Fidelis Duker Reps bid gains attention as the veteran filmmaker joins the 2027 race under the Nigeria Democratic Congress

Renowned filmmaker, broadcaster, and media entrepreneur Fidelis Duker has formally entered the political arena after picking up his Expression of Interest Form to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency under the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

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The Henshaw Town-born creative industry veteran is widely regarded as one of the longstanding figures in Nollywood and African filmmaking.

With a career spanning over three decades, Duker began his media journey writing dramas for the Nigerian Television Authority before growing into one of the industry’s notable institution builders.

He is best known as the founder of the Abuja International Film Festival, one of West Africa’s most respected film festivals, which has helped project African cinema to global audiences for more than two decades.

As CEO of FAD Media Productions Ltd, Duker oversees media platforms including FAD 93.1 FM Calabar, FAD FM Abuja, and FAD 360 TV, while also contributing significantly to film production, youth employment, and media development.

He previously served as President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria and currently holds the position of Regional Secretary General of the Federation of Pan African Filmmakers.

Announcing his aspiration, Duker said his constituency has suffered from a lack of “structured, globally competitive representation,” adding that he intends to deploy his international networks and development experience toward youth empowerment, investment attraction, transparency, and economic growth.

His entry into politics reflects a growing trend of accomplished professionals from Nigeria’s creative and private sectors seeking direct involvement in governance ahead of the 2027 elections.

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For Duker, a man long associated with shaping narratives through film and media, the next chapter may now be about shaping policy and representation for his people.