This was said by Sanwo-Olu while attending the Third Nigeria Digital Content Regulation Conference (NDCRC), which is now taking place in Lagos and is being hosted by the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).
The governor stated that Lagos State has developed into a center for talent, creativity, and innovation that draws filmmakers from all over the world. The governor was represented by Mrs. Oloruntoyin Atekoja, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
The dynamic Nigerian film business, popularly referred to as Nollywood, has captured the attention of domestic and global viewers alike, securing its standing as the second-biggest film industry globally.
"The development of Lagos State's film industry has greatly boosted our economy in addition to adding a great deal of cultural and entertainment value.
It has given actors, producers, directors, technicians, and many other people involved in the filmmaking process a plethora of direct and indirect career options.
Additionally, it has increased tourism since people are coming to our state from all over to see the diversity and enchantment depicted on the big screen.
But much as we celebrate our successes, we also have to face a critical issue: the requirement for international rules to control digital content.
"It is imperative that we establish guidelines that ensure the quality, safety, and ethical standards of digital media in this era of digitalization, where content can be easily accessed and shared across borders," stated Sanwo-Olu.
The governor stated that there were a number of issues with the lack of international standards and that it was now difficult to defend the intellectual property rights of the country's filmmakers.
He contends that in the absence of appropriate laws, practitioners' work may be violated, resulting in monetary losses and discouraging the development of new creative abilities.
Furthermore, a lack of standards might lead to an increase in low-quality and pirated content, which would be detrimental to our industry's reputation as well as our filmmakers' ability to make a living.
Concerns concerning the influence on our cultural values and societal norms are also raised by the absence of international guidelines for controlling digital content.
"It is crucial to make sure that content respects cultural variety and sensitivities as it crosses international borders.
"The lack of guidelines may result in the dissemination of content that is offensive, inappropriate, or detrimental to specific communities," the speaker stated.
He claims that cooperation amongst all parties involved is now essential to addressing these issues, not just at the state or federal levels but also on an international one.
"We ought to work together with other countries, business leaders, and government agencies to create a structure that encourages the production, sharing, and consumption of responsible material.
Age limitations, cultural sensitivity, content quality standards, and intellectual property protection policies should all be included in this framework.
"It should also incorporate effective enforcement mechanisms and international collaboration to counteract copyright violations and piracy."
On the other hand, Sanwo-Olu pledged to help the country's film sector expand.
He exhorted the industry to maintain the greatest levels of originality, morality, and cultural awareness.
"I call upon all stakeholders—filmmakers, trade associations, government agencies, and international partners—to collaborate with us in creating international guidelines governing digital content," he declared.
Let's work together to uphold the cultural fiber of our community, support top-notch material, and safeguard the intellectual property of our filmmakers.
"By doing this, we can open the door for a flourishing and well-respected film industry that inspires and unites people from all walks of life in addition to providing entertainment."
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) Director-General, Malam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stated in his message of goodwill that the idea of orienting Nigerians on a true value system was fundamentally dependent on the creative industry.
"I can't think of any other influencer than this industry," Onilu remarked.
"I view the people working in this industry as my main stakeholders because without them, we cannot accomplish the goals established by NOA.
"We need to shape the national psyche of our people. To present the greatest possible picture of Nigeria, those working in this field need to be aware of the values that the country upholds in all scripts and content.
Speaking at the event was Prof. Abba Tijani, Director-General of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, who emphasized that the creative sector continues to play a leading role in shaping the cultural identity of the country.
Because these identities are reflected in our arts, culture, traditions, and value system, we have a lot to say about our identity and culture. Tijani stated, "We have to embrace our artifacts and visit museums."
Prof. Sunday Ododo, General Manager of National Theatre, made a statement and challenged all parties involved to provide content that would make Nigeria a place that everyone could be proud of.
Several seasoned professionals from the creative and film industries attended the conference, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).