NEMCEA 2024 Spotlights AI and Tech Innovation in Media Industry

The bustling media landscape of Nigeria took center stage last week as industry leaders, content creators, and aspiring professionals gathered for the Nigeria Electronic Media Content Exhibition and Awards (NEMCEA) 2024.

The two-day event, held in Lagos, focused on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in the media industry.

Under the theme “Content Production and Emerging Technology: A Panacea for Growth in the Creative Economy,” NEMCEA 2024 offered a platform for robust discussions on the future of content creation and distribution.

Adeniji Omirin, President of the Electronic Media Content Owners Association of Nigeria (EMCOAN), set the tone in his welcome address by highlighting the organization’s efforts to nurture new talent. “We introduced associate membership at the EMCOAN level to encourage and accommodate new content creators, especially those on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok,” Omirin said.

He also announced the launch of the NEMCEA Creative Academy, aimed at providing practical experience to students in relevant fields.

The event drew high-profile attendees, including former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Muhammad, who underscored the entertainment industry’s significant economic impact. “Entertainment is now the second-largest industry in Nigeria after agriculture,” Muhammad noted, praising the country’s unique contributions to global entertainment.

A highlight of the conference was a presentation by Obi Emelonye, Creative Director of Nollywood Film Factory, who shared his groundbreaking use of AI in filmmaking. “My engagement started last year when I made a film called ‘Out of Breath,'” Emelonye explained. “For the first time, I created a storyboard based on AI using software called Midjourney. It was a revelation.”

Emelonye’s experiences sparked discussions on balancing traditional filmmaking techniques with innovative technologies. Panelists explored topics ranging from augmented reality and virtual reality to high-frame filming and drone cinematography.

The event also addressed the changing media consumption landscape. One of the panelists, the Executive Director of Omnivom Media Group, Yinka Adebayo, emphasized the need for strategic content distribution across multiple platforms. “If content is king, how many have they crowned?” he asked, challenging creators to diversify their output.

For the many students in attendance, industry professionals offered career advice that emphasized skill acquisition over immediate financial gain. “At this point in your life, place more emphasis on getting the necessary skills rather than money,” advised one panelist, encouraging internships and networking.

As NEMCEA 2024 concluded, it was clear that the Nigerian media industry stands at a crossroads of tradition and innovation. The event not only highlighted the sector’s economic potential but also shows the need for content producers to adapt to technological advancements and evolving audience preferences.

With its blend of industry insight, technological showcases, and professional development opportunities, NEMCEA 2024 reaffirmed the dynamism of Nigeria’s creative economy and its readiness to embrace the future of media production.