Nigerian screen legend Pete Edochie has urged President John Dramani Mahama to channel greater investment into Ghana's movie industry, warning that the sector has lost much of its former vitality. Edochie made the remarks during his ongoing Legacy Project visit to Ghana, where he has been meeting figures across the country's creative landscape. He expressed concern about the decline of Ghana's film industry and urged government and corporate bodies to step in to revive it.
Pete Edochie's call for investment comes after President Mahama's 2026 Budget allocated GH¢20 million toward a Film Development Fund. The fund is designed to support production, distribution, exhibition, and skills development within the sector. Edochie suggested that the government fund productions centered on Ghanaian stories, histories, and cultural experiences, arguing this would breathe life into the industry, create jobs, and preserve the country's heritage.
Beyond government support, Edochie encouraged Ghanaian filmmakers to pursue sponsorship deals with major companies. He framed these partnerships as a practical route to producing higher-quality content without relying solely on public funding. Edochie's comments carry added weight given the timing, adding momentum to conversations already underway about how to sustain and grow that investment.
During his visit, Edochie reconnected with old friends in the industry, including veteran Ghanaian actor Emmanuel Armah. On 30 September 2026, he paid a visit to Armah in Accra, underscoring the deep ties between Nigeria and Ghana's filmmaking communities. Despite his concern about the industry's current state, Edochie struck an optimistic note, insisting that Ghana's movie sector still has the potential to reclaim its former standing.
Edochie also expressed concern about the health of Ghanaian actress Moesha Boduong, whom he planned to visit during his stay in the country. Moesha once played his wife in a Ghanaian production, and their last conversation left him concerned after she told him she had suffered a stroke. This personal connection highlights Edochie's commitment to the Ghanaian film community.
The legendary actor's public appeal adds further momentum to conversations about how to sustain and grow investment in the film industry. With the right foundations in place, Edochie believes that Ghana's movie sector can reclaim its former standing. He called on government and corporate organisations alike to take structured steps toward reviving local filmmaking.
As a prominent figure in the Nigerian film industry, Edochie's comments carry significant weight. His visit to Ghana and his advocacy for the country's film industry demonstrate his commitment to the creative landscape of West Africa. The visit and his remarks have sparked conversations about the future of Ghana's film industry and potential solutions to its current challenges.
Key points
- Pete Edochie urges President Mahama to invest in Ghana's movie industry.
- The 2026 Budget allocated GH¢20 million toward a Film Development Fund.
- Edochie encourages Ghanaian filmmakers to pursue sponsorship deals with major companies.
