The plight of Returnees from Ukraine initiated concern for their well-being from Project Victory Call Initiative, A.K.A PVC Naija.

PVC Naija is a non-Government organisation, majoring in advocacy and civic education, but with a focus and track record of intervention and projects on citizens' well-being.

The President of the organization Dr Bolaji O. Akinyemi said the initiative became necessary because of the encouragement it received from Nigerians in Diaspora as well as Honourable Abike Dabiri Erewa, who has left no stone unturned in the efforts of NIDCOM to see that the Returnees, mostly students are well looked after in addition to offering psychological evaluation for their general well-being.

Honourable Abike Dabiri Erewa, in her response to the gesture of PVC Naija said, our students have been exposed to the adverse effects of war and its consequences.

This for us is an EMERGENCY and we are prepared for any collaboration that will help us achieve this.

PVC Naija must be commended for initiating this and for coordinating interested bodies of Counselors and Psychiatrists for us at Nigeria in Diaspora Commission to enable the Ukraine returnees to have access to trauma investigations, treatment or therapy as their needs may require.

Parents of concerned students and the students themselves should therefore note that a series of clinics will be conducted on a geo-political region arrangement. The first however will hold in Abuja.

Date: 7th and 8th of April 2022.

Time: 9AM - 5PM

Venue: Women Development Center, CBD, Abuja.

An appointment for the clinic for those concerned is confirmed by filling out the instrument of investigation form, which is available on the NIDCOM site.

The credit for the success of this project must include the following offices and persons: The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lawal Suleman Bilbis, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto and The Chief Medical Director, Professor Anas Sabir, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, without whose cooperation it would have been impossible to have the following doctors to conduct *this all-important clinic. The team* of experts comprises:

1. Dr Abdulsalam, Halimatu Sa'adiya

2. Dr Mustapha Ahmad

3. Dr Attahiru Abusufyan

4. Prof. Mufutau Yunusa.

These Doctors we must greatly appreciate for volunteering their professional services for free.

Signed

Paula Bell-Gam

Vice President, PVC Naija

A non-denominational Christian body, Voice Of His Word Ministry, has charged Nigerian Christians to do more than just praying in churches for the country, but to participate in building the country and making it great.

This charge was given by the body on Monday, when they held a press conference in Lagos, to create awareness for their forthcoming sensitization programme, the Apostolic Round Table, themed 'Green Shift'.

Speaking to reporters, the convener of the event, Dr Bolaji Akinyemi, explained why he took it upon himself to organize such an important program, especially at this period when Nigeria is going through challenging times.

"As a concerned Nigerian and Christian, I am worried about the direction the country is going. That is why my team and I are organizing a sensitization programme to explain to Nigerians and Christians, why they need to do more to contribute to the growth of the country. This is the third time we will be organizing a thing like this, and all we just want is for people to know how important they are to nation-building. We have great speakers coming to talk that day. And we are sure Nigerians will benefit from this." He began.

Great nations are birthed through ideas and are consequently transformed into them through policies and pursuit, Akinyemi said. "If you look at Dubai today, you will think they just blossomed! No, they had planned several years ago to get them to where they are currently. Nigeria should emulate Dubai, we can start by putting in place, an 100 years plan, that is how we wish the country to be in 100 years' time." He concluded.

This year's edition according to the organizers, will feature award ceremonies and an award will be given to the Governor of Gombe state, for his amorous relationship with Christians and for how he has administered the affairs of Gombe state.

The event, which is not sponsored by any politician or political body, is scheduled to hold on Thursday, at the Neca House Auditorium, by African shrine, Hakem Balogun Way, CBD Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

Among those expected to talk at the Apostolic Round Table, are Dr Bolaji O. Akinyemi, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Precious Chikwendu, Olusegun Osilowo, amongst others. ART Conference the year will be chaired by Amb. Steven Baba Bangoji, BOT Chairman, Southern Kaduna People's Union who is also the President of Congress of Northern Nigeria Christians.

Culled from the Vanguard.

By Chris Iheuwa

I had registered for one of the foremost film festivals in Africa, African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) to celebrate its 10th year festival anniversary, and was glad to receive a 'Special Invitation' to see the festival closing film, 'Collision Course,' directed by a lawyer turned theatre and movie guru, Bolanle Austen-Peters (BAP), and produced by Joseph Umoibom and James Amuta at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos state.

A fairly obese, pretentious, yet stern-looking gatekeeper forcibly halted me at the entrance. Even his white 'buba and sokoto' didn't do justice to his serious and uncompromising attempt, notably in the assertion of power and execution of discipline, nor his impression of carrying with his commands of 'No IV, No Entry.'

I normally wouldn't have batted an eyelid, but I witnessed three or more individuals waltzed in as if they owned the place, or even the event, rather than Chioma Ude, the convener, and he made no attempt to stop them. I had no understanding why this had occurred. I certainly didn't find it amusing. He finally let me in after insisting that he must vet my IV, which he reluctantly did.

However, as Yoruba would say, "kim fi oruko bo la siri." I shall keep his identity secured to avoid embarrassing him. We sat down, and the ever-delectable Lala Akindoju got things started by announcing the standard housekeeping rules. Soon later, she introduced the lovely BAP as one of her close friends and coworkers. BAP, dressed in a red dress and a well-groomed hairstyle, gave us a rundown of what to expect and kindly advised us to relax and enjoy ourselves on the unexpected.

After a few seconds of technical difficulties, the movie began. I have to admit that I am a little biased when it comes to the film 'Collision Course,' because it touched two nerves in me that caused me to become really agitated. First and foremost, I am a professionally trained actor/director, as well as a trained Supernumerary Police Officer- ‘you gerrit, if you don't gerrit, forget about it. So the presentation was anticipated, but in all honesty, it was the anticipation of what our sister lawyer turned movie director had to offer. No pun intended.

Collision Course was inspired by the #Endsars demonstration on October 20, 2020, which shook the Nigerian fabric. The purpose of the protest was to petition the authorities about alleged heinous crimes and extrajudicial killings perpetrated by the Special Anti Robbery Squad, (SARS), a unit of the Nigerian Police in charge of detecting, investigating, stopping, and stamping out armed robbery and related crimes.

The movie has a main plot and several subplots that intertwine to give us a potpourri or variants of life. The rich and the poor, the Government Reserved and Respected Area, and The Government Rejected Area, conflict of privileged parents and the perpetual war with their misunderstood children, The Government and the governed, and of course, the Police and the civilian populace as personified by Corporal Magnus and Mide Johnson played by Daniel Etim Effiong, who played the role of the overseas trained Lawyer turned struggling musician and his insecure wife wannabe pregnant girlfriend Hannah played by Big Brothers’ Bamike 'BamBam’ Adenibuyon.

Temi had an encounter with TARS men (for the purposes of the film, SARS was renamed TARS) that left a perpetual scar on him and affect his respect for the men in black. He had seen firsthand how extrajudicial killings are carried out and how innocent individuals are literarily wasted for failing to pay their way out of the clutches of TARS troops who had scented and tasted blood.

This occurrence served as a preface to the film, and it is from this prelude that the rest of the film takes shape. The film begins with the beautiful Chioma Akpotha, who plays Corporal Magnus' wife, played by Kelechi Udegbe (in case you didn't know, Udegbe means "sound of a gun" in Igbo) scolding her husband for not taking care of the family and threatening to leave her matrimonial home for her father's home with her children. He assures her that he will join TARS and make money, but his wife mocks him, claiming that he is lily-livered and incapable of killing a cockroach.

Now, what I like about the opening sequence, which was relatively captured by the writer James Amuta, and executed by the director, is the reality that stares us in the face, and just like the actors portrayed, the Police, who are grossly underfunded and poorly cared for, their remuneration is not in the least commensurate with the reality on the ground. I'll leave what I don't like for now till later, please excuse my grammar.

Corporal Magnus rides to work on a bike that was seized and was in the possession of a colleague who, as another rank police officer, is also dealing with challenges. They bemoan the occupational hazards they face, and their conversation leads to Magnus deciding to visit the TARS Commander, played by Greg Ojefua.

The Commander, or BOSS, as he prefers to be referred, is a quintessential example of a bad apple in any organization, be it police, military, or civil service, not to mention the private sector. A case of utilising what you have to get what you need, no matter whose ox is gored. The Boss informs him that his application to be transferred to TARS is complete, but that in order to demonstrate his commitment to the system, his (Magnus) wife must come to collect the transfer signal from the Boss. Of course, that gesture will have far-reaching repercussions for everyone involved.

While at work, Corporal Magnus receives a call from his wife informing him that she has carried out her threat of moving out of their matrimonial home and into her parents' home. This piece of news has a negative impact on Corporal Magnus as he begins to forcefully collect stipends from motorists, an act that, prior to receiving the phone call, was a case of the motorists not being corporative or generous in his opinion.

One of the few cars he stopped for the usual was sadly driven by Johnson, who was already upset over being cheated by a club manager who didn't think he had what it took to be a trendy and youth-centric dance floor musical artist, his father for not understanding his passion lies in music and not law practises, and of course, the ever reoccurring image of the executed civilians by the lagoon by TARS team members.
The double-nuzzled shotgun was sure to go off, shattering the delicate and glass-like stillness in numerous directions.

Refusing to pay the 'bribe,' Johnson asks his girlfriend and their friend to drive him home in a hired taxi while he is held hostage on a drive. It is during this forced drive that the Policeman and Civilian realise that they are both victims of bad society, a society where the upper echelon of society cares less about the less fortunate part of society, a society where a Policeman has no insurance and must pay for his own injuries. It is spent before it reaches the beneficiary's account, resulting in a disastrous society in which 10% of the population controls 90% of the Commonwealth of a people. The relative serenity and some worth friendly resolution are shattered by the thunderous sound of a recoiled chamber and the wayward life arm that has left its now revolving shell casing into Johnson's torso.

In a panic, Corporal Magnus calls The Boss, who sets up an armed robbery with a gun gone the wrong scenario, while Bambam, who is pregnant, reports to the DPO, played by Norbert Young, with her friend Nneka, played by Ade Laoye. The DPO dispatches his officers to the crime scene, where Corporal Magnus is caught.

