In the evolving landscape of Nollywood, one name that continues to echo across Akwa Ibom and beyond is Moses Eskor — filmmaker, actor, producer, and talent mentor. Known for his deep cultural storytelling and passion for developing young creatives, Eskor has spent more than two decades using film as both a mirror and a megaphone for his people.
Early Life and Education
Born in the late 1970s in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Moses Eskor grew up in Calabar, Cross River State. His early education took him through the University Staff School, Calabar, and Government Technical College, Ikot Akata, before earning a National Certificate in Education (NCE) from the College of Education, Akamkpa.
A lover of both arts and academics, Eskor later bagged a degree in Music from the University of Uyo, and went on to obtain professional training in Cinematography and Television Production at the NTA Television College, Jos. This combination of music and visual storytelling became the bedrock of his creative career.
From Music and Politics to Filmmaking
Before embracing filmmaking fully, Eskor was active in music, performing with bands such as New Waves and Navigators. His passion for leadership briefly drew him into politics — he once contested for Vice Chairman of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area under the Action for Democracy (AD) in 1999 and participated in political activities under the PDP in 2003.
But it was in the world of cinema that he found his true calling. “I am not primarily an actor,” he once said. “Acting came like a passion, but directing is where I belong.”
The Rise of a Filmmaker
Eskor’s early work in movies like Ama Unam, Iso Jehova, and Akpan Ekwong established his footprint in the Akwa Ibom movie industry. His reputation grew further as he began directing and producing films that blended local storytelling with universal human themes.
He has been credited with pushing the boundaries of local content, encouraging films to be told in indigenous languages while maintaining high production standards.
Creative Media Arts Academy
A major part of Eskor’s legacy is his commitment to nurturing new talent. He is the founder of Creative Media Arts Academy, one of Akwa Ibom’s first privately owned film schools. The institution trains students in acting, directing, cinematography, editing, makeup, production management, and scriptwriting, among other fields.
Through this academy, Eskor has mentored dozens of actors and filmmakers who are now active in Nollywood and across Africa.
Public Service and Industry Leadership
Beyond filmmaking, Eskor currently serves as Special Assistant on Entertainment to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. He also holds the position of Chairman of the Akwa-Cross Chapter of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), a body that represents the interests of film directors in the region.
In these roles, he has advocated for better funding, training opportunities, and stronger institutional support for the entertainment industry in Akwa Ibom.
Controversies and Public Reactions
Like many public figures, Moses Eskor has had his share of controversies. In 2024, he faced criticism over his involvement in the burial arrangements of Abigail Frederick, a make-up artist who died in a boat accident alongside actor Junior Pope. The burial sparked debate on social media over transparency and cultural sensitivity.
He was also involved in addressing the 2025 arrest of 46 actors during a film shoot in Uyo, when police mistook a movie protest scene for a real demonstration. As SA on Entertainment, Eskor reportedly intervened to secure their release.
His outspoken personality has also drawn attention. In a viral 2024 post, he wrote:
“Not all women go down during heartbreaks… some gather their hearts and build skyscrapers from what is left.”
The statement, referencing actress May Yul Edochie, stirred mixed reactions online but underscored his knack for thought-provoking commentary.
Philosophy and Vision
For Eskor, filmmaking is more than entertainment; it is a means of preserving identity and inspiring social growth. He believes in telling stories “in the language of the people” and insists that “true cinema must reflect the realities and beauty of its roots.”
He often describes himself as “a pencil in God’s hands” — emphasizing humility and purpose in his creative journey.
Challenges and Future Goals
Despite his successes, Eskor remains vocal about the challenges facing the Nigerian film industry — from low budgets and inadequate equipment to a lack of government investment in training and distribution.
He has expressed interest in pursuing further studies abroad to deepen his technical knowledge and bring improved standards back home. His ongoing projects aim to raise the bar for Akwa Ibom filmmaking and promote the state as a creative hub in Nigeria.
Filmography Highlights
- Akpan Ekwong (Director/Producer)
- Ama Unam (Actor)
- Iso Jehova (Actor)
- Broken Scepter (2019) – Role: Ito
- 1929: Women War (2019) – Role: Okon
- Jabalata (2022) – Role: Oku King
Legacy
Moses Eskor’s name is now synonymous with innovation, resilience, and advocacy for indigenous film. To many young creatives, he represents proof that homegrown talent can thrive without losing touch with cultural identity.
As he continues to straddle the worlds of art, mentorship, and public service, one thing is certain — Moses Eskor remains one of Akwa Ibom’s most influential cultural figures.
Pull Quotes for Layout:
- “I see my role not just in making films, but in discovering talents.”
- “Not all women go down during heartbreaks… some build skyscrapers from what is left.”
- “True cinema must reflect the realities and beauty of its roots.”
Chief Edet Isong, Publisher