“We’re in a space where learning, relearning, and unlearning isn’t optional—it’s necessary,”writes Blessing Ogre, speaking with the clarity of someone who doesn’t just move with the times, but helps shape them. As the Distribution Head for Digital & Ancillary at Nile Entertainment, she operates at the cutting edge of where films go after the credits roll—across platforms, across audiences, across borders.
With a background in sales, project management, and film marketing, Blessing brings a hybrid mindset to the distribution table: one part strategist, one-part creative problem-solver. Whether it’s negotiating with platforms, exploring licensing opportunities, or rethinking how Nigerian stories show up digitally, her work helps Nollywood expand its revenue streams and deepen its global reach.
In this edition of Industry Voices, she shares her thoughts on the fast-changing world of digital distribution, the importance of flexibility in leadership, and how she’s helping build a future where every film gets more than just a moment—it gets a legacy.
What led you to film distribution, and what keeps you here?
You know, it wasn’t exactly a straight line. I’ve always loved films and the magic of cinema. But
getting into the business side of it? That was more of a “destiny finds you” kind of thing. I started seeing how many amazing films weren’t reaching their potential, and I felt like I could make a difference.What keeps me here? Honestly, it’s the thrill of connecting a great film with its audience. Seeing a filmmaker’s vision come to life and knowing you played a part in that? That’s golden. Plus, Nollywood is just… electric. You never know what’s coming next, and that’s exciting. Your role blends business, project management, and creative thinking.
How do you approach a new film’s digital rollout with all that in mind?
It’s a proper juggling act, isn’t it? First, the business side – you have to know your numbers, your platforms, your target audience. Then, project management kicks in – timelines, budgets, coordination. But the creative thinking? That’s where the magic happens.
I’m always asking, “How can we make this stand out? What’s the unique angle?” It’s about
finding that sweet spot where the business sense meets the artistic vision, and then translating that into a campaign that resonates. You need to understand the film, understand the audience, and then find the best way to bring them together.
How do you identify opportunities for a film beyond traditional channels?
You have to have your eyes and ears open, that’s for sure. The digital space is constantly
changing. Sometimes it’s about partnering with the right people, exploring niche platforms, or
creating interactive content.You really have to look at the film and think, “Who would love this, and where are they hanging out online?” It’s about thinking outside the box and not being afraid to try new things. And sometimes, you just have to listen to your gut.
Can you walk us through a campaign or digital release you worked on that felt like a
breakthrough moment?
One of the campaigns that felt like a breakthrough moment for me was the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever campaign. I handled the account at the time and seeing all the hard work we put into that release pay off—especially when it hit the first 1 billion at the West African box office—made it all worthwhile.
What do you think filmmakers and producers often misunderstand about the digital distribution space?
A lot of people still think it’s just about uploading a file and hoping for the best—or making a film and assuming Netflix or Prime Video will come calling with a big check. They don’t realize it’s a whole different ball game.
It’s about building a community, engaging with your audience, understanding algorithms, and
using data to make informed decisions. It’s not just about the film itself—it’s about the whole
experience. And it means investing time and sometimes money into the digital campaign, just like you would for a cinema release.
What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for success in digital film distribution?
You’ve got to be adaptable—that’s number one. Things change so quickly in the digital world,
and you need to be able to pivot. Communication is key: being able to explain complex concepts in a way everyone understands. You also need to be a bit of a data geek. Being able to analyze numbers and spot trends is crucial. And most importantly, you need to be passionate about film, and about connecting with people.
What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned in this space?
That collaboration is key. You can’t do it all yourself. You need to build a team of talented
people, and you need to trust them. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued and heard. And sometimes, you have to admit you don’t have all the answers. Being open to
learning from others is a sign of strength, not weakness.
What excites you most about the future of digital distribution in Nollywood?
The possibilities are endless! We’re seeing more and more filmmakers experimenting with
different formats and platforms. We’re reaching audiences we never could have reached
before. With the rise of streaming and mobile, Nollywood is becoming a global force. I’m excited to see how we can leverage technology to tell our stories in new and innovative ways, and to bring our
films to the world.
You’re a woman in an executive role in a fast-evolving space. How has that shaped your approach, and what advice would you give to women entering the film business side of Nollywood?
Being a woman in this space, you learn to be resilient—that’s for sure. You have to be confident in your abilities, and you have to be willing to speak up. I think it’s also given me a more collaborative approach. I believe in building strong relationships and creating a supportive environment. My advice to other women? Don’t be afraid to take risks. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it. Find your voice, build your network, and never stop learning. Your perspective is valuable. Nollywood needs your unique voice.
This interview is part of Industry Voices — Nollypedia’s spotlight on the minds shaping the art and business of Nigerian cinema.
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