Without a doubt, this is a sad tale, but it is a glance into the ever-revolving black door that exposes and reveals the unfortunate situations and occurring that abound in our society and beyond.

A year or so ago, George Floyd was murdered primarily because of the colour of his skin, an Indian Hindu family was apprehended in England for masterminding the gruesome murder of their only daughter because she wanted to marry someone who was not acceptable to their family, and xenophobic attacks in South Africa are still fresh in our minds. Unfortunately, it is the culture in which we live, and every society has its peculiarities.

I must applaud Austen-Peters for broadening the scope of the topic of police brutality. Several shows and films would linger on how the police did this or that without delving into the causes of such acts, yet we cannot state that underfunding is an excuse for such behaviour.
We can't stress the importance of police welfare enough. These men and women have needs, as well as families and homes to care for. The government must ensure that an enabling environment and tools of service are readily available and not out of reach of non-gazetted personnel; and those non-commissioned officers are not forced to sit and watch junior colleagues with similar attributes, qualifications, and pieces of training climb the promotion ladder at their expense.

Before I start sounding like an armchair critic, let me say that I admire and applaud the casting. Kelechi Udegbe's portrayal of the role was right on, and it's no surprise that he carted home the festival's most coveted prize, 'Best Male Actor.' Aside from the casting, accolades should also be given to the location manager, technical team, and set and property crew.

Even though the sound wasn't emanating from there, I didn't have to squint or get close to the cyclorama to hear the voices. The camera work was likewise excellent, and I must pay shining respect to BAP for these aspects. My concern, on the other hand, is with two units: the Costume and Continuity departments. When commencing on a project of this magnitude, it is necessary that each unit conduct a thorough study in their respective departments.

The Police Uniforms were woefully insufficient in terms of form, presentation, and appearance. If we had chosen to wear any adornment instead of the eagle, elephant, and two crossed batons, I could have missed the severe error. But, despite the fact that this is a creative process, as Aristotle stated, "Art is a Collaborative process," the elephant, eagle, and two crossed batons are the symbol of the Nigerian Police.

The DPO's uniform, worn by Norbert Young, should have been tucked in because it lacked the two bottom pockets. Magnus should have only two buttons on his shirt as a Corporal, and his name and file number should be plainly written on his clothing. All military and paramilitary crests or cap badges are worn to the left in Nigeria, with the cap twisted to the right. Any non-civilian personnel seeing Corporal Magnus wearing the cap bent to the left will have a fit, just like I did. I suppose the message is clear: his handling of the firearm, indeed the handling of the rifle by all those involved reeked of ignorance.

BamBam's seat belt was frequently off and on during their journey from the Island to the Mainland, which the script supervisor/editor should have seen. This should be double-checked because such a glaring continuity issue in such a big movie was embarrassing.
Yes, before I forget, newly deceased bodies tend to sink and only rise once rigour Mortis sets in and the major stage of internal organ and tissue breakdown begins. Police officers and medical pathologists should be contacted before proceeding with any police-related endeavour; I didn't even see a Nigerian flag.

Bimbo Manuel, Kenneth Okonkwo, and other actors who demonstrated genius must be mentioned and commended. Thank you, BAP, for a worthwhile piece of work; I greatly enjoyed myself and look forward to knocking on your door again in future to see another masterpiece. Eku ise oooooh.

Chris Iheuwa writes from Lagos.

After months of filming and distributing attention-grabbing teasers on social media, Nollywood director and filmmaker Cyril Odenigbo, the CEO and Creative Director of Magnus Film Academy, will finally premiere his much-anticipated film, 'Break the Blade,' on Sunday, October 17th, 2021.

On social media and in the entertainment sector, there are ongoing hypes and promotions. Several actors, including Yul Edochie, Mike Ezuruonye, Chizzy Alichi, Junior Pope, Adaeze Eluke, Jibola Dabo, Klint the Drunk, and Clemson Cornel, are directing their fans and followers to this premiere via extensive social media campaigns.

‘Break the Blade’ (BTB), a one hour, thirty minutes suspense-filled African film is a revolutionary cinema feature African film shot in 4.6k resolution for the big screen to tell the untold story of female genital mutilation traditions in Nigeria. The main goal of this historical film, which was co-produced by Magnus Film Academy and Ten Pounds Studio, is to raise awareness about female genital mutilation in African civilization. The private screening of the film, which took place in June 2021, drew the attention of various NGOs and individuals involved in anti-female genital mutilation campaigns.

"The film, which stars Jibola Dabo, Adaeze Eluke, and others, is also being promoted to emphasize the need to raise awareness about the hidden aspects of female genital mutilation, as well as to further educate the public on the other consequences that are likely to result from the archaic practices," says Cyril.

According to the film's host, there are more unreported stories regarding female genital mutilation in some African communities that have negative consequences for the victims and their future generations, which the video aims to uncover.

The inaugural premiere of Break the Blade Movie will take place at Diamond Cinema in Spar Enugu Mall on Sunday, October 17th, 2021 at 4:00 pm.

You can get your ticket online or from the designated advertised centres.

Collaboration and intellect are the ability to work together toward a single vision, and talent can win games, but individual devotion to a project is what makes teamwork and people effective.

Francis Duru, an Imo state native and University of Port Harcourt thespian, is a team player, professionally trained theatre practitioner, actor, master of ceremony, model, director, and true visionary leader who has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make difficult decisions, and the compassion to listen to others' needs. He did not set out to be a leader, but his equal deeds and the sincerity of his intent as a good communicator committed to his passion for honesty and integrity make him one.

In this interview with Perekeme Odon, the 'Rattle Snake' actor discussed his role as Senior Medical Officer on Ola Rotimi's Hopes Of The Living Dead performance, which will take place on October 1, 2021, at The Arena, Tombia Street, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, and will be produced and directed by Ovunda Ihunwo.

PO: When you were younger, did you dream of going on to work in the entertainment industry as an actor?

Francis Duru: No

PO: Can you tell me what inspired you to pursue acting as a career?

Francis Duru: It was a chance/ opportunity waiting for the JAMB result in 1989/90.

PO: How long have you been performing as an actor?

Francis Duru: Since 1989

PO: Where did you get your start?

Francis Duru: Port Harcourt: Sette Productions (Pa Paul Worika) and Wizi Travelling Theatre (Professor Innocent Ohiri).

PO: What was the first stage/theatre production experience like?

Francis Duru: Awesome, tough but joyful.

PO: What initially drew you to pursuing a career in acting?

Francis Duru: Academics: Got trained academically and got inspired to embark on it professionally.

PO: You're in the cast of the play Hopes of the Living Dead. A drama of struggle, which figuratively depicts the diversity of our society as the play's Senior Medical Officer, how well prepared are you?

Francis Duru: As ready as now.

PO: Diction refers to both word choice and vocal expression or enunciation, and sentence structure is an important linguistic component of the playwright's style. It is through this element that a writer's thoughts, sentiments, and emotions are communicated to his audience. How do you intend to accomplish this in a play set in the pre-independence years of 1928-1932, depicting the characters' battle for the right to exist and live in dignity in society?

Francis Duru: The actor prepares psychologically, emotionally, physically. The director is a guide, the playwright has given tremendous insight into character delineation, the actor puts all that into place to birth the character. It is an ensemble, collaborative endeavour. Diction, language is a medium through which all these manifest. In-depth collaboration with the director in line with his character mould for the character can place the character within a geographical, socio-cultural context, status, etc. Which determine character portrayal? Diction/speech remains but the logical calculation of the thought of the character expressed in intelligible language flavoured to suit status, socio-cultural dimensions of the character. The director and the actors work towards this for the common good of the production.


PO: Do you think Ikoli Harcourt Whyte would have realized his potential and been cured if the lepers had not been brought to Uzoakoli?

Francis Duru: Multiple dimensions to that, and left to the audience to deduce.

PO: What methods would you employ to build a credible character for the Senior Medical Officer of 1928 as a well-trained theatre artist with years of experience and familiarity with the Konstantin Stanislavski acting theory? Are you, on the other hand, learning a brand-new acting method specifically for this project?

Francis Duru: Theories are but a guide, there is an unconscious pathway the actor goes through, it does not follow any theoretical framework. As the actor garners more experience, he becomes knowledgeable in character interpretation- thus he remains the chief interpreter and sometimes the tools he uses are wrapped in the mystery of the creative process. Until he deliberately studies his thought processes towards moulding character, he may not decipher which theory he is using, has used, or may use. The ultimate aim for the actor is to mould a believable character and to achieve emotional reality. If all actors deliberately study their thought processes, we will have theories greater than the Stanislavskis, Messners, you name them and many other great minds. Every acting book is a cumulative documented piece of an actors experience, thus every actor is an acting book that has not been written. Acting is a deep psychological process wrapped in a mystery like Shakespeare would say {“ There is no art to know the minds reconstruction”}.


PO: The drama shows what we face on a daily basis. Do you understand that no government has ever kept every promise it has made?

Francis Duru: It’s a known fact. Ola Rotimi was a prophet of his time, maybe his bespectacled nature made him see the future with graphic details as in “hopes of the living dead”(On a lighter note).

PO: Since Lee Strasberg's method of acting, which draws personal connections from the actor's feelings and experiences to create lifelike and realistic portrayals of the characters by using sensory memory, may not be present in your role in Hopes of the Living Dead, how do you improve your acting skills by using various acting techniques like Meisner's truth-based techniques and Chekhov's psycho-physical techniques?

Francis Duru: Study. Every actor is an acting book, every movie an acting class. Evaluating and having critical overviews on actors’ performances local or international, remains a learning process, it also helps me to be a better actor especially as I learn from them.

PO: When working with other actors, actors are required to play roles with precision, flexibility, and strong personal interpretational abilities. What role and actor are you most looking forward to seeing in this play?

Francis Duru: I have built myself to act without inhibitions. Acting is a collaborative art. Professor Emaselu likens it to “ A relay race baton technique” exemplified in the philosophy of the frog in Ola Rotimis Kurumi. “Bumi-Mbuo” “Mbuo- Bumi” “ Give me I take, I take I give you” (paraphrasing). I’m always ready to work with all, irrespective of status, sociological ties, adding value to all. It is a symbiotically- tied experience.

PO: Can you tell us about your personal interactions with Prof. Ola Rotimi, the playwright?

