One of the extra-ordinary initiatives of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, Dr. Oladele Alake in raising awareness is the innovative television series, Hidden Riches.
The TV series “Hidden Riches” is a drama that aims to shed light on the diverse mineral wealth of Nigeria, the efforts of the ministry at rebranding the sector while engaging audiences through compelling storytelling
This work, produced and directed by the legendary Bem Perver, stands as a beacon in the Nigerian film industry. Bem is known for his passion for producing original African stories that delve into the heart of culture, tradition, and identity. As the founder of Take 7 Media, a prominent film and TV production company based in Abuja, Nigeria, Bem has made significant contributions to the industry, shaping narratives and showcasing the rich heritage of African life to both local and global audiences.
We began filming on September 9, this year with a cast and crew that stand at over two hundred. It has moved from location to location using the latest filming technology and high-end locations.
Project Milestones:
The scriptwriting process was successfully completed in August 2024. The final draft was approved, enabling the project to move swiftly into the pre-production phase. The pre-production commenced immediately after script approval and was completed by the end of August 2024. During this phase, casting, location scouting, set design, and logistics were finalized.
Principal photography began in early September 2024 in various locations across Abuja. We are currently on schedule with a dedicated crew of over 67 professionals and a cast of 168 actors. Filming in Abuja is expected to wrap up by 30th October 2024, barring any unforeseen disruptions.
After the Abuja shoot concludes, the team will relocate to a mining site in Kaduna State. Filming in Kaduna is scheduled to commence on 1st to 4th October 2024.
Post-production has already started alongside filming. The team is working diligently to ensure the timely completion of editing, visual effects, and sound design.
We anticipate having the first two episodes fully edited and ready for review by the end of October 2024.
Still ahead are key processes such as Completion of Filming:
The series will finish all principal photography in Abuja by 30th October 2024. Filming in Kaduna will run throughout October, focusing on the mining site for several key scenes.
Post-Production time line efforts will continue, with the goal of completing the entire series within the agreed schedule.
The “Hidden Riches” project is progressing smoothly, with significant strides made in script development, pre- production, and filming. Over one hundred cast and crew are on set daily to deliver this masterpiece.
“The collaboration of the talented cast and crew has been instrumental in ensuring that we stay on track. Even though the production is faced with various challenges, we remain committed to delivering a high-quality, impactful series that will not only entertain but also promote the narion’s solid mineral wealth,” Pever said.
Hidden Riches will make its debut on the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA at 8pm on Sundays next quarter.
Lara Owoeye-wise is the Special Assistant, Broadcast Media to The Minister Of Solid Minerals
Source: ALAKE ON RESCUE MISSION, a publication of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, MoSMD.
