Film as a Catalyst for Change: Shaping the Narrative
In Nigeria, a country rich with cultural diversity and history, film has emerged as a powerful medium for storytelling and social change. These films go beyond mere entertainment; they mirror Nigerian society and a significant tool for shaping narratives and driving societal transformation.
This is done in various forms, Nollywood for instance produces thousands of movies a year, different stories, each shaping and influencing our emotions, behaviours, and perspectives consciously and unconsciously.
According to the official website of the international trade organization “Nigeria’s media and entertainment industry, “Nollywood,” originated in 1992. It is currently the second most prolific film industry in the world, with an annual output of around 2,500 movies.”
Films are designed to mimic real life and conversely, we often emulate the behaviors we observe on screen. in reverse, we mimic behaviors we see on screen. From speech patterns to our everyday appearance, there’s no doubt movies influence our daily lives. Robert Altman – American film director and screenwriter describes “filmmaking as the opportunity to live many lifetimes”
We spend around six hours a day consuming media from all corners—TVs, phones, the endless scroll on social media. It’s especially true for the young ones among us. Ever checked how much time you spend on TikTok or Instagram? It’s eye-opening. At this point, Our lives are becoming a reflection of every story, every post we’ve ever seen.
There are numerous movies that have been able to successfully spark conversations and inspire change while keeping the audience engaged.
393 Days (2016), which chronicles the Ebola outbreak in Nigeria, highlights the bravery of health workers and the importance of unity in the face of a crisis. These films serve as reminders of the country’s resilience and the power of collective action.
“Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story: a feature length movie that serves as an exploration of Igbo heritage and the human spirit. Highlighting honesty, dedication, brotherhood, and hard work. But also stays entertaining and appeals to the universal audience.
Sex for Grades” documentary, produced by the BBC’s Africa Eye which prompted outrage over sexual harassment in Nigeria and Ghana. It shed light on a pervasive issue that had long been hidden. As a direct result of the documentary, four lecturers featured in the film were suspended indefinitely.
As well as many other movies. These movies have sparked driven policy changes and improved awareness in areas such as climate change, harassment, cyberbullying, access to Justice
Creatives as an agent of change
The impact of films on our lives is undeniable.
What this means is that creators hold the power to become the drivers of the future. As creatives, we have the responsibility to use our craft to influence and inspire. Our tools—the script, the camera, the edit suite—are instruments of change.
For the creatives out there. Sometimes we might feel too small to make an impact, but the big stories always start small. Network with peers in the industry and tailor your work to making positive change.
You can take your next step by Joining Initiatives such as Homevida, an initiative of the Public and Private Development Center to nurture young talents and teach the art of storytelling through acting, directing, and writing. And Sponsor people to be the next big name in film.
The Homevida program gives young filmmakers an opportunity to join a tribe of filmmakers and learn from community leaders and alumni of the program
We have the opportunity to tell stories that matter, stories that challenge the status quo, and stories that give voice to the voiceless. By doing so, we can contribute to a more informed, empathetic, and proactive society.
ob Title: Deputy Senior Program Manager, Governance , PPDC Job Location: Abuja (FCT) Employment Type: Full-time (Hybrid) Reporting to: Senior Program Manager, PPDC.
Background
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is an organization established in 2003, with its headquarters located in Abuja. PPDC focuses its interventions on promoting citizens’ participation in governance processes and strengthening transparency and accountability, while also improving ethics and integrity in the public and private sectors. PPDC is one of the leading organizations in civil society space in Nigeria dedicated to promoting wider public participation in procurement as a way to curb corruption. PPDC has more than 20 years’ experience in advocating and campaigning on integrity issues, especially in public procurement, contract implementation and public access to information.
PPDC’s work focuses on:
Procurement Governance (PG)
Digital Governance (DG)
Access to Justice
PPDC also promotes open initiatives and open data standards, transparency and accountability, responsible climate transition and gender and inclusion.
Job Summary
The Deputy Senior Program Manager will play a crucial role in leading and coordinating governance and public finance management initiatives within PPDC. This individual will work closely with senior management, program teams, government agencies, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to drive impactful projects aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public finance management and procurement processes.
Develop comprehensive strategies for advancing procurement governance and digital governance objectives in alignment with PPDC’s mission and vision.
Lead the implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring timely delivery and effective utilization of resources.
Program Management:
Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of programs and projects related to procurement governance and digital governance.
Manage program budgets, monitor expenditure, and ensure compliance with donor requirements and organizational policies.
Stakeholder Engagement:
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders.
Collaborate with stakeholders to identify opportunities for partnership and collaboration in advancing governance objectives.
Policy Advocacy and Research:
Conduct research and analysis on emerging trends, best practices, and challenges in procurement governance and digital governance.