Francis Duru: He berated me for a big blunder on stage, which bothers on safety for the actor, I took a stupid risk all in the name of improvisation on stage. I cut myself while on stage in the play, (Spokesman for the Oracle Directed by Professor Ayakoroma Uniport Theatre) he noticed and sent for me at the end of the play, he literally flogged me, I was driven to his house and he gave me a meal of yam and stew with beef and told me something which remains my biggest award as an actor, I have held that and kept it so close to my chest- it has become a guiding principle till today.

PO: Talent or training, in your opinion, is more significant for an actor?

Francis Duru: Training, training.

PO: As a professional in both fields, how does acting in a film vary from acting in a theatre/stage play?

Francis Duru: Define the medium of expression. On stage, the medium is manual raw vocals. On Set, vocals are electronically amplified. Theatre requires more physicality, the set requires less delivery and expression, the camera makes it easier for the actor, stage calls for psychological immediacy.

PO: How do you rehearse a scene if the other actors with whom you need to engage are not available?

Francis Duru: Rehearsals come in different modes, understanding your script, finding the subtext, creating various contextual climes that surround the character and learning your lines are part of the rehearsals. Exchange in dialogue can always be done with standbys, double cast or anyone as may be available it does not pose any problem but there must be that one rehearsal that brings the actors concerned together.

PO: How do you respond when you receive a negative performance review?

Francis Duru: I look into criticism with objectivity and keep sentiments apart. Probe the criticism and you will find gold in it. Criticism is all part of the mix, I mean constructive criticism, no work of art functions without it, it is in line with ethics and practice.

PO: To be successful as an actor, one must have a thorough understanding of the character they are portraying in great detail. What actions do you take to thoroughly comprehend the significance of your character to the story??

Francis Duru: Character interpretation is a complex, spontaneous, psychological activity, critical thinking is key, and spontaneity is a constant. I do not have laid down techniques. As the thought process is on course, the memory bank is at work, aspects of imagination, observation, exploration of one’s innermost resources are at play. Critical thinking is on course, when critical thinking is on course, one can now boldly say that critical thinking remains a paradigm for character building and interpretation. (On a lighter note, at least naa this one fit be my own theory. Francis Duru theory on a lighter note aka lol)

PO: Can you tell me about your most recent stage experience?

Francis Duru: “Tony wants to Marry” Drive In Theatre, seamless, cool and enjoyable.

PO: How do you combine your professional and personal lives, because I see you living both lives at the same time?

Francis Duru: It’s a call to action to do all and apportion appropriate priority to all without hurting the other. Multitasking experience.

PO: How do you deal with squabbles between yourself and the directors?

Francis Duru: Talk it over, it’s not an ego thing. Diplomacy is key, keep shoulders down, listen to each other, do not talk to show you know or trying to impress, just express the concerns of the play. Superior wisdom rules, no one is the sole repository of knowledge. Nothing in life is conclusive.

PO: Describe your most difficult theatrical role to date.

Francis Duru: 84 years old German, the right part of his body stroke ridden, tobacco-smoking academician, Dr Karl Abrahamzick. I was in my certificate course in Theatre Arts then, a new undergraduate student doing a final year directing project for Dr Dike Nwachukwu with Prof Femi Osofisan as external examiner. The second one is Dr Guinea Byrd; Directed by Dr Carrol Dawes, pray she is still alive, written by Gwyneth Dawes, play titled Guinea Byrd, 1989/90. They all required in-depth characterization that till today, I still can’t fathom how that happened. Then “Sizwe Banzi Is Dead” by Athol Fugard directed by Nwafor Friday.

PO: Whom do you regard to be your acting role model, and why do you want to emulate their career?

Francis Duru: I do not emulate, I learn from them a lot. Denzel Washington & Alfredo James Pacino are my role models. Joke Silva & RMD - They inspire me and remain human institutions of learning in acting.

PO: What was your longest-running stage role?

Francis Duru: Dr. Byrd, 3 hours on transverse stage.

PO: A message to you fans on what to experience on the performance of the play, Hopes Of The Living Dead.

Francis Duru: Have a date with this beautiful piece from the master, it’s a time to cherish, bring the family. Theatre is life, come and have a wonderful experience.

When it comes to modern stage plays and performances in Port Harcourt, Edward Imo is a name that cannot be overlooked.

His diverse background in the entertainment sector allowed him to work in a variety of genres (stage, music and film). He has acted in leading roles and directed a number of theatres, cinema, and television projects.

Edward Imo has a PhD in Theatre Arts and Film Studies from the University of Port Harcourt and is a lecturer at the same institute.

On Independence Day, 1 October 2021, the actor and theatre instructor from Rivers State is anticipated to demonstrate a solid understanding of the subject area as Ikoli Harcourt Whyte of Ola Rotimi's Hopes Of The Living Dead at The Arena, 30 Tombia Road, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt.

Perekeme Odon of PTV Media chatted with the actor on his role as Ikoli Harcourt Whyte and other topics. Have fun with the interview...

PO: Could you tell us about the schools you attended?

Edward Imo: I attended Government Primary School, Ahoada, Western Ahoada County High School, Ahoada and the University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State where I studied Theatre Arts and Film Studies.

PO: As a youngster, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Edward Imo: My early childhood dream was to be a lawyer.

PO: Can you explain to us why Hopes of the Living Dead, a play symbolically portraying our society's variety, should be presented at the Garden City Arena in Port Harcourt on Nigeria's independence day, October 1, 2021?

Edward Imo: The production of Ola Rotimi's Hopes of the Living Dead is apt as Independence Day celebrations play because it portrays the leadership quagmire that has enveloped the Nigerian nation since independence in 1960. The play compels us to reflect on the gains and pains of Independence.

PO: Hopes of the Living Dead is a conflict drama that figuratively depicts the variety of our society via your character, Ikoli Harcourt Whyte, and the British Administration. How prepared are you to play the part in front of your followers and audience?

Edward Imo: By the grace of God, I am putting in my best to ensure that I do justice to the role interpretation of Ikoli Harcourt Whyte. Apart from the character being complex to interpret, I am a lecturer that would be acting with his students so I have the challenge to put up a scintillating performance befitting of my status of a lecturer that teaches theatre theory and Criticism. I need to be exemplary in my role interpretation so as to instil confidence in the student actors in the company on one hand, and the generous number of my fans outside the university community.

PO: Who exactly is Ikoli Harcourt Whyte?

Edward Imo: Ikoli Harcourt Whyte is a historical figure and epitome of purposeful leaders who championed the course of the leper's struggle for freedom at the hands of the management of the General Hospital, Port Harcourt. He is of Kalabari extraction, but his leadership scope transcends ethnicity. He is a singer, composer, conductor and philosopher. He represents transparent, selfless and dedicated leadership.

PO: Is this your first time portraying Ikoli Harcourt Whyte?

Edward Imo: Yes

PO: What piques your interest in this role, and what is your delivery rate for it?

Edward Imo: Well, I must confess that I have always dreamt of playing the role of Harcourt Whyte but in this production, I never lobbied for it. In the last production of Hopes of the Living Dead by the same director, Ovunda Ihunwo a few years ago, I played the role of Superintendent of Police but this time, the role was given to the Nollywood star, Charles Inojie. So the director simply cast me to play the role of Harcourt Whyte. The director is confident that I would deliver on the role any day. any time in spite of the challenges attached to it. Like I said earlier, I am ready psychologically, mentally and physically to deliver on the role interpretation of Ikoli Harcourt Whyte.

PO: What makes you the best choice for this role?

Edward Imo: I do not feel that I am the most suited for this role. I took on this role based on the decision of the director. I believe the director is convinced that I will do justice to this role having worked with me on several of his productions where I played leading and challenging roles.

PO: The information you've gathered has a significant influence on your personality. It's critical to know the era and historical period in which your character lives. How can you immerse yourself in the time and generation of your character to attain spoken English of then and now?

Edward Imo: Fundamentally, believable character interpretation requires in-depth research. I started by digging deep into history as regards the life and times of Ikoli Harcourt Whyte and also the predominant mannerisms and gestures of the times that he lived. My research became complemented by the details of stage business that Rotimi deposits in the script. These two factors have sharpened the thrust of my role interpretation of Harcourt Whyte.

PO: What is the most challenging scene in the play for you?

Edward Imo: Going by this, I would say the most challenging scene is Act One, titled "Crisis", Happenings Two (Page 27) where Harcourt Whyte has to rebuke Editor for being rude and pompous.

PO: What attitude and approach are needed for the position of Ikoli Harcourt Whyte?

Edward Imo: The character of Ikoli Harcourt Whyte is rounded and sensitive, so it requires developing a philosophic mindset as well as being reflective. Any actor playing this role will sure develop his skill for mood swings. Such an actor would also need to work seriously on his delivery patterns that are, modulation since the character speaks both in low and high tones depending on the predominant dramatic atmosphere.

PO: You must be a competent vocalist who knows virtually all of Ikoli Harcourt Whyte's odd hymn sections. Have you heard "Otuto Nke Chukwu" by Ikoli Harcourt Whyte and can you sing it?

Edward Imo: Good a thing I am a foundational chorister of the Anglican. I enrolled in the choir only when I was nine. This gave me some strong music orientation as a teenager. The director, Ovunda Ihunwo is a seasoned music director and choirmaster in the Anglican Church. So it became very easy for me to flow with him musically. I can safely tell you that I am at home with all the songs composed by Harcourt Whyte beyond " Otuto Nke Chukwu".

PO: In your opinion, which song by Ikoli Harcourt Whyte is the best?

Edward Imo: My best Harcourt's song is " Chegbem ooo"

PO: To what extent would your role interpretation reflect the playwright's emphasis on the interaction between leader and led?

Edward Imo: I see the issue of leadership as the thrust of the message raised in the play. In course of reading the play, I deduced an obvious breach in communication between the leaders and the led. It is this gap between them that informed my motivation for the characterization

PO: This is a typically melodramatic production that puts a lot of pressure on the actors and crew. Do you believe in the playwright's charge theory of holding your soul hostage until the production is over?

