Why my films are different –Naziru Auwal
Naziru Auwal, popularly known as Naziru Danhajiya, is a Kannywood producer. His movies include ‘Mansoor’, ‘Kar Ki Manta da ni’ and many more. In this interview with Weekend Magazine, he talks about his experience as a producer, and more. Excerpts: I just
Weekend Magazine: How do you view the development of Kannywood so far? Naziru Auwal: I think I can say everything has changed in the film industry. You just need to upgrade to keep pace with the changing times. If you don’t have the necessary knowledge, in the nearest future you will definitely be left behind.
WM: What do you think is the way forward as regards film marketing?
Auwal: We are now in a digital era. Before now, we used to rely solely on CDs. If we had prepared early and made arrangements for the digital market, things would have been better.
The way forward is for us to face the reality and make adjustments. We must change our style by doing anything possible to produce good movies that are captivating. If we do that, we can then show them in cinemas and other digital platforms. We should forget about using CDs.
WM: Do you think showcasing films in cinemas and using other platforms like YouTube
and Netflix will be enough to solve Kannywood’s marketing problems?
Auwal: I think that will not be enough looking at the amount of money needed to produce a good movie. But it will go a long way.
WM: The movies you produce have been described as unique. What do you do differently?
Auwal: I don’t think there is any hidden secret. I just have the urge to produce good and captivating movies. There is also the fact that I read wide, especially pertaining to film making. I also love addressing
social issues in my movies. Many of them are centred on societal problems that bedevils our people, such as ‘Mansoor’, ‘Kar Ki Manta Da Ni’ and many others.
WM: Do you plan to produce movies with Nollywood and other film industries in the world?
Auwal: Yes, of course. I have that plan, and by the special grace of God, I will realize this dream in the future. In fact, this is one of the reasons why I decided to join politics.
WM: Why do you think Kannywood is unable to measure up to Nollywood?
Auwal: If we want to compete with them, then we have to upgrade. We need to keep learning new things and apply that knowledge, especially modern ways of film making.
WM: What project are you working on at the moment?
Auwal: My last project was ‘Kar Ki Manta Da Ni’, which was a huge success. I’m currently working on ‘Jaruma’ which will soon hit the screens. It’s about a lady who stood firm in protecting her nation in a war between two countries. There is one king (a role played by Ali Nuhu) who is dedicated to the welfare of his people, yet those around him are after his throne.