Classical Studies and the Nigerian Film Industry: Professional Opportunities for Classical Consultancy

Nollywood's growing global reach and the increasing scale of its historical and mythological productions create professional demand for classical expertise in narrative development, set design, and cultural authenticity consultancy that has not yet been systematically developed as a Classical Studies professional pathway. This study explores the professional opportunities for classically trained scholars as consultants to the Nigerian film industry, examining the nature of industry demand, the competencies required, and the institutional frameworks that would support such a professional pathway. A professional inquiry methodology was adopted, combining structured interviews with 20 senior Nollywood producers and directors, twelve classical scholars, and eight film studies academics at Lagos State University and the Nile University of Nigeria. Analysis of Nollywood production processes for films drawing on classical mythological or historical themes provided contextual data. Findings indicate substantial unmet demand among Nollywood producers for classical narrative expertise, particularly for productions engaging ancient African historical settings, mythological epic formats, and political drama inspired by Roman or Greek historical models. Producers currently rely on informal online research, creating inconsistencies in historical and cultural representation. The study proposes a Nigerian Classical Studies Professional Consultancy Scheme, a register of classically qualified consultants available to film producers, supported by a competency certification framework and a standard consultancy contract template. Establishment under the National Film and Video Censors Board is recommended.

Keywords: Classical Studies, Nollywood consultancy, film industry, professional pathway, Nigeria