Edward Imo: Of course I believe in Ola Rotimi's charge theory to his cast and crew. The charge is one way of eliciting commitment from the actors. It should be spelt out that my director Ovunda Ihunwo tows a different path from Rotimi's charge theory, maybe as a result of the generational gap. Ovunda motivates his actors by being flexible in his approach to actors. He takes into cognizance the different challenges of cast and crew and ensures that he accommodates their plights in fixing rehearsals. Ovunda"s approach differs markedly from Rotimi's charge and demand for the actor's soul. So far so good, it has been working for Ovunda.

PO: What do you view as the most difficult task in this production?

Edward Imo: I foresee an overcrowding issue in the auditorium, which would necessitate audience management for both shows. The producer might run into some level of confusion trying to stop some enthusiastic members of the audience who may not have a seat to sit down and enjoy the show.

PO: How do you keep yourself motivated at work?

Edward Imo: The level of seriousness and commitment from the director determines motivation for any production. I get easily motivated working with Ovunda Ihunwo because he understands my busy schedule and the need to give me a break from time to time. He does not pressurize me and that's enough reason for me to be motivated to work with him.

PO: Can you tell me about a time when you failed in this job and what you learned from it?

Edward Imo: I cannot figure out any time I have failed in this role. However, the lesson I learnt is that, there is the need for an actor to study and master his line in good time. I have learnt that learning one's lines early enough sure prepare the actor ahead of the production.

PO: What is the most enjoyable aspect of becoming an actor?

Edward Imo: The best part of being an actor, for me is that moment when members of the audience come backstage looking for me to express their appreciation for a scintillating performance. That to me is the height of appreciation of my art.

PO: When did you first realize you wanted to be an actor?

Edward Imo: My acting spirit dates back to my infancy and formative years. As a boy of 10, I was already taking in the lines of all the characters in The New Masquerade.

PO: What do you know now about acting that you wish you knew when you first started?

Edward Imo: What I have learnt now is the virtue of learning my lines slowly and steadily for purposes of believable interpretation. Before now I would always be in a hurry to impress my director by taking in all my lines but today, I take my time to do that while still looking for appropriate characterization.

PO: Which three actors would you most like to collaborate with if you had the chance?

Edward Imo: Sam Dede, Richard Mofe-Damijo and Bimbo Manuel.

PO: Tell us about your proudest stage achievement.

Edward Imo: My greatest achievement on stage has been acting alongside Nobert Young, Bimbo Manuel and Monalisa Chinda in King Jaja as directed by Ovunda Ihunwo, and then Francis Duru, Segun Arinze, Ebele Okaro and Onyeka Onwenu in The Concubine as directed by same Ovunda Ihunwo.

PO: Do you also act on the big screen? If so, what is the distinction between film acting and stage/theatre acting?

Edward Imo: I have acted on screen but not much for now. The difference is much. But basically, the stage challenges you to be more involved in taking in your lines deeply, and the physicalization of the actions. While screen lures us to be lazy in taking in our lines far ahead of time since there is room to cut the recording in case of mistakes. Also, film acting requires more of our facial energy than the entire body.

PO: Do you like to perform in films or on stage?

Edward Imo: Stage acting sure gives me better satisfaction and challenges as a professional, but film acting has the potential to launch me into stardom faster. Both of them are important in their own rights. I prefer both of them.

PO: What are your future ambitions as an actor, and how long have you been in the profession of acting?

Edward Imo: I've been performing since 1997 when I was a Certificate student in Theatre Arts at Uniport. However, my interest in acting increased in 2006 when my path crossed with that of Ovunda Ihunwo at the Crab. He started bringing me into his productions to this day. My goal is to be a famous actor both on stage and screen in order to complement my core area like a theatre critic.

PO: What is the most difficult aspect of being an actor?

Edward Imo: The most difficult aspect of being an actor is the triviality attached to it by most persons in society because they feel that it is an all-comers’ profession. Working with a wrong cast and crew especially the director can make acting boring and demoralizing.

PO: Do you have the ability to play any musical instrument?

Edward Imo: Yes. I play the drums, bass guitar, conga, and a little keyboard.

PO: In what stage or theatre play did you first perform and how do you strive to enhance your acting talents using various theories and techniques of acting?

Edward Imo: My first production was Prof. Ikonne's No Man's Land as directed by Columbus Irisoanga in 1997. I played the role of Dr Akanda Akawo. I have always studied Stanislavsky's Method, and then Meisner's variant of Method. These theories have helped me a great deal.

PO: Are you a member of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) or the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP)?

Edward Imo: Yes. I am a member of both.

PO: Thank you very much for your time.

Edward Imo: You're most welcome.

Igweagu Blessing Ngozi, a screen and stage actress talks to Perekeme Odon about the Independence play production of Ola Rotimi's Hopes Of The Living Dead, produced and directed by Ovunda Ihunwo, which will take place on October 1, 2021, at The Arena Event Center, GRA, Port Harcourt.

Blessing, who is playing the character, Hannah will mix creativity and creative metamorphosis as she performs on the same stage alongside a few renowned and skilled Nigerian movie actors.

Read excerpts of the interview below.

ODON: Which state are you from?

Blessing: I am from Enugu State, Nigeria.

ODON: What are your educational qualifications?

Blessing: I obtained my First School Leaving Certificate at Otto Primary School, Ebute-Metta. I later went to Mainland Senior High School, Lagos state and then obtained a BACHELOR OF ARTS degree in Theatre and Film Studies at the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.

ODON: As a kid, what did you want to become when you grow up?

Blessing: I have always liked acting since childhood. I always participated in children drama and recitations in the church so when it was time for me to leave for the University, it was only natural that my choice of study was Theatre and Film Studies.

ODON: How long have you been an actor?

Blessing: I would say I have been an actor for about 20 years. I started acting as a child from the church in the children’s theatre department and then went on to study theatre and films studies at the University. I have also been in numerous stage plays, featured in movies and TV shows.

ODON: Can you remember your first stage/theatre production?

Blessing: My first stage/theatre was a play titled Deacon Dick. This was during my pre-degree programme at the University of Port Harcourt

ODON: What attracted you to begin a career as an actor?

Blessing: Growing up, my mother always watched a lot of Nollywood movies. Seeing how those actors kept them entertained made me more certain about picking up acting as a career.

ODON: The play, Hopes of The Living Dead is based on the true-life story of Ikoli Harcourt Whyte. Written by Ola Rotimi and directed by Ovunda Ihunwo. How prepared are you to mount the stage come October 1, 2021, at The Arena Event Center, GRA Port Harcourt?

Blessing: Very prepared but still thinking of ways to make my character more unique.

ODON: Did you audition for the role, Hannah?

Blessing: Yes I auditioned for the role of Hannah, and was cast by the director among another potential cast. Though there is a double for the role.

ODON: How inspirational is the role of Hannah in Ola Rotimi’s Hopes of the Living Dead, as directed by Ovunda Ihunwo to you?

Blessing: The Director, Dr Ovunda Ihunwo, portrayed the role of Hannah to be very inspirational by showcasing how she stood up for the inmate when the matron was trying to treat them like people of no importance just because they were living with leprosy.

ODON: Diction means both choices of words and vocal expression or enunciation. This play set in the pre-independence years during the Lepers' Rebellion of 1928 -32 illustrates the struggle of the characters to attain a right to exist and live in dignity in society. The use of language situated within a historical context clearly depicts this struggle in the context of an inter-relationship between leadership and followership. How do you plan to achieve that?

Blessing: I consulted native speakers of some of the Nigerian languages of the South-South to learn basic conversations in their native dialects. There are instances where my character chooses to express herself in one or more of these dialects.

ODON: Symbolism is a literary device used in writing, which stands for, suggests, or means something different. The Court Clerk symbolizes or represents Solomon in the Bible, and Ikoli Harcourt Whyte represents Moses. What does Hannah symbolize?

Blessing: Hannah in this context symbolizes Esther. Hannah stood up for the inmates, she defended the inmates when the hospital matron saw them as a nuisance because they had leprosy and just as Esther in the bible, Hannah advocated and stood up for her people.

ODON: What steps do you take to fully understand the importance of your character to the story, Hopes of The Living Dead?

Blessing: First by reading the script and understanding the script, then understanding the role of Hannah in the play, knowing the character motivation like why Hannah reacted the way she did to the matron, also the situation surrounding the character.

ODON: Do you believe the play depicts what we face in the real-life Nigeria of today?

Blessing: Yes I do, looking at how the government treats its citizens not caring if they live or die.

ODON: What acting techniques do you use to create a believable character?

Blessing: I use Sanford Meissner’s technique, which is “truthful acting”, making each scene look believable and Stanislavsky’s method which is “emotional memory”. In my own case, what I understand by this is that the audience has to believe your character and the emotions being expressed to them.

ODON: How do you prefer theatre acting to film?

Blessing: Both goes for me, though acting on stage is a bit more tedious with immense pressure and expectation to deliver a character expertly. You have to attend multiple rehearsals in order to get used to the stage geography and also rehearsing constantly to get used to the exaggerated expressions and Familiarizing with other characters.

ODON: Have you progressed in your acting career as you have expected?

Blessing: I have made progress but I am not where I wish to be yet.

ODON: How different is it to act in a movie and to act in a theatre play?

Blessing: Theatre requires intense vocalization and the characters are to an extent exaggerated to pass on the emotions and atmosphere to the audience. This is not present in movie making.

ODON: Which has been your favourite character that you have performed on stage?

Blessing: The character of ihuoma in Elechi Amadi’s Concubine, directed by Dr. ovunda Ihunwo for Rivers at 50.

ODON: Have you any concerns with the director that you have to work yourself over and over again?

Blessing: I always work with Dr Ovunda Ihunwo who believes in spontaneity and prefers that words be pronounced correctly. So I try as much as possible to make each scene believable and often research the correct pronunciation even before going for a general script reading.

ODON: What has been your biggest achievement in the field of acting?

Blessing: That would be when my team travelled for competition in Italy “Teresa Pomodoro” and for a festival in Egypt “Cairo International Festival for Contemporary and Experimental Theatre”.

ODON: Mention any special recognition or award that you have received for your acting skills?

Blessing: There is none at the moment, but I am hoping for one soon.

ODON: Give us a few tips to be a successful actor?