Advocate for policy reforms and institutional changes to improve transparency, integrity, and effectiveness in governance processes.
Capacity Building and Training:
Develop and deliver capacity-building programs, workshops, and training sessions for government officials, procurement practitioners, and civil society actors.
Provide technical assistance and advisory support to strengthen institutional capacities in procurement and digital governance.
Monitoring and Evaluation:
Prepare regular reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, highlighting program achievements and lessons learned.
Key Performance Indicators
Percentage increase in transparency and accountability in procurement processes as evidenced by stakeholder feedback and independent assessments.
Timeliness of project delivery against set milestones and deadlines.
Number of knowledge-sharing events organized to foster dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.
Number of policy briefs, research papers, or publications produced on procurement governance and digital governance issues by the Governance Team.
Number of training sessions/workshops conducted on procurement governance and digital governance topics.
Team performance: Achievement of team goals and objectives within specified timeframes.
Timeliness and accuracy of reporting to internal and external stakeholders.
What you will need
Minimum of Master’s degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Governance, Law, International Development, or a related field. A combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.
At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, policy analysis, or advocacy, with a focus on governance issues.
Proven leadership abilities, with experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects.
Demonstrated commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance practices.
Fluency in English (both written and spoken); proficiency in other languages, particularly local languages, is an asset.
Willingness to travel occasionally, as required.
Required Skill
Proficient use of all necessary software to be used.
In-depth knowledge of procurement governance principles, digital governance frameworks, and relevant regulatory frameworks at national and international levels.
Strong analytical skills and ability to synthesize complex information into clear and actionable recommendations.
Excellent communication skills, including the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and present findings persuasively.
Competencies
Strategic Thinking and Planning: Builds Strategic Performance by directing efforts and guiding others toward a clear and unifying vision of the future, while supporting, promoting, and ensuring alignment with PPDC’s vision and values.
Decision Making/Conflict Solving: Has the ability to analyze situations, diagnose conflicts, as well as establish and evaluate courses of action to produce logical, practical, and acceptable solutions.
Influencing: Gains others’ support for ideas, proposals, solutions, and courses of action that benefit PPDC.
Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honor commitments. Supports subordinates, provides oversight, and takes responsibility for delegated assignments. • Takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable
Leadership and Management: Provides clear vision, direction, and purpose, ensuring that team members understand and are held accountable for their roles and responsibilities. Takes an active role in others’ development by providing timely feedback, coaching, mentoring, and learning opportunities.
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) With support from the MacArthur Foundation hosted a Validation Workshop and Focus Group Discussion, on enhancing procurement practices in Adamawa State. The workshop was aimed at fostering transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public procurement processes within the state.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), media representatives, and vulnerable groups such as Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and women. This diverse representation underscores the commitment of the Adamawa State Government to inclusivity and collaboration in the pursuit of improved procurement practices.
During the workshop, participants engaged in discussions, share insights and evaluate the findings of the Public Procurement Assessment Report.
According to Ife Olatunji-David, PPDC’s Senior Program Advisor, the report being presented is the result of rigorous research, comprehensive data analysis, and extensive stakeholder consultations. It provides a holistic assessment of compliance with the Public Procurement Law and the Freedom of Information Act, as well as an evaluation of gender equality and social inclusiveness in open contracting within the education and health sectors in Adamawa State”
The focus group discussions enabled stakeholders to identify innovative solutions, address challenges, and lay the groundwork for a more transparent, accountable, and inclusive procurement system.
Mr Zare Baba, a staff of the Bureau of Public Procurement Adamawa state, highlighted that Administrative bottlenecks impede the process of prompt access to data, however, this workshop has identified new ideas which will help improve access to procurement data.
The Validation Workshop specifically addressed key aspects such as compliance with the Public Procurement Law and the Freedom of Information Act, gender equality, and social inclusiveness in open contracting within the education and health sectors in Adamawa State. By focusing on these critical areas, the workshop aimed to enhance procurement efficiency, value for money, and equal opportunities for all segments of society. The workshop also served as a platform for stakeholders to collectively assess existing practices, develop strategies for improvement, and enhance the procurement system in Adamawa State. By working together, participants will contribute to the overall advancement of the education and health sectors, positively impacting the lives of citizens.
Mr Ishaka Donal Dedan, the Chairman of the Adamawa State NUJ, expressed that the two-day workshop provided him with valuable insights from a journalistic standpoint. He emphasized that the workshop has empowered him to effectively hold the government accountable by utilizing the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.
Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has been at the forefront of promoting enhanced procurement practices, open contracting, and the use of the Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) within several states in Nigeria. PPDC will continue to provide technical and capacity-building support to stakeholders and work together to transform procurement processes and foster transparency, accountability, and inclusivity across various states in Nigeria.
