Modok Inc. Founder, Uchechukwu Okoro, has called on the Federal Government to adopt a state-based film production tax rebate as part of ongoing national tax reforms, arguing that the policy could unlock major economic value across Nigeria’s creative and tourism sectors.

In a submission addressed to the Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Okoro said such incentives would accelerate job creation, expand Nollywood’s footprint beyond traditional hubs, and stimulate local economies in underrepresented states.

Okoro noted that despite Nollywood’s estimated annual value of ₦239 billion, the industry remains far from achieving its full developmental impact. He explained that a single mid-sized film production can employ up to 200 Nigerians, including technical crews, drivers, caterers, hospitality workers and artisans — demonstrating the industry’s potential for broad-based economic stimulation.

He proposed a two-tier incentive structure: 20% tax rebate for productions with budgets between ₦70 million and ₦100 million, and 10% rebate for productions below ₦70 million.

According to him, incentivizing filmmakers to shoot across various states while hiring local talent would help decentralize the industry, promote cultural exchange, and boost tourism and small businesses in host communities.

As part of efforts to prepare the creative industry for such policy reforms, Okoro revealed that Modok Academy is expanding its talent development programme nationwide through the upcoming Modok Mobile Academy. The initiative will train and certify aspiring filmmakers across different states, ensuring that each region has a ready pool of skilled crew members capable of supporting increased production activity. Abia State has been selected for the academy’s pilot programme.

Okoro emphasized that Nigeria’s creative sector has the capacity to significantly drive national growth, adding that the real question is how quickly policymakers are willing to implement the necessary reforms to unlock that potential.