Blessing: The first on my list on how to become a successful and better actor is to keep learning, learning from every circumstance, from colleagues, from your director, from movies. This will help you be at the top of your game and get you more contracts. Take on different roles even though they may not be in your comfort zone so as not to be stereotyped.

ODON: How do you rehearse a scene if the other actors you need to interact with within the scene are not available?

Blessing: I imagine that all the other characters are present in my space as I practice.

ODON: How do you react when you receive a negative review about a performance?

Blessing: I reflect upon the comments, consider if the criticisms are constructive and note the areas to be improved upon.

ODON: Whom do you consider to be your acting role model whose career you would like to emulate, and why?

Blessing: My acting role model would be the director Dr Ovunda Ihunwo who I am currently working with on the production Hopes Of The Living, who is also a spontaneous actor.

ODON: What was your longest-running role on stage?

Blessing: The role of Ihuoma in Elechi Amadi’s Concubine.

ODON: How do you feel playing in alongside two Nollywood greats, Francis Duru and Charles Inojie?

Blessing: I feel honoured, being on stage with such great actors. I feel like a dream come true for me.

ODON: Describe your last experience on stage.

Blessing: My last stage experience was in Egypt 2019, the performance was quite tasking and technical to deliver but fulfilling.

ODON: Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

Blessing: I see myself in the next five as a well-known actor locally and internationally

ODON: Are you a member of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), or the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP)

Blessing: I am a member of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts practitioners (NANTAP)

ODON: A message to you fans on what to anticipate on the performance of the play, Hopes Of The Living Dead.

Blessing: They should expect an extremely captivating theatrical performance.

ODON: Thanks for your time.

Blessing: You’re highly welcome... Thank you

By Perekeme Odon

On October 1, 2021, Chief Dr. Ovunda Ihunwo fta, one of Nigeria's best cinematic theatre directors, will perform 'Hopes Of The Living Dead', a play written by Prof. Ola Rotimi, with his theatrical company at the Garden City, Port Harcourt stage.

Dr. Ovunda, a dramatist from Rivers State, is a professionally educated actor, musician, and instructor at the University of Port Harcourt's Theatre Arts Department. He is a Fellow of Theatre Arts and a member of the Directors' Guild of Nigeria (DGN).

He's been tearing up the stages and screens, dishing out a human-centred and politically driven performance that tackles current challenges impacting the family and Nigeria in general. According to West End actor, Kenneth Haigh, "You need three things in the theatre - the play, the actors and the audience, and each must give something." Dr. Ovunda shares the secret of his successful career and forthcoming play production in this interview with PTV Media.

PTV: What primary, secondary and tertiary institutions did you attend?

Ovunda: I attended Air Force Primary School Port Harcourt, but sat for the First School Leaving Certificate Examination at Community Primary School, Olanada, Rivers state, and proceeded to Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Bishop Crowther Memorial Secondary School, and Army Day Secondary School, Bori Camp, all in Port Harcourt. I attended the University of Port Harcourt where I had my B. A. Theatre Arts, M. A. Film Studies and PhD. Film Studies.

PTV Media: As a kid, what did you want to be when you grow up?

Ovunda: I wanted to be a musician. So I looked forward to studying music but my parents would have none of that. It took some struggle and rebellion before I settled for Theatre Arts.

PTV Media: You are a professionally trained actor, dramatist, film director and lecturer. What ingratiated you to live drama/stage production, and why a drama of struggle with 'Hopes of The Living Dead', a play that symbolically illustrates the question of our society's plurality to be performed on Nigeria’s Independence Day?

Ovunda: Live drama for me, still has that electrifying feel because of the instant feedback it gets. It also toughens the actor and gives him the latitude to express himself artistically. My reason for choosing to stage Ola Rotimi's 'Hopes of the Living Dead' on Independence Day is to awaken our consciousness because we have become a people groping in the dark. Nigeria is now like a rudderless ship heading for the precipice. There is the need for us to search for purposeful and selfless leadership that can steer the ship in the right direction.

PTV Media: Oddly, Ola Rotimi is still a familiar name to many Nigerian Theatre Arts students, lecturers in Theatre Arts departments in Nigerian Universities, and theatre enthusiasts in Nigeria. Can you throw a few lights about the playwright?

Ovunda: Funny enough, I never met him but I have heard and read so much about his strong personality and commitment to the growth of theatre. I have been privileged to produce and direct a number of his plays too.

PTV Media: 'Hopes of the Living Dead' by Ola Rotimi dramatizes and illustrates the historical pre-independence years during the Leprosy’s' Rebellion of 1928-32 with the struggle of the characters to attain a right to exist live in dignity in society. It also tells us through the use of language situated within a historical context clearly depicting the struggle in the context of an inter-relationship between leadership and followership. Why did you choose a play that captures the fear, resoluteness and determination, and why Port Harcourt, where the story is set with Harcourt Whyte?

Ovunda: Well, it could have been anywhere. Port Harcourt, Lagos, Abuja, etc, but Port Harcourt is my base. In fact, we have plans to stage this play in Abuja and Accra too. My reason for choosing this play is that we have come to that time when the people must take their destiny into their hands and demand leaders that can be held accountable in all facets of society. If the revolution begins in Port Harcourt, others will hear it and take dressing.

PTV Media: 'Hopes of the Living Dead' is a unique drama easy to follow because of its heterogeneous blend of many Nigerian languages used in the dialogue. Ibibio, Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo are among the languages spoken by the characters. Are you going to use your directorial licence to infuse more visible languages due to the way the Nigerian state is going on?

Ovunda: Sure! It depends on what language my actors are fluent with. In this case, I added Ekpeye and Esan languages.

PTV Media: Ekpeye and Esan languages? That’s interesting. Don’t you think Ola Rotimi drew on personal experience as a defender of the downtrodden, by commissioning himself in Hopes of the Living Dead to show his dislike to the Nigerian post-independence leaders merely using the leprosy plot as an alibi?

Ovunda: You may be right. That’s why the play still remains relevant today.

PTV Media: In many parts of Africa, songs, mime, and dance are all part of the theatre, and the playwright demonstrates all that in the play to understand the characters' and society's cultural sensibilities. How are you going to achieve that?

Ovunda: I’m a music lover. It is difficult for me to stage any play that is not total theatre. 'Hopes Of The Living Dead' has a lot of Harcourt Whyte songs, and we have done justice to them in such a way that the audience will not only be entertained with good drama but will also be enthralled with great classical music.

PTV Media: Stage or theatre production is very painstaking. While Ola Rotimi obviously has high expectations for the people around him, it's also evident that he was able to overcome the variety of forces that worked against his works. Do you believe in the charge theory of Ola Rotimi during rehearsal when he said, 'Those who show up (for the first rehearsal) remember - in theatre work, my bargain is that of the devil himself: you volunteer your person, I insist on your soul, till the production is over?

Ovunda: I’ve been privileged to work with very committed artists. The realities have changed today. You can’t insist on the soul of a hungry man who also has bills to pay. So, I try to be as flexible as possible but with every sense of theatre discipline.

PTV Media: A film director uses the size of the shot to focus the audiences’ attention- a close-up being the way to give the biggest impact. The actor will be directed to move across the stage to get the audience to focus on that line of dialogue. The proscenium is the biggest difference, but I still want to ask what kind of stage would be befitting for a production like 'Hopes of The Living Dead'?

Ovunda: In 2018, I staged 'Hopes Of The Living Dead' at the University of Port Harcourt Arts Theatre (Crab), on a Thrust Stage. This time around, the Arena Events Centre, Port Harcourt has a proscenium stage. So it can work anywhere. All the director needs to do is to make necessary adjustments in the blocking.

PTV Media: A director is someone who collaborates with the actors and the production crew to bring a script to life for the viewers and audience. What is the difference between a theatre director and a film director, and what are their responsibilities.

Ovunda: The responsibilities are the same; directing, interpreting and making sure that other collaborators key into the overall vision. The difference is in the technicalities.

PTV Media: How was the audition and casting of the play, Hopes of The Living Dead? Did you table cast or handpick the actors already in mind?

Ovunda: I had an audition and hand-picked some key actors.

PTV Media: It’s like you took an eye-catching and impactful design in this production with the casting of known popular Nollywood A-List actors like Francis Duru and Charles Inojie into the production. Is it for the box office show or for professionalism?

Ovunda: Apart from being A-List actors, Francis Duru and Charles Inojie are theatre artists and graduates of Theatre Arts from the University of Port Harcourt. It’s like a homecoming for them. You can’t also rule out the box office effect.

PTV Media: I want you to share an effective directorial approach to working with a large cast and crewmembers. How has your approach affected your rehearsals?

Ovunda: I always set out what I want to achieve for every rehearsal. I have a chat with my choreographer if there has to be dances, and tell him what I want. I don’t like long rehearsals. For that reason, I segment the play and concentrate on each segment for rehearsal. My cast is always comfortable with my pattern.

PTV Media: Describe a time where you had to fire someone because they weren't the correct fit.

Ovunda: I have not had that experience. However, I have had to fire a lot of actors who think they are indispensable to deter others.

PTV Media: What are the most difficult production problem you had to solve?

Ovunda: I had great challenges when I staged production in Cairo, Egypt. I could not communicate with the lighting technician. To solve the problem, I re-blocked the play, dispersed out some of my lines and turned the rest to voice-over narration. Then, I had to man the lighting booth and did the voice from there.

PTV Media: How do you balance your work and private lives, because I can see you live both lives simultaneously?

Ovunda: That’s the beauty of our work na. We enjoy what we do. So, where others see stress, we see fun while working.

PTV Media: What was casting like in the production, Hopes of The Living Dead?

Ovunda: My main challenge was in cutting down on the number of cast and crew. Everybody wanted to be part of it, but I had to use music as a criterion. Casting was based majorly on voice texture and the ability to sing.

PTV Media: With such a large cast and crew, how do you establish and enforce rules in your rehearsals?

Ovunda: If a director is disciplined, enforcing rules cannot be a heinous task, whether with a cast of five persons or a hundred. I show the way; my phones don’t ring during rehearsals, I keep to time, and comport myself even in my own production. Members of the cast don’t have a choice but to do likewise.

PTV Media: Please, can you share an example of how you helped coach or mentor someone, and what improvements did you see in the person's knowledge or skills?

