Before now, the Delta State capital showed promise with its location, growing infrastructural development, proximity to Onitsha, a major movie centre, and the relative peace and stability everyone living in Asaba, enjoys. But there is also the factor of geography, a bustling young population, the state’s new status as holiday haven and the changing landscape within the capital territory. This new standing of Asaba is therefore not only a welcome development but also a boost to social life, tourism and leisure. There is also the economic angle to this growth that is already attracting visitors and increasing employment opportunities in the arts and entertainment world.
It is already evident that very few smart and resourceful film directors and producers can resist Asaba’s alluring scenery and tranquility. This, in recent times, has been heightened by a booming real estate market that is decorating the beautiful capital territory and providing irresistible locale for shooting. So, apart from recording in tastefully furnished homes of friendly home owners and other locations in Asaba, the capital territory is also providing other breath-taking locations and backdrops. They include the spectacular hills of Okpanam and the lush and expanse grasslands of Issele-Azagba, Ibusa, Ubulu-Okiti, Otulu, Ogwashi-Uku and adjoining towns and villages that are providing the necessary backgrounds.
Asaba is also one place to spot a celebrity easily these days. A visitor to this South-South city is more likely to run into his or her favourite Nollywood actor than many cities in Nigeria nowadays and the celebs are relocating to Asaba in full force. If the visitor, for instance, wants to increase his or her chances of sighting a celebrity during such visits, then he should visit Asaba Mall, Bellwood Hotel, GL Suites, Ajuya Hotels, Zenith Hotel, Squash Club or Grand Hotel.
In the last one decade or so, Asaba has become a major destination for well-known Nigerian actors, including the up-and-coming ones who are taking advantage of available opportunities and new businesses around movies to launch their career.
Pascal Umeh is Asaba based movie director. As a filmmaker, he prefers Asaba to other cities for many reasons. “Asaba is the undisputed destination; everyone is here at the moment: the stars and the aspiring stars. Frankly, it is easy making movies here because Asaba is peaceful. The people are also very enlightened and that reduces the challenges on our way. I have shot films in Lagos, Aba, Enugu, Awka, Owerri, Ghana and Liberia but there is no place like Asaba. So, we shall remain here”.
This love for Asaba is not restricted to producers and technical directors, actors and actresses are also not left out. Perhaps this is also why everyone is attracted to this city on the Niger. Precious Francis is an up-and-coming actor who believes that her destiny is tied to Asaba. And like Umeh, she is prepared to stay on and keep on. “Unlike Lagos and other tough cities, a young and inexperienced actor is more likely to succeed here in Asaba. We are finding our bearing here very easily, and we are happy for our modest successes so far. As you know, movie making is also cheap in Asaba. I love it here and I know that I am going to make it here.”
A media resource person, Austin Anazia is happy with entertainment in Asaba. He is also excited about how showbiz generally is changing the face of the city in recent times. He believes strongly that acting or the theatre is a billion-naira business that should interest any responsible government. Therefore, he commends the Delta State government for providing incentives particularly in the areas of infrastructure and environment. “It is a very healthy development. And if you also look at the movie industry as an avenue of expression of culture, education and entertainment, then you will appreciate the importance of what I consider a revolution in an industry. We are not even discussing the economics of film and the booming hospitality industry that is directly affecting movies. Generally, Asaba and its environs are better for it”.
This are also the views of a student, Isioma Aduaye-Odiete who acknowledges that actors are now everywhere as Asaba is now their second home. She says they enter their neighbourhood every day and this is helping the local economy. According to her, she appreciates the fact that actors are seen every time and everywhere and this is helping young people who are already looking up to them. However, there are certain things she does not like about many of the actors in Asaba at the moment. “What I don’t like about them is their conduct especially as regards relationship with people. Most of them are proud, arrogant and impudent and this is not good for somebody who hopes to be a positive role model”.
In spite of Aduaye-Odiete’s observation which may be considered a low point in the activities of actors in Asaba, the industry will continue to thrive. With Delta State Leisure Park and Film Project, promoted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Asaba is ready to play host to more directors, producers and actors in search of excitement and new things.
This article was first published in alice, the in-flight magazine of Air Peace.
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