Breaking Into Television Production: A Nigerian Perspective

Last Updated on August 29, 2023

Introduction

Breaking into television production is a challenging but rewarding journey in the entertainment industry.

The Nigerian television industry has seen significant growth and development over the years, offering numerous opportunities for aspiring television producers.

Unveiling the Path to Television Production Success

Ever wondered how to dive into television production? Discover the thrilling world of creating captivating shows.

The Vibrant Canvas of Nigerian Television Industry

1. Dynamic Diversity: Nigeria’s TV scene is a tapestry of languages, cultures, and genres, reflecting its rich diversity.
   
   
2. Growth Spurt: Over the last decade, the Nigerian TV industry has experienced remarkable expansion, attracting global attention.
   
   
3. Nollywood Influence: As an extension of the renowned Nollywood film industry, TV production inherits creative prowess and audience engagement.
   
   
4. Content Appetite: The Nigerian audience has an insatiable appetite for a range of content, from drama and reality to news.
   
   
5. Tech Leap: With technological advancement, production quality has surged, giving rise to visually stunning and technically sound shows.
   
   
6. Emerging Talent: Aspiring producers, actors, and writers have a burgeoning platform to showcase their skills and make a mark.
   
   
7. Challenges and Triumphs: Despite hurdles like funding and piracy, the industry pushes forward, producing remarkable narratives with impact.
   
   
8. Gateway for Youth: Television offers a gateway for young talents to kickstart their careers, contributing to both art and economy.
   
   
9. Global Partnerships: Collaborations with international networks and platforms open doors for exposure beyond national boundaries.
   
   
10. Steps to Success: Breaking in requires a blend of creativity, persistence, networking, and adapting to rapidly changing audience preferences.
    
    
11. Training Grounds: Film schools, workshops, and mentorships provide valuable education, nurturing the next generation of TV creators.

Intriguing Prospects Await

The Nigerian television production landscape invites dreamers and visionaries to shape narratives that resonate across screens and societies.

Understanding the Nigerian Television Industry

Growth and Evolution of the Nigerian Television Industry

• The Nigerian television industry has experienced significant growth and evolution over the years.
  
  
• In the early days, television was dominated by the Nigerian Television Service (NTS).
  
  
• In 1977, NTS was transformed into the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
  
  
• The establishment of NTA marked the beginning of a new era in Nigerian television.
  
  
• NTA played a crucial role in shaping the industry and promoting local programming.
  
  
• As technology advanced, private television stations emerged, leading to increased competition.

Key Players and Major Television Networks in Nigeria

1. Nigerian Television Authority (NTA): NTA is the largest television network in Nigeria. It operates numerous stations across the country and reaches a wide audience.
   
   
2. Channels Television: Channels TV is a privately-owned television station known for its quality news coverage. It has gained popularity for its balanced reporting and extensive coverage of current affairs.
   
   
3. Africa Independent Television (AIT): AIT is another major player in the Nigerian television industry. It offers a variety of programs, including news, entertainment, and documentaries.
   
   
4. Silverbird Television: Silverbird TV is a popular entertainment channel known for its music and lifestyle programs. It also covers live events and promotes Nigerian talent in the entertainment industry.

Unique Characteristics and Challenges of the Nigerian Television Industry

1. Language Diversity: Nigeria has over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own language and culture. This poses a challenge for television producers to cater to diverse audience preferences.
   
   
2. Low Production Budgets: Many Nigerian television productions face budget constraints. This often limits the quality and scope of the content that can be produced.
   
   
3. Piracy: Piracy is a major challenge in the Nigerian television industry. Illegal distribution and reproduction of television shows affect revenue streams and discourage investment.
   
   
4. Infrastructure and Power Supply: Inadequate infrastructure and frequent power outages pose challenges to television production. This affects the overall quality and reliability of television broadcasts.
   
   
5. Lack of Funding and Support: Television production in Nigeria often lacks sufficient funding and government support. This makes it difficult for new talents to break into the industry and limits the growth potential.

Basically, the Nigerian television industry has witnessed significant growth and evolution, with key players like NTA, Channels TV, AIT, and Silverbird TV shaping the landscape.

However, the industry also faces unique challenges such as language diversity, piracy, infrastructure limitations, and lack of funding and support.

Despite these challenges, the Nigerian television industry continues to thrive and provide diverse programming for the Nigerian audience.

