The Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, has recorded a milestone with the maiden stage drama production of its newly established Department of Film and Multimedia Production under the School of Communication and Media Studies (SCMS).
The historic event, held on September 11 at the main Polytechnic campus, brought together management, staff, students, alumni, and guests.
Representing the Rector, Engr. Dr. Kamoru O. Kadiri, former Director of Information, Public Relations, and Protocols, Mr. Olayinka Iroye, said the performance reflected the vision of the Rector to reposition the School of Communication as a hub for creative expression and professional training.
He assured students and staff of continuous investment in the department. He added that “millions of naira” had already been committed to ongoing renovation and facility upgrades.
Pioneer Dean of the School of Communication and Media Studies, Dr. David Binta Oloyede, described the drama project as “a cultural tool and a proud beginning.”
He applauded the courage of the students and the resilience of the faculty in laying a solid foundation ahead of the department’s accreditation.
Head of Department, Hajia Chinwe Jameelah Aiyelabegan, recounted the challenges faced during the unbundling of Mass Communication, which led to the creation of Journalism and Media Studies, Strategic Communication, and eventually Film and Multimedia Production.
She praised the support of the Polytechnic’s management and the determination of students who, despite limited resources, pushed for the maiden stage drama.
“These students told me, ‘Mommy, we can do it,’ and today they have proven it,” she said, dedicating the success of the production to the students’ creativity and persistence.
The event also witnessed goodwill messages from academic leaders, including Properior of Lens Institutions, Dr. Azeez Yisa, Dr. Toyin Ore of the Business Administration Department and Dr. Emiola, Dean of Exams (of FEDPOFFA), who hailed the project as a model for cultural rebirth in Nigerian polytechnics.
Guests commended the quality of the performance. They hailed it as a showcase of talent that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the nation while positioning the Polytechnic as a centre for film and multimedia education.
The Department of Film and Multimedia Production has set the tone for future creative exploits as it prepares for professional accreditation and greater visibility within Nigeria’s growing creative industry.
