He insists that film should not just prioritise commercial success but also authentically reflect Ghanaian values and heritage.

Recognised for works including ‘The Second Coming of Nkrumah’ and ‘Ghana Must Go’, Abubakar told Graphic Showbiz in a recent interview,  “We have a wealth of untapped stories rooted in our traditions, from Northern Ghana's rites of passage to vibrant regional festivals. Imagine the visual richness and educational value these narratives could bring. They resonate not just with Ghana, but with universal themes of humanity and pride,” he stated.

He said embracing Ghana’s culture in films could retain and even enhance entertainment value. “Well-crafted cultural narratives can achieve commercial success while making a social impact”, he stated.

“It’s time we stopped treating culture as an afterthought in filmmaking. The global audience is craving authentic African stories. Why should Nigeria or South Africa lead the charge when Ghana has equally compelling narratives? It starts with us, with our storytellers making a deliberate shift,” he stressed.

Abubakar also highlighted the importance of collaboration among filmmakers. He advocates for teamwork and shared resources over competition, believing this will uplift the industry. (Read I choose talent over new faces when casting – Shirley Frimpong-Manso)

“Collaboration is strength, not weakness. When creatives unite, we achieve more—whether pooling technical skills, expanding audiences or attracting funding. A competitive mindset is what holds many back,” he advised.

He called on stakeholders, including the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, to support initiatives that promote storytelling focused on Ghanaian heritage. 

With the right backing and a unified vision, he believes Ghana’s film industry can become a global reference for authentic African storytelling. Abubakar also encouraged emerging filmmakers to be intentional about their craft and take pride in their roots.

The playwright further called on stakeholders, including the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, to support initiatives that promoted storytelling centred on Ghanaian heritage. 

He expressed confidence that, with proper backing and a unified vision, Ghana’s film industry could become a global reference point for authentic African storytelling.

He similarly urged emerging filmmakers to be intentional with their craft and take pride in their roots, noting that the next generation deserved to see their heritage celebrated and preserved through the lens of film.