Dr. Ore-Ofe Williams, pioneer Provost of TAMPAN Academy—the Film and Music Institute of the Theatre Arts and Motion-Pictures Producers’ Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN)—has shared insights into the challenges and goals of the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Vision and Inspiration
TAMPAN Academy aims to develop leaders, instill ethical values, teach technical skills, and nurture strong character in students. Dr. Williams explained that the academy’s founding body recognized the need for deliberate knowledge transfer to ensure the industry’s sustainability. With guidance from seasoned leaders such as President Otunba Bolaji Amusan (JP) and the Board of Trustees led by Dr. Adebayo Salami and Prince Jide Kosoko, TAMPAN Academy leverages decades of collective experience to mentor the next generation.

Career Beginnings and Education in Nollywood
Dr. Williams began her career at Ogun State University under the mentorship of the late Chief Hubert Ogunde. Addressing misconceptions about Yoruba Nollywood actors, she emphasized that formal education alone does not define knowledge. Exposure, experience, and mastery of craft are equally important, citing veterans like Femi Adebayo and Odunlade Adekola as examples of well-educated professionals, regardless of formal academic qualifications.

Achievements at TAMPAN Academy
Since its inception, TAMPAN Academy has achieved significant milestones. The academy received a building in Bodija, offers scholarships to students, and has established campuses across the South-West, with plans to expand to Abuja and Port Harcourt. Dr. Williams noted that the academy operates independently and is fully registered as a Limited Liability Company.

Although not a TAMPAN member, Dr. Williams was appointed pioneer Provost due to her close ties to the organization and her availability, as many qualified individuals were occupied with academic commitments elsewhere.

The City of Talents
Dr. Williams also leads The City of Talents, founded in 2009. The initiative includes a Mentorship Estate, a Film & Music Academy, a Film Studio, and a Film Village. Through this program, she has mentored thousands of youths, providing scholarships, shelter, and guidance. Many of her mentees have gone on to achieve significant professional success in various fields, both in Nigeria and internationally.

Philosophy and Advice to Filmmakers
Dr. Williams stressed the importance of building people and sustaining legacies. She encouraged filmmakers to mentor younger talents rather than focusing on social media fame, noting that lasting impact is measured by the generations one nurtures.

Current Projects and Academy Programs
She is currently working on Dinner at 3AM, involving numerous Nollywood veterans. TAMPAN Academy offers workshops, basic certificates, advanced certificates, diplomas, e-classes, and postgraduate programs, accommodating students locally and internationally. The academy’s maiden convocation promises to be one of the largest events of its kind in Nigeria.

Dr. Williams highlighted that graduates of TAMPAN Academy are products of industry giants like Jide Kosoko, Otunba Adebayo Salami, Bolaji Amusan, and Dele Odule. The institution remains committed to producing skilled, ethical, and well-rounded professionals who will drive Nollywood forward.