Ifeanyi Opara is a UK-based Nigerian filmmaker with a deep passion for storytelling, dedicated to telling stories that resonate deeply with bright minds, and making his mark on the global stage.
In addition to his passion in filmmaking, Ifeanyi has a thriving career spanning many years in the telecommunications and tech industry.
This extensive experience provides him with a unique perspective, enabling him to merge technical expertise with creative storytelling.
Driven by a commitment to tell profound and impactful stories, Mr. Opara is focused on crafting narratives that challenge perceptions and spark meaningful conversations. The producer of Amazon Prime Video’s 2021 title; Doctor Lanre has started demonstrating his dedication to bringing thoughtful and compelling stories to life. Looking ahead, he remains passionate about exploring complex themes and pushing the boundaries of what the ordinary mind can achieve.
He also addresses the challenges facing the Nigerian film industry, including the impact of the country’s current security situation, its effects on film productions and the ongoing ‘Japa’ phenomenon, which has resulted in a significant talent drain. Through it all, his focus remains on telling stories that matter, with the belief that compelling narratives have the power to transform both the industry and society.
Q: NOLLYWOOD;YOUR JOURNEY SO FAR
ANS: My journey in the film industry has been driven by a deep passion for storytelling and a desire to contribute meaningful, impactful narratives to the society. Starting off as a teenager with love for script-writing, to creating a passion project titled, “Night” focused on the critical issue of domestic violence, which was a significant step in my storytelling journey. More recently, I produced Doctor Lanre, a psychological thriller available on Prime Video, which allowed me to engage with audiences on a deeper level through its intense and thought-provoking storyline.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about the future. Discussions are ongoing with relevant people in a totally different space and capacity. Far different from what we’re used to back home, but will be made known to the media at the right time.
My goal remains to tell thought -provokingg stories that challenge perceptions, spark meaningful conversations, and contribute to elevating the industry where I come from to the global stage.
Q: YOUR TAKE ON THE PREVAILING SECURITY SITUATION IN NIGERIA, HAS IT AFFECTED MOVIE PRODUCTION IN ANY WAY
ANS:The prevailing security situation in my home country Nigeria has indeed had a significant impact on movie productions. Filmmaking often requires traveling to various locations across the country, and with the current security challenges, it has become increasingly difficult to ensure the safety of cast and crew during shoots. The cost of transportation is even hugely affected too as most people would prefer to fly, as against travelling by road. This has led to limitations in choosing filming locations, increased costs for security measures, and, in some cases, the need to alter scripts or production plans to adapt to safer environments.
Moreover, the uncertainty can affect the overall creative process, as filmmakers may need to compromise on their vision due to these constraints. It’s a challenging time, but it has also prompted the industry to become more innovative in how we approach filmmaking, finding new ways to tell our stories while ensuring everyone’s safety. Nigerians will always find ways out of difficult situations.
Q;WHAT ARE THE MERITS AND DEMERITS OF THE PREVAILING JAPA SYNDROME IN NIGERIA
ANS: The recent surge in Nigerians leaving the country, known as the “Japa” syndrome, is driven by several factors. Economic hardship, including high rate of unemployment and inflation, has made stability hard to achieve. A lot of young people working extremely hard and achieving very little while they deserve more. Worsening security conditions, such as terrorism in some parts of the country, kidnappings and the likes have also pushed many to seek safer environments abroad.
Declining healthcare and education, considering the number of times students stay home for months due to strike actions, with political instability and corruption, have further eroded confidence in the country’s future. We all saw what happened at the last elections.
Additionally, the lack of support for talents and businesses has made it difficult for individuals and businesses to thrive. It is very difficult to do business in Nigeria as a single law can see to the end of all your labours in a flash. These factors combined have led to a significant increase in emigration as Nigerians seek better opportunities and more secure future.
Some of the reasons why especially young people are leaving or perhaps, advantages of leaving would be factors like:
International Recognition: The success of Nigerians on the global stage helps to elevate the country’s image internationally. We are extremely intelligent and talented people. Nigerians have that excellent spirit that anywhere we are, we show ourselves as smart, determined, and our gifts make ways for us. This can lead to more opportunities for international trade, partnerships, and cultural exchange, benefiting the nation’s economy and its global standing. However, we do not think that our government cares so much about us and our gifts, especially for young people except when you have already made a name and they see that you are being recognized outside of the country. Easier access to other countries is also a thing. I live in the UK, but had two vacations outside of the country this summer. I was in Paris, France during the Olympics, and weeks after, I headed to Amsterdam, Netherlands for another vacation, from there to Barcelona Spain. These trips cost money, and I was only able to afford visiting 3 countries in one month because I wasn’t converting Naira to Euros.
Global Exposure and Skills Development are huge advantages, if we want to be truthful. Better education, and advanced skills for those who would like to further their education. Though capital intensive, but worth it in the end. Valuable knowledge and expertise can be shared or brought back to contribute to national development in various sectors, including technology, arts, healthcare, and education. We need to continue to share our gifts and expertise on that global space, and living abroad gives us that opportunity.
Financial Contributions to the Economy. Nigerians abroad often send money back home, which significantly contributes to the economy. These monies support families, fund businesses, and even contribute to infrastructure development in some cases. Considering the exchange rates at the moment, and the high cost of living, this helps a lot.
The key negative efects of these Japa moves would be factors like:
Brain Drain: The most significant downside is the loss of skilled professionals across various fields, including healthcare, engineering, education, and the creative industries. This brain drain has led to shortage of critical skills within the country, hindering development and innovation. However, we are acquiring knowledge and all the things needed for the next level. A lot of people will still return home at different points with all what they have achieved abroad, and contribute.
Social and Family Lives are impacted: Some who would want to leave, but unable to now have sense of hopelessness or frustration, particularly seeing as the economy is getting worse. This also has effects on families that are left behind and long lasting friendships affected by distance. Absence in family functions, which is part of what we are known for in Nigeria. These are places where we meet ourselves and connect with one another.
Workforce: As more professionals leave, the workforce at home becomes less robust, making it challenging to drive the country’s growth. Again, not sure our government cares much. Sectors that require high expertise, like healthcare and technology, are particularly affected, or maybe I am wrong. Someone once said to me that there are now more jobs in Nigeria than ever. Maybe that is true, and maybe the people at home are happier now… Lol.. just a few maybes.
In summary, for those who have left. They can agree with the fact that it is very difficult settling in a new country. More difficult for those who took the education route, as they would have to convert Naira to foreign currency for their tuition. In most countries, students are only allowed to work 20 hours a week, which makes survival very difficult. This has driven a lot of people into debts and depression. And some places, it is difficult to meet people and socialise, which is also a pain. I have gone through these and had the toughest experiences ever, that I almost gave up.
However, all these are at the very early stage of the relocation. With time, everything begins to make sense.
My advice for young people, if you desire to leave, and if you have the opportunity or the resources, just leave. You can always return home to give back or invest.
While Nigeria is ours and we want it to get better, it is still wise to think of yourself first.