The Lagos State Government has pledged support for plans to attract 50,000 people to the premiere of Nollywood film “Black Market” in an attempt to secure a Guinness World Records benchmark.
According to Punch, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture Toke Benson-Awoyinka gave the assurance after the production team presented plans for the September 26 screening at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island.
Lagos backs ambitious Black Market premiere
The production team was led by producer Nora Awolowo, co-producer and executive producer Omowunmi Dada and event producer Damilola Osikoya.
Organisers are targeting a crowd of 50,000 for what they hope will qualify as the largest audience at a movie screening.
Benson-Awoyinka said the project fits Lagos State’s broader effort to use entertainment and the creative economy to attract visitors, support young practitioners and strengthen the state’s position as a cultural destination.
“Lagos remains Nigeria’s leading hub for entertainment and creativity,” she said.
The commissioner added that the government remained committed to supporting initiatives capable of showcasing Nigerian talent and attracting more visitors to the state.
She said the project also aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus agenda, particularly its focus on youth empowerment, innovation and growth of the creative sector.
Organisers urged to prepare for massive crowd
While backing the project, Benson-Awoyinka stressed that preparations must reflect the size of the proposed audience.
She urged the organisers to work closely with relevant ministries, departments and agencies to obtain the necessary approvals and ensure professional standards are maintained.
“Events of this scale have the potential to further position Lagos as a leading destination for major entertainment activities,” she said.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, also assured the team of the ministry’s willingness to support initiatives capable of expanding Lagos’ creative economy.
If organisers attract the targeted 50,000 participants and satisfy Guinness World Records requirements, the September premiere could turn a conventional Nollywood movie launch into one of the country’s largest public film events.
