How dgn came to be

The Directors’ Guild of Nigeria is proud of its uncommon origins. Two filmmakers banded together despite unrelated circumstances because they were concerned with the unprofessional treatment of directors in the newly burgeoning Nollywood. These men—who became known as The Six Angry Men—were irritated by a variety of practices, including copyright violations, minimal remuneration, insufficient support, and incorrect crediting.

In June 1999, a town hall industry meeting was called, and every department of the industry was tasked with appointing their representatives to speak on disturbing issues affecting the industry and work ethics. The directors selected Mr. Madu Chikwendu and Amb Dr. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, who both wrote a paper on behalf of the directors, and Mr. Chikwendu presented, with an open-ended famous poser by Amb Lancelot, “Is everyone who stands behind the camera and screams action a director?”

Following the conference, the desire and necessity for an association of directors arose, even though a majority of practicing directors saw no need for an association. They became three directors at the association’s inaugural meeting, which took place in July 1999 at Mr. Fidelis Duker’s office on Karimu Street in Lawanson, Lagos.

An official circular was sent, inviting all practicing directors to the next meeting at Mofoluku, Oshodi, Lagos. On August 7, 1999, only Chief Jeff V. Obahor, Dr. Victor Okhai, and Elder Sam Azubuike were present.

Eventually, a resolution was reached, DGN was formed, and they were named founding members of the Directors Guild of Nigeria. The Six Angry Men are Mr. Madu Chikwendu, Amb. Dr. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, Mr. Fidelis Duker, Dr. Victor Okhai, Chief Jeff V. Obahor, and Elder Sam Azubuike. Mr. Matthias Obahiagbon was later invited and appointed the guild’s inaugural president. Today, DGN celebrates its 25th anniversary!