Read: Educational Background of Top TV Editors in Nigeria

Qualifications and Skills for Television Production

Essential qualifications and educational background

1. A bachelor’s degree in TV Production, Mass Communication, or a related field is preferred.
   
   
2. Strong communication and presentation skills are essential for effectively working with a production team.
   
   
3. Creativity and the ability to think outside the box are valued in the television production industry.
   
   
4. Knowledge of television production techniques, theories, and practices is necessary.
   
   
5. Familiarity with industry-standard equipment, software, and technology is an advantage.

Technical skills required in television production

1. Camera operation and cinematography play a crucial role in capturing high-quality visuals.
   
   
2. Video editing and post-production skills are necessary to refine and enhance the final product.
   
   
3. Sound design and audio engineering expertise ensure optimal audio quality in television productions.
   
   
4. Proficiency in scriptwriting and storytelling enables the creation of engaging and compelling content.
   
   
5. Knowledge of lighting techniques and set design contributes to creating visually appealing productions.

Importance of gaining practical experience and internships

1. Practical experience in television production helps develop a deeper understanding of the industry.
   
   
2. Participating in internships allows aspiring TV producers to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
   
   
3. Internships provide opportunities to learn from professionals and make valuable industry connections.
   
   
4. Practical experience enhances problem-solving, teamwork, and time management skills.
   
   
5. Internships also demonstrate a candidate’s commitment and dedication to a career in television production.

Generally, a successful career in television production requires a combination of qualifications, technical skills, and practical experience.

Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field provides a solid foundation of knowledge, while strong communication and creative thinking skills are crucial for effective collaboration within a production team.

Technical skills such as camera operation, video editing, sound design, and scriptwriting are essential for producing high-quality television content.

However, gaining practical experience through internships is equally important as it allows individuals to apply their knowledge, learn from industry professionals, and develop crucial skills.

By acquiring the necessary qualifications and skills while gaining hands-on experience, aspiring television producers can increase their chances of breaking into and succeeding in this competitive industry.

Read: Coping with Job Pressure as a TV Reporter in Nigeria

Navigating the Nigerian Television Job Market

Entry-Level Positions and Career Paths in Television Production

• Production Assistant: Assists in various production tasks such as setting up equipment and organizing schedules.
  
  
• Camera Operator: Operates cameras during shoots and ensures high-quality footage.
  
  
• Sound Technician: Handles audio equipment and ensures clear sound recordings.
  
  
• Video Editor: Edits raw footage into a cohesive and visually appealing final product.
  
  
• Production Coordinator: Manages logistics, budgets, and timelines for television productions.

Insights into the Recruitment and Hiring Process

• Resume and Portfolio: Craft a well-designed resume that highlights relevant skills and experiences.
  
  
• Job Applications: Always customize your applications to match the requirements of the specific job.
  
  
• Interview Preparation: Research the company, anticipate common questions, and practice your responses.
  
  
• Show Passion and Enthusiasm: Display genuine excitement for the industry and the specific role you’re applying for.
  
  
• Professional Attire: Dress appropriately for interviews and maintain a polished appearance.

Strategies for Networking and Building Professional Relationships

• Attend Industry Events: Join conferences, workshops, and networking events to meet industry professionals.
  
  
• Utilize Social Media: Connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in industry-related discussions.
  
  
• Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of associations that cater to television production practitioners.
  
  
• Internships and Volunteering: Gain practical experience and make connections by interning or volunteering in production companies.
  
  
• Maintain Relationships: Nurture professional connections by following up, offering assistance, and staying in touch.

The Importance of Creating a Standout Portfolio and Showreel

A portfolio and showreel are essential tools for showcasing your skills and talents in television production.

Here are some tips to create a standout portfolio:

• Select your Best Work: Choose your most impressive projects to include in your portfolio.
  
  
• Highlight Specific Skills: Showcase your expertise in areas such as camera operation, editing, or sound design.
  
  
• Include Variety: Demonstrate your versatility by including samples from different genres and formats.
  
  
• Keep it Short and Engaging: Create a concise showreel that captures the viewer’s attention within the first few seconds.
  
  
• Update Regularly: Continuously add new projects to your portfolio to reflect your growth and recent work.

Essentially, breaking into the Nigerian television production industry requires a combination of relevant skills, networking, and a standout portfolio.

By understanding the entry-level positions, recruitment process, networking strategies, and the importance of a strong portfolio, aspiring television professionals can navigate the job market successfully and increase their chances of securing rewarding careers in the industry.

Read: Understanding the Nigerian Union of TV Reporters

Overcoming Challenges and Obstacles

Address the common challenges faced by aspiring television producers in Nigeria

Television production in Nigeria comes with numerous challenges that aspiring producers often encounter. These challenges can hinder progress and discourage individuals from pursuing their dreams.

However, with determination and the right strategies, these obstacles can be overcome.

One common challenge faced by aspiring television producers in Nigeria is the lack of access to resources and funding.

The television industry requires substantial investments in equipment, sets, and talent.

Without sufficient financial backing, it becomes difficult for individuals to produce high-quality content.

Another challenge is the fierce competition within the industry.

Nigeria has a large pool of talented individuals aspiring to become television producers, resulting in a saturated market.

It becomes imperative to stand out and deliver exceptional content to attract viewers and secure partnerships.

Furthermore, limited exposure and networking opportunities can be a hurdle for aspiring television producers.

