In an industry where stories are everything, leadership matters more than ever. Not just anyone can lead a guild that represents the heartbeat of Nigerian cinema but then again, not everyone is Uche Agbo.
With over a decade in the trenches of Nollywood directing, producing, writing, teaching, and advocating Uche isn’t just another name in the credits. He’s a storyteller who understands what it means to struggle, to dream, and to rise. And today, he’s ready to lead.
A Journey Rooted in Realness
Uche’s journey began like many others full of passion, long nights, and relentless hustle. But unlike most, he didn’t stop at telling stories for the screen. He built institutions. He created platforms. He became a voice for those who didn’t yet have one.
From founding the Abuja and Enugu Film Academies, launching Nollywood Insider magazine, and organizing the Coal City Film Festival, Uche has consistently worked to uplift filmmakers across Nigeria. His work doesn’t just reflect ambition it reflects purpose.
And as the current National Secretary of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), he’s already inside the system, seeing its strengths and shortcomings firsthand. That’s not just experience that’s insight.
More Than a Visionary — A Builder
Uche Agbo believes that true leadership isn’t about holding office it’s about building something better. His vision for the DGN isn’t just a campaign slogan; it’s a call to action.
Through initiatives like:
- DGN Academy: Training the next generation of directors
- DGN Digital Reform: Bringing the Guild into the digital age
- DGN Studios: Creating opportunities, not just negotiating them
- Health Insurance and Pension Plan: Caring for directors beyond their prime
- Film Fund & Distribution Initiative: Ensuring stories get seen and supported
- Safety & Legal Departments: Protecting members from exploitation
- National Policy Advisory Council: Building a legacy that lasts beyond any single leader
Uche is charting a path forward one that serves every director, not just the privileged few.
Why Uche? Because the Time Is Now
The film industry is changing. Audiences are global, technology is evolving, and new voices are rising. The DGN must evolve with them.
Uche brings something rare to the table a deep respect for tradition, paired with the courage to innovate. He knows the value of mentorship, because he was mentored. He understands the struggles of young directors, because he once was one. And he sees the wisdom in experience, because he’s lived it.
He’s not just talking about change he’s been living it.
A Promise to the Craft
This isn’t just about leadership. It’s about legacy.
Uche Agbo isn’t running for president of the DGN for the title. He’s answering a call to protect the rights of directors, to champion creative freedom, and to build a stronger, fairer future for Nollywood.
Because when directors thrive, the entire industry thrives.
And with Uche Agbo at the helm, that future looks brighter than ever.
Below is His manifesto
Dear Esteemed Leaders and Colleagues of Our Guild,
I write to reaffirm my commitment to you all. When you give me the mandate, you can hold me accountable to these promises over the next two years:
- DGN Academy – A world class film training institute dedicated to the continuous training and retraining of both Guild members and other industry practitioners
- DGN Digital Reform – A complete rebranding of the Guild as a modern, forward-thinking institution, positioning both young and senior members for new opportunities
- DGN Studios – A production outfit, including DGN News 247, to tell our stories and showcase our work
- DGN Awards of Excellence – A prestigious platform to celebrate and honour our best
- Health Insurance and Pension Plan – Because the welfare of our members matters
- Safety and Legal Departments – Dedicated units to protect and support our members on and off set
- DGN Film Fund and Distribution Initiative – A robust system to finance and distribute films by members. This initiative will address unemployment within the Guild. It must never be said that our elders or younger directors are out of work
- Directors' Residency and Fellowship Programmes – Designed to deepen creativity, collaboration, and excellence within our ranks
In addition, I commit to:
- Deepening internal reforms and strengthening institutional accountability, moving us from a personality driven Guild to one governed by systems and structures
- Establishing a DGN National Policy Advisory Council from day one to review the Guild’s 25-year journey and develop a masterplan for the next 25 years
- Strengthening training pipelines and mentorship for both existing and emerging directors
- Advocating strongly for industry recognition, legal protections, and improved contract terms
- Opening our Guild to international partnerships and co production opportunities
- And most importantly, ensuring that every member of the Guild, no matter their level, feels seen, heard, and valued
Uche Agbo, DGN
The Future is Here… and You Are the Future
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