Ovunda: As an actor trainer, I make sure that my students and mentees have adequate training in theory and practice. I teach them that packaging helps talent. I also engage them in meaningful productions that challenge them, as well as help them pay some bills. Most of them have not disappointed me. Today, I can conveniently give them a project and be assured of their delivery.

PTV Media: What is your dream collaboration in acting and directing either on stage or screen?

Ovunda: My dream collaboration is getting an international agency to fund a world tour, and participate in as many theatre festivals as possible.

PTV Media: Yes, production is a collective and collaborative venture. However, which actor playing a particular character are you rooting at to make the play come to life?

Ovunda: it is hard to say for this production but Harcourt Whyte has a lot of work to do. I trust him to deliver.

PTV Media: Who are the sponsors behind this great show coming up on October 1st 2021, and where is the venue?

Ovunda: This production is self-sponsored. Though, of late, we got some support from Fartrek Travels, Daayra Limited, and Grid. We also have media support from media houses in Port Harcourt.

PTV Media: What plan are you making to charge the town and gown together to make one holistic creative family?

Ovunda: We have been in it and it’s working.

PTV Media: What advice do you have for the government concerning the Nigerian theatre industry?

Ovunda: Let Government create a conducive and enabling working environment, and support works of art. For us in Rivers State, we are blessed with a Governor that loves the theatre and has shown tremendous support to artists of whom I am one. We still hope that he does more like establishing community theatres in other parts of the state.

PTV Media: What advice do you have for parents of kids who want to be actors, musicians and directors like you?

Ovunda: Do they still, need advice? I doubt it because the number of students seeking to study theatre and film is growing in leaps and bounds. Our works and achievements have given enough advice.

PTV Media: Describe the next five years of your life and your plan.

Ovunda: By The Grace of God, in the next five years, I would have become a Professor. I plan to establish an academy where I can train and breed professionals. I also plan an international theatre as I mentioned earlier.

PTV Media: If you could pass on one message to your fans, what message would that be?

Ovunda: Hard work and consistency pays. Be good at what you do, and light will shine on you someday.

PTV Media: I wish you all the best of luck come October 1, 2021.

Ovunda: I appreciate you for this beautiful interview. The pleasure is mine. Thanks a great bunch.

By Perekeme Odon

The 5th edition of the Ghana International Film Summit (GIFS) has come and gone with memories still lingering in our hearts. The dynamic summit-event, which is designed to inform, inspire and empower filmmakers in the Ghanaian film industry and Africa on how to overcome and transform the wider film ecosystem in training, distribution and marketing.

The two-day Covid-19 Compliant event, anchored by Rev. Ernest Ackom, former General Secretary of Film Directors Guild of Ghana (FDGG), was held at the prestigious Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) on Friday 03-04 September 2021, which also attracted first-rate keynote presentations, panel sessions, open forum and presentation of awards to the Ghanaian industry practitioners, as well as focused on the innovative creative and business strategies from around the world, with special emphasis on Ghana and African film industry - deliberating on creating key initiatives gateway on the business of filmmaking.

The event was organized by the apex body for all cinematographic authors, film and television directors who undertake the making of motion pictures, Film Directors Guild of Ghana (FDGG) and Holyworld Entertainment Centre, in collaboration with the Street of Gold Foundation, MICE Ghana, Mice West Africa and Mice Africa reeled out an unparalleled enthralling experience of film and media displays and networking from practitioners from Africa filmmakers.

This year’s edition was particularly special with the theme, ‘Instituting Continental Integration For Holistic Development Of Ghana And Africa Film Industry’; a chance to rediscover the excitement and continue the consideration of strategic plans to develop the culture and film industry in Ghana and Africa at large with the energy of others who share the same concept of collaborative and inspiring cinematic creativity.

In his opening remark, the President of the Film Directors Guild of Ghana, Mr. Richard Yaw Boateng, welcomed all guests and stakeholders and disclosed his displeasure on the apathetic attitude on how the Ghanaian film industry is being disconnected by various administrative departments at the helms to drive things optimistically.

“I am very delighted to welcome you all to the 5th edition of the Ghana International Film Summit here in Accra. As we all know, the film industry is the vehicle for promoting tourism, arts and culture of every country. It is rather unfortunate that, when you come to Ghana, the film industry is not really considered as important to the development of the tourism industry.” He stated.

The FDGG President affirmed that “The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) organizes events and does not see the need and importance to invite or collaborate with the mainstream film associations and guilds in the country, whereas the majority of the films shot in Ghana always display and showcase the visual narratives of tourism potentials in their creative works, the movies.”

Though, the DGN President emphasized that the story is the same in Nigeria and other African countries, but believed the time has come for all parties to rally around together as partners of the same interest to support the development of the film industry in Ghana and other African countries thereby integrating the cinema culture in Africa.

Validating the drive of the African cinema production, the President of Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Mr. Victor Okhai, counselled African countries not to be narrow-minded in their cognitive advances, but open up and break boundaries and barriers by embracing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement founded in 2018, which is to create a single continental market for goods and services, with free movement of business persons and investments, and thus pave the way for accelerating the establishment of the African Economic Community and Customs Union.

“We prefer to see a foreign scheme other than ours, forgetting that we Africans need each other to succeed. Enhancing trade integration between African countries could yield large economic gains. There is a need for us to open up because the AfCFTA Agreement is a framework agreement covering Trade in Goods and Services, Investment, Intellectual Property Rights and Competition Policy. The agreement enables us to move goods and services both of which are in the film industry. We have goods in the sense that we produce products - films, and services, in the sense that we have technicians and crew members that we travel across other African countries with to develop local capacities, and also dispersed disbursement.”

The DGN President accentuated the development of infrastructure and engaging in collaborative ventures to assist one another by capitalizing on our numbers and what brings us together than what divides us.

“We are not competing in any form. Envy is a sign of weakness and admittance of failure to measure up to the next man. We should seek solutions on how to improve ourselves on things we believe are challenged to us. We have allowed the colonialists to separate us if not, there is no cultural difference between Nigeria and Ghana, except the size of the population. Numbers are huge and that’s why countries need to engage in co-production enterprises to boost sales. There is a lot in the value chain of filmmaking, not minding who is coming to take our jobs. If Nigeria and Ghana come together, perhaps, we can lead the rest of the continent.”

One of the guest speakers, the Board Chairman of National Film Authority, Ghana, Mr. David Dontoh, hailed the President of the Film Directors Guild of Ghana for putting all this film summit together, and also hail the President of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria for his presence. He informed the sense of working together and the effectiveness of always being in the company of wise people as he recapped his experience on the first Nigeria-Ghana co-production where he acted alongside Sam Dede and Edith Ayalogu.

“I remember in 1967 Ghana’s population was 6.5 million and Nigeria was 40 million, and we bellowed, but today it’s a different story. Human beings abound in separate different times around the world. People advised that it was dangerous to act alongside Nigerian actors when they first came, and I asked how dangerous is it when I am an actor, and not a standup comedian acting alone before the camera. Even the idea behind the television quiz game was brought from Nigeria, and we started it. Unfortunately, viewers ran away because it was a Nigerian concept, but I stood and it became one of the best television programmes we’ve ever had in Ghana. So it is important to us to accept human beings in our communities.”

He also related how he was attacked and insulted on radio and television for giving Ghanaian Music Awards to a Nigerian. “I was fought and abused, but the Ghana Music Awards is the best music award we have in Ghana today. Every year, artistes come from various countries to compete for the honour.” He stated.

Mr. Dontoh acknowledged that the government would be well briefed about the outcomes of the event and remains steadfast in its support for the development of film production in Ghana. “The President and Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture will be informed since the event is being captured for further implementation.”

The former CEO, MultiChoice Ghana Limited, Mr. Cecil Sunkwa-Mills stimulated a headway as he stressed the need for each African country’s structure to be put in place for further dialogue to tackle piracy, copyright and other ills affecting the African film industry.

“The NFA in Ghana should be speaking with similar bodies in Nigeria, Kenya and other African countries. Kenya has made a positive evolution in copyright, but we are not. The old copyright laws should be looked into because there is a need to do an in house cleaning since we have a lot of new media platforms today. NFA must form a working group that must include the guilds and associations.”

The former CEO of MultiChoice Ghana Limited furthermore went ahead to question how many other organizations do practitioners have to pay fees for rights and content. “All these should be streamlined because there are limited resources. We may not be able to give out money to production companies, but we can bring in equipment at a reduced cost for hiring so that production becomes more affordable.

He advised filmmakers to engage in mergers and collaborations so as to cut costs. “The fact that you’re a producer may not make you have full capacity to be able to produce a certain quality of content. So we need to consider a partnership for the better capability of quality., so we can start competing with other countries. We should also look at the subscription level on DStv in Ghana compared to what’s obtainable in other countries.”

Keynote speakers and panellists at the summit include Salim Hannawi, Film Advocate; Mr. Albert Jackson-Davis, senior Film Actor; Mr. Victor Okhai, DGN President; Mr. Cecil Sunkwa-Mills, former CEO of MultiChoice Ghana Ltd; Mr. David Dontoh, Board Chairman of National Film Authority, Ghana; Patricia Penton (Jamaica); and Octavias Tchibozo (Togo), Face of Miss MICE Global 2021.

The high point of the event was the presentation of legendary awards in various categories. Awards in the acting category are awards to Kofi Adjorlolo, Andrews Frimpong, Rabby Bray, Eunice Banini, Edinam Atatsi, Ekow Blankson, Kwame Yeboah Obroni One, Pascalina Edward, SunSum, Oscar Provencal, Ricky Kofi Adelayitar, Christiana Awuni, Joseph Pamfo (Shotingo), Abeiku Sagoe, Ellen Kyei White, Etty Bedi, Peter Ritchi, Derick Kobina Bonney, Clement Ashiteye (Clemento Suarez), Richmond Xavier Amoakoh (Lawyer Nti) and Jeffrey Nortey (Papa Nii).

The following deserving film crew in the below-the-line category also carted home awards. Elitasu Kalifa, Kofi Asante, Prince kojo Hilton, Anaba Kodjo, Rhemah Bright Dzamposu, Gordon Weldy Quaye, James Adofo, Sulaimon Rasak and Gifty Mawuena Sossavi.