Networking plays a crucial role in the industry, as it allows for collaborations and the exchange of ideas.

Without a strong network, individuals may find it challenging to gain recognition and establish connections.

Strategies for overcoming these challenges

1. Leverage social media and online platforms

Aspiring television producers should utilize social media platforms to showcase their work and gain exposure.

Building an online presence enables them to reach a wider audience and potentially attract investors or sponsors.

They can share behind-the-scenes footage, teasers, and promotional materials to generate interest and build a following.

2. Seek mentorship and guidance from industry professionals

Connecting with experienced industry professionals can provide invaluable insights and guidance.

Aspiring producers should actively seek mentorship from established individuals who have navigated similar challenges.

Mentors can offer advice, share their experiences, and provide valuable contacts within the industry, opening doors to opportunities.

3. Continuous learning and skill enhancement

To overcome the challenges of limited resources and funding, aspiring producers should focus on enhancing their skills.

They can enroll in workshops, seminars, and online courses to acquire new knowledge and develop their technical abilities.

By constantly improving and staying updated with industry trends, individuals can differentiate themselves and produce innovative content.

By adopting these strategies, aspiring television producers in Nigeria can overcome the challenges they face and increase their chances of success.

It is essential to remain persistent, network with industry professionals, and continuously develop skills to stand out in the competitive landscape.

In general, breaking into television production in Nigeria can be challenging, but it is not impossible.

Aspiring producers must address common challenges such as limited resources, competition, and networking barriers.

However, by leveraging social media, seeking mentorship, and continuously enhancing skills, individuals can navigate these obstacles and pave their way to a successful television production career.

Read: Salary Expectations for TV Editors in Nigeria

Success Stories from Nigerian Television Industry

Success stories of notable Nigerian television producers

1. Mo Abudu: Founded EbonyLife TV and became the first African woman to own a Pan-African TV channel.
   
   
2. Kunle Afolayan: Known for producing top-rated Nigerian movies and TV shows like “The CEO” and “The Figurine.”
   
   
3. Funke Akindele: Created the highly successful TV series “Jenifa’s Diary” and has won numerous awards for her work.

Factors that contributed to their success

1. Creativity and Innovation: These successful producers took risks and introduced fresh concepts to Nigerian television.
   
   
2. Quality Production: They ensured high production standards, from scriptwriting to cinematography and editing.
   
   
3. Market Understanding: They had a firm grasp of the Nigerian audience’s preferences and created content tailored to their needs.
   
   
4. Networking and Collaboration: They built strong relationships within the industry, collaborating with talented actors, directors, and writers.
   
   
5. Business Acumen: Understanding the financial aspects of television production helped them secure funding and navigate the industry.

Inspiration and motivation for aspiring television producers

1. Embrace your uniqueness: Nigerian television is diverse, so bring your unique perspective and ideas to the table.
   
   
2. Learn from the best: Study successful Nigerian producers, understand their techniques, and adapt them to suit your style.
   
   
3. Develop your skills: Enhance your storytelling abilities, production knowledge, and technical skills through continuous learning.
   
   
4. Build a network: Connect with like-minded individuals in the industry, form collaborations, and share experiences.
   
   
5. Stay committed and persevere: Television production is challenging, but persistence and dedication will lead to success.
   
   
6. Embrace technology: Utilize digital tools and platforms to reach a wider audience and explore new storytelling formats.
   
   
7. Seek mentorship: Find experienced producers who can guide you, offer advice, and help you navigate the industry’s nuances.
   
   
8. Be adaptable: Nigerian television is dynamic, so be open to change, embrace new trends, and experiment with different genres.
   
   
9. Believe in yourself: Have confidence in your abilities, stay passionate about your projects, and never give up on your dreams.
   
   
10. Be patient: Success in television production takes time, so stay focused, learn from setbacks, and keep improving.

In essence, the Nigerian television industry is filled with success stories from notable producers like Mo Abudu, Kunle Afolayan, and Funke Akindele.

Factors such as creativity, quality production, market understanding, networking, and business acumen have contributed to their achievements.

Aspiring television producers should embrace their uniqueness, learn from the best, develop their skills, build a network, stay committed, embrace technology, seek mentorship, be adaptable, believe in themselves, and practice patience.

By following these guidelines, they can pursue their dreams and find success in the Nigerian television industry.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we discussed the main points of breaking into television production in Nigeria.

I encourage readers to pursue their passion in television production and follow their dreams.

For further exploration, here are some additional resources and references:

• “Television Production Handbook” by Herbert Zettl: A comprehensive guide to television production techniques.
  
  
• “The TV Writer’s Workbook” by Ellen Sandler: An informative resource on developing and writing for television.
  
  
• “Nollywood: The Making of a Film Empire” by Emily Witt: A book that explores the Nigerian film and television industry.

Remember, with determination and hard work, you can successfully break into television production in Nigeria. Good luck!