,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, Nwanganga thanked members for renewing his mandate, describing the confidence reposed in him as a great honour.
“I feel highly honoured. Considering my age, I see this as a privilege to lead Igbo filmmakers in the country once again,” he said.
The IMPAN president recalled the historic contribution of Igbo filmmakers to the growth of Nollywood, noting that the landmark film Living in Bondage played a pivotal role in bringing Nigerian cinema to global recognition.
He pledged to intensify efforts to preserve and promote the Igbo language through filmmaking, expressing concern over growing fears of language extinction.
“I am open to collaborations that will help promote Igbo language, culture and heritage,” Nwanganga said.
He further promised that the new administration would invest in thorough research into Igbo history to produce high-quality films that authentically portray the traditions, history and cultural identity of the Igbo people.
Visit GMTNewsng for more news stories.