Frederick Fiifi Hayford, Samuel Ofosu Ampadu, Bob Smith Jnr, and Prince Yawson carted the awards of producers of the year.

While the film directors of the year awards went to Samuel Appiah (Sampower), Eric Essien, Kalifa Adam Kalifa, and Romeo David Amoateng.

The President FDGG thanked the organizing committee members of His Majesty, Royal Panford (Coordinator), Haruna Seidu Soale (operations), Lewis Kwame Atchoglo (Research Consultant), Kofi Appianing (Event Coordinator), Anaba Kodjo (Organiser), Ellen Agbavor (Media Consultant) and Rev. Ernest Ackom (IT Consultant) for their support over the past five years when the summit launched.

His Majesty, Royal Panford who expressed his sincere thanks and gratitude to all guests, stakeholders and Gentlemen of the Press for their immense support to the success of the summit, enjoined them to keep faith with the development schemes and programmes of the next Ghana International Film Summit 2022, presented a vote of thanks and closing remark. “We are indeed grateful to you all and may God bless Ghana.”

Present at the event is Mr. Destiny Austin Omon, Abigail Ofosu, General Manager, Business Resource Centre of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ghana; Ahmed Naamann, Director of Dodi Travels & Tours; Perekeme Odon, PRO of Directors’ Guild of Nigeria; Amb. Nancy Q. Sam, President, Women In Tourism & Business, Ghana; Austin Akpobome Useh, Member, DGN (Nigeria), and Joe Boy D’ One Man Band.

By Edward E. Imo

Set against the backdrop of the post–Covid-19 pandemic in a developing civilization, Ovunda’s “We Are Here, We Are Here” stands out as a theatrical experiment that harps on the indigenous African antidote to the pandemic beyond observing all its preventive protocols. This was a special presentation on the 2021 edition of World Theatre Day held on the 27th March 2021 with the theme “Building Sustainable Communities.”

In this presentation, Ovunda adopts the Brechtian technique of “a -play- within a- play” whereby a theatre troupe is rehearsing a play that borders on love and nature and in the process, the director of the play who also goes by the name DIRECTOR, manifests some symptoms of the dreaded Covid-19 virus. Some days later, the actors receive the news of the death of their director and expectedly, they are thrown into some psychological trauma which, in turn, dampens their rehearsal spirit and excitement. In their state of bereavement and confusion, an elderly man, whom we later identify as Elder Nyekazi, a cultural and traditional activist, enters to commiserate with them. Beyond consoling the actors, Nyekazi educates them on the proficiency and effectiveness of traditional African herbs and health practices. He also charges them to always use their artistry to profess their true African identity as well as extol the rich African cultural heritage. At first, the actors receive Nyekazi’s admonitions with some scepticism but upon further reflection, it dawns on them that Nyekazi’s words are the necessary tonic for them to imbibe the African consciousness while trying to get over the death of their director.

Motivated by Nyekazi’s wise counsel, the actors go-ahead to stage the long rehearsed play and after a scintillating performance, they take a bow and as they make to leave the stage, Director enters. In their fear and panic that they have seen a ghost, the actors make to run but were refrained by Director who convinces them that he did not die anymore because Elder Nyekazi revived him through herbal teas and spices. The play ends on this happy note as Director reiterates the need to adopt traditional African remedies to the deadly Covid-19 pandemic.

Ovunda’s “We Are Here We Are Here” is a full blast artistic statement that amplifies the need for Africans to return to their aboriginal value system that is premised on love, unity and peaceful coexistence. In this performance, Ovunda adopts the eclectic style where Jerzy Growtosky’s Poor Theatre, Vsevolod Meyerhold’s Biomechanics, Bertolt Brecht’s Verfremdungseffekt and Richard Wagner’s Gesamtkunstwerk are fused in some form of “artistic collagism” quite reminiscent of African total theatre experience. Music is used judiciously to accentuate mood as well as convey the emotional dispositions of the characters, costumes are highly suggestive and impressionistic characteristic of experimental performances, the language flourishes between the poetic and the prosaic while characters are more of existential beings without personal history or biography except for Elder Nyekazi whom we identify as a cultural and traditional activist of the Ikwerre extraction. True to the avant-garde performance tradition, characters metamorphose from tables to chairs, forest to love gardens and then back to human beings. Similarly locations and time blend intermittently which are typical of the expressionist drama of August Strindberg.

Amidst the excellent adoption of the theatrical experimental approach geared towards the African total theatre orientation, “We Are Here, We Are Here” offer us a strong message of hope. Hope for an Africa that is detribalized. Hope for an Africa that is capable of surmounting the numerous threat of high mortality by the flu pandemic, an Africa that is blessed and fortified by nature against epidemics. An intelligible Africa that is bound by love, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, unity of purpose and hungry for rapid development using her God-given resources.

The experimental theatre approach has been Ovunda Ihunwo’s forte since his formative years as a theatre director. This performance is therefore one of his numerous experimental theatre outings. His ingenuity and passion for theatre practice have fetched uncountable awards and accolades including being conferred with the prestigious recognition as a Fellow of Theatre Arts (FTA) by the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP). It would be almost impossible not to doff your cap for Ovunda Ihunwo after savouring his latest theatrical recipe- “We Are Here, We Are Here”.

Edward E. Imo PhD, fta
(Theatre Critic and Reviewer)

By Perekeme Odon

It was a truly special and memorable experience as Nigeria’s premier and leading private university, Igbinedion University, organized a colloquium to join the country festival in honour of an iron-jawed icon of the Nigerian motion picture industry, Amb Lancelot Oduwarene Imasuen’s 50th birthday celebration at the Main Library Conference Hall, Igbinedion Univerisity, Okada on June 17, 2021.

The golden colloquium also marked Lancelot Imasuen’s 25 years of excellent service as a distinctive filmmaker with a style that manages to navigate both mainstreams Nollywood, and African independent cinema.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye in his introductory remark informed that the Benin Film Academy under the watchful leadership and supervision of Amb. Lancelot has received over 50 local and international awards, including the Zuma International Film Festival Finalist’s Best Film, titled ‘Depression’, and Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival finalist Best Short Film.

“Very distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it may interest you to know that for 25 years now, this creative artist that we celebrate today remains an accomplished filmmaker and director. Amb. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen popularly known as D’Guvnor, and crowned in this university, ‘The Living Legend’ has transverse solemnly the chosen field of his endeavour with so much success.”

He gave God the glory and eulogized a man who has productively given so much to the entertainment industry.

“No amount of recognition or honour bestowed on him by the Igbinedion University to this ‘Living Legend’ and icon of the creative industry would be too great.”

Prof. Ezemonye primed that it is instructive that all Lancelot Imasuen’s films, his endeavours, creative writings and actions have given the Nollywood industry, and academia a point of reference both of growth and visibility.

“Today, the works of this icon that we celebrate have received accolades both locally and internationally too numerous to mention, and they speak volumes.”

The Vice-Chancellor reminded everyone about the university’s Nollywood Project 101, functioning under the auspices of the award-winning Benin Film Academy in affiliation with the Igbinedion University headed by Amb. Lancelot Imasuen fits into this bill and is well-positioned to enhance the skill acquisition of the Theatre Arts department of the great university, as well as other willing departments to create and carve a niche for them through this exemplary programme.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Cultural ‘Revival Through The Screen’, include guest speakers Prof. Irene Isoken Ogunloye, Professor of African Drama, Gender, Women & Film Studies, University of Jos and Prof. Barclays Foubiri Ayakoroma, Head of Department, Theatre Arts, University of Africa, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa state took turns to pay glowing tributes to Amb. Lancelot, and emphasized the need to embrace, promote and sustain Nigerian rich cultural heritage.

According to Prof. Ayakoroma, “We looked at the works of Amb. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, D’Guvnor as we call him and how he has promoted culture through his works in his productions, and these are words on marble that would be remembered forever.”

Prof. Irene Ogunloye also affirmed in an interview that, “The summary of my lecture in Lancelot Imasuen’s work is that culture is man-made, and therefore it can be deconstructed and reconstructed for the good of humanity.”

Other contributors were Brandi Cullum, founder / CEO Brandi Cullum Group International, Georgia, USA and Prof. Tunde Agara, Dean, College of Art and Social Sciences, Igbinedion University, who was ably represented by the Head of Theatre Arts Department said the colloquium is another great feat of the institution that will positively impact and inspire students.

Amb. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen whose signature style is to tell quirky, slightly otherworldly but culturally oriented stories, often character-driven, but in a very visually distinctive way expressed deep appreciation to the institution for the honour, and pledged his support to drive excellence in the art.

“I feel really loved, by giving God the glory and salute the talent he has given to me, and the way He has directed me to use my talent that has attracted this kind of huge celebration to my person. I salute Igbinedion University and all other institutions, and places that did celebrate me.”

Nollywood sensational actor, Nosa Rex who was vastly present at the occasion said, “ Lancelot is great and a living legend, that’s why we are celebrating him. He has done so much for us, created a niche for himself and making us proud.”

Another Nollywood finest Diamond Okechi said, “Lancelot is a father and one man I don’t joke with. He is a man I’ve got so much love and respect for. So celebrating him is like celebrating my father.”

The President, Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Sir Victor Ohkai, appreciated the Vice-Chancellor for the step taken by the university to choose a very credible partner in Amb. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen while presenting him an award in recognition of his works and as co-founder of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria.

“There is no greater honour than one that comes from home. Amb. Lancelot Imasuen is a beacon of light in which we are proud of.”

Lancelot Oduwarene Imasuen, born June 21, 1971, is a Nigerian film director, scriptwriter, film producer and CEO of the Benin Film Academy; an institution set to groom talent in the movie industry. His ability to perceive and depict the tone of contemporary society is shown in his movies, ranging from Yesterday, Issakaba, Last Burial, Wede, ATM, Gbege and Invasion 1896 to name only a few.

The golden jubilee birthday celebration was attended by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Igbinedion University, Prof. Mrs. Deborah Omotsefe Odejimi, Edo State Deputy Governor Representative, Hon. Zibiri Muhizu Marvelous, Mr. Uchenna Agbo, DGN National Secretary, Perekeme Odon, DGN National PRO, and Mr. Famous Otakponmwem.

