United States Consulate and Polish Embassy in Lagos have expressed readiness to support Nigeria’s Nollywood industry, according to the President, Eko International Film Festival, Mr Hope Opara.

Opara told newsmen in Lagos on Thursday that they were ready collaborate with the relevant bodies in the country to promote Nollywood as well as Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and tourism.

According to him, such collaborations will help to develop and promote Nigerian films locally and internationally.

“It is important that we know that every film depicts a synopsis of what must have happened in certain areas.

“When you watch films from other countries you are already stepping into their culture and traditions and the same thing applies when people from other climes watch Nollywood films in their countries,’’ he said.

Opara said there was also a growing interest from Israel, France and India in working with the Nollywood industry in promoting film exchanges.

He said this year’s Eko International Film Festival had received and featured many films from the United States, Poland, India, Israel and France that depicted things about their countries.

On the state of the industry, Opara said the industry deserved more attention and support from the Federal Government than it was currently enjoying.

“Governments (state and federal) are currently not doing enough in supporting and promoting Nollywood films abroad.

“Government needs to know that Nollywood is contributing to Nigeria’s economy apart from providing jobs for youths.

“We need to see film as an instrument for promoting cultural exchanges and tourism across the world.’’