Sept.20, 2024 (Lagos state) The Lagos State Police Command has assured the organiser of Badagry International Film, Cultural and Sports Festival (BIFIF) of adequate security during the festival scheduled for October 2024.
Mr Viyon Awhanse, the Founder of BIFIF, disclosed this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Badagry on Friday.
According to Awhanse, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the spokesman for the command, gave the assurance when the group paid him a courtesy visit at the Lagos command.
According to the BIFIF founder, the purpose of the visit is to inform the police officer about the upcoming festival and discuss potential collaborations to ensure a safe and successful event.
“During the meeting, Awhanse briefed Hundeyin on the plans for BIFIF, highlighting the festival’s commitment to promoting culture, film, and sports.
“We emphasised the importance of a strong security presence to safeguard attendees and ensure a peaceful atmosphere just like the first edition and any of their past events,” the statement said.
Hundeyin expressed his support for the festival and assured Awhanse of the State Police Command’s commitment to providing adequate security.
The spokesman outlined potential security measures that could be implemented to deter crime and maintain order during the event.
Awhanse said that the meeting was concluded with a mutual agreement to continue discussions and collaborate closely to ensure the success of the festival.
According to him, 2024 BIFIF programme is the largest to date and aims to build on the success of past initiatives by offering top-tier training facilitated by both local and international experts.
“Our ultimate goal is to nurture and support the next generation of African filmmakers, providing them with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the global film industry,” he said.
Awhanse said that the 2024 festival Project Team to work with him included Segun Arinze, the Festival Director,and Ororo Pattaya20km, as Creative Director and Producer.
Others include Yinka Davies, Image maker and Public Relations Officer; Olumide Akinsanya, Project Manager and Mawuyon Ogun, Media Director. (NAN)