Others include Jeremiah Onoge, Lovebest Ogie-Moses, Nosa Rex, Diamond Okechi, Ino Moses Jonah, PRO AMP, Edo state, Iyobosa Enaibe Osifo, Ameh Imasuen, staff and students of Igbinedion University.

By Perekeme Odon

Nigeria’s premier and leading private university, Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State have partnered with the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN) in the area of training and capacity building.

The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, announced the alliance at the 50th birthday celebration in honour of an icon in the Nigerian film industry, Amb. Lancelot Oduwarene Imasuen, at the Main Library Conference Hall, Igbinedion University, Okada on June 17, 2021.

Prof. Ezemonye in his opening remark acknowledged the contributions of the movie expert and said the historic event afforded a distinctive prospect for the institution’s theatre arts students not only to tangibly interrelate with experts of creative arts but also benefit from the master class that will trail as a major outcome of the colloquium.

“Very distinguished ladies and gentlemen, today is a unique day and this is a token of our reflection on industry-academia interface. As the pioneer private university in Nigeria established in 1999, 22 years old and still counting, this university has a firm commitment to academic excellence, scholarship and desire to equip our graduates with the tool of survival.”

The DGN President, Sir Victor Okhai, who was venerated by the university, expressed his appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor for choosing a very credible partner in Amb. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen while presenting an award on behalf of DGN in recognition of his works, and co-founder of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria.

“There is no greater honour than one that comes from home. Amb. Lancelot Imasuen is a beacon of light of which we are proud. We’re happy to be associated with this university and partner with you in the Nollywood master class as you have the authentic resource to tap from. The creative head of any production in the film is the director. It is his vision and everything starts and evolves around him. Everything you see is the director’s signature, that’s why it is called the director’s film." He informed.

President Okhai extolled the institution and said, “You have done something very special and unique, and the first to affiliate with an authentic Nollywood guild. By your partnership with DGN, you can be sure that your students will not only be receiving lectures but as a matter of duty be mentored by members of the guild. There are so many universities that have an opportunity to do what you’re doing, but they probably never saw tomorrow.“

The DGN President stressed about the guild establishing student membership to evolve students into practising directors. He emphasized that the DGN Annual Academy Conference on the marriage between town and gown would be implemented soon to afford us the opportunity to tell the genuine Nollywood story with a publication that would be widely accepted globally for the advancement of academics, and for our people to tell the authentic Nollywood story.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ezomonye, in reaction to the DGN President’s remark asserted that the University would sponsor the hosting of the maiden DGN Annual Academic Conference in furtherance of the creative aspect of the University’s goals for academic excellence.

“I will like to remind you, and let you know of our posture that this is the first private university in Nigeria, and in keeping with that first position, we have provided you an opportunity to hosting your first DGN Annual Academic Conference.” He affirmed.

The Vice-Chancellor furthermore officially announced the signing of an MOU with the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN) in collaboration with the Igbinedion University, and requested the guild to present the roasters of the master class presenters and when to commence. He assured the guild of the university providing the facilities and logistics for the classes and will be duly incorporated into the institution’s credit hour.

“Mentors and mentees are the hallmarks of academic settings, and we have to bring them back. As a university upholding creativity as a device of every human developmental quest, the institution deems it fit to expose her students particularly in the department of Theatre Arts, English and Literary Studies and Mass Communication to the world of experiences honoured by the great Nollywood stars who are present. Beyond that, we shall also be expecting certification of skilled programmes.”

Present at the event was Amb. Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Igbinedion University, Prof Mrs Deborah Omotsefe Odejimi, Hon. Zibiri Muhizu Marvelous, Edo State Deputy Governor Representative, Prof. Barclays Ayakoroma, Prof. Irene Isoken Ogunloye, Mr Uchenna Agbo, DGN National Secretary, Perekeme Odon, DGN National PRO, Mr Famous Otakponmwem.

Others include Jeremiah Onoge, Lovebest Ogie-Moses, Nosa Rex, Diamond Okechi, Ino Moses Jonah, PRO AMP, Edo state, Iyobosa Enaibe Osifo, Ameh Imasuen, staff and students of Igbinedion University.

By Perekeme Odon

The serene city of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory came alive on Saturday as the Fugar Progressive Union hosted former Presidential candidate of the Providence Peoples Congress, and newly sworn-in Directors’ Guild of Nigeria’s President, Dr. Victor Okhai, to a grand reception.

The event which took place at the newly opened Paneio Luxury Hotel, Utako District, Abuja on April 24, 2021, saw filmmakers and businessmen from all walks of life converged on the seat of power in solidarity with the people of Edo state who rolled out the drums and red carpet to honour one of their own.

It is a widely held belief that Fugar, the capital city of Etsako Centra Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria knows how to honour a son that has done well. So the people of Fugar in Abuja, who are predominantly into business and academic activities, abandoned their trades and vocations to show appreciation to a man they felt has done well, not only to their community but Edo state and Nigeria.

Explaining the rationale for the celebration, the FPU Abuja Chairman, HRH Chief Jacob Okhaishie stated that it was the Fugar way of publicly saying thank you to a worthy ambassador who exhibited an unparalleled passion to improving the lots of his people. FPU organised the reception to honour and recognise the outstanding leadership capacity and contributions of an accomplished veteran filmmaker and broadcast journalist in the advancement and development of the Nigerian media industry and the world, in broad-spectrum, which demonstrated the love his people have for him.

“Our brother who has been elevated as the President of Directors’ Guild of Nigeria is a man we so much cherish and love in all broadness, hence we organize this grand occasion to give him a befitting honour, so as to open more doors for our teeming youths who will like to emulate him, and he acts as their mentor.” He stated.

The National Executive Council of Fugar Progressive Union, FPU ably represented by the National Secretary-General, Hon. Agabi David Omokhekhai saluted the DGN President who made his community proud when he contested the 2019 presidential election as a candidate of the Providence Peoples Congress. He revealed his exhilaration to celebrate with him his recent elevation as the DGN President and trusted the DGN members did a thorough background check on him as the best candidate.

“We are gathered here to celebrate and honour a distinguished Fugarian who has backpacked the world of his profession, and today elevated to the position as the President, Directors’ Guild of Nigeria. We as Fugarians are always delighted of our own, that’s why whenever any of us is advancing in his field, we are always happy to identify with such a person. We do that to encourage the upcoming youths to see the need to focus so as to give them a good feeling in their assessments.”

Hon. Agabi lauded the guild for electing him as he is a man to be trusted. He however used the occasion to remind the DGN President to always remember where he is coming from and contribute to areas of importance that would be useful to the community; and also use his good offices to always visit Fugar.

“As a community, we are here to celebrate and also remind him of creating lasting employment opportunities for Fugar youths in particular, and Nigeria in the movie industry to curb youth restiveness, since the DGN is a creative guild in the Nigerian entertainment industry. We have a lot of untapped talents out there, and in Fugar our youths are very talented.”

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of a congratulatory message and letter to the DGN President by the National Executive Council of Fugar Progressive Union, FPU in recognition of his service to the community, Edo state, and Nigeria.

“Today you’re here with us, and not just because you merited it, but with special support by our ancestors. Do not forget quickly where you are coming from because we are on the ground to assist whoever wants to come and develop the community. Nevertheless, after thoughtful deliberations, the National Executive Council of Fugar Progressive Union, FPU presents to you a congratulatory message and a letter to let you know we are aware of what you are doing, and completely behind you. However, you need to buckle up and ensure you do the needful.” He said.

The Fugar Progressive Union, Abuja Branch also awarded him an ornamental plaque, granting him an automatic membership of the FPU Abuja Branch.

The National Secretary further hinted to the DGN President on the development of the Fugar historical sites with the main objective to preserve and propagate Fugar history and culture in order to help the present and future generation of Fugarians understand their heritage better.

The elated DGN President expressed appreciation done him, and revealed his disbelief when he heard about being honoured by his kinsmen, but never knew his community had been tracking his progress.

“I am humbled to receive these awards by my people. One thing I have learnt in life is that one can get all the accolades everywhere, but if one is not recognised at home, it’s a waste. It doesn’t matter how many laurels I have received. This means more to me than any other award that I’ve ever received because I never expected it. I will not take it for granted. I feel embarrassed that I’ve not done anything for the community, but I also feel challenged since there is a lot of works to be done.”

Dr. Okhai went on to describe the reception given him as a son of Fugar during his presidential campaign in 2019 that gave him the courage of conviction to face the ordeals ahead and did not let them down. He guaranteed them no malicious rumours and under performance as the DGN President.

“You will not hear anything that would put you to shame under my tenure, but things that you would be proud of.”

He furthermore enlightened them on the importance of the director as the creative head in the film and television business, which shapes society positively through the stories that they tell.

“Everything you see on the screen is the image of the director. We shape the perception people have about us by what we present out there. So there’s a great responsibility that lies on our shoulders.”

An overwhelmed Okhai, while reacting to the honour bestowed him, using the medium as a springboard of his childhood paucities to publicly state his endowments to help his people open a YouTube channel to teach Afenmai language and learn the culture and tradition of our people online.

“It’s a project I will undertake. I will shoot it so our children in the diaspora will not end up like me but start on a good foundation. Our stories have never been told and properly documented. I will be working very closely with the FPU to make sure we get the right information so that we can have something in our archives for future generations yet unborn.”

He additionally promised to produce a high-quality Afenmai language film by engaging the people and shooting it in their community in a way to exposing them. He advised his kinsmen never to discourage their children from engaging in entertainment crafts.

“If I have time, I would want to run a workshop also for people who have the interest to get into the movie industry. It is time to engage our youth meaningfully and productively.” He affirmed.

Nigerian superb visionary award-winning filmmaker and director, Amb Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen who had known President Okhai for over 27 years gave a concealed declaration on how they formed the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria 22 years ago. He described Okhai as unarguably one the most intelligent black men alive today; a brood and kind-hearted man so versed in practically every sphere of life who does not have a feeling of superiority over anyone.

“I want to celebrate Fugar on behalf of my brother, co-founder, and President. We are celebrating this man rather late, but it is better late than never. When I got into the industry 26 years ago, this man warmly embraced me when a lot of people were skeptical of a young wizkid from Benin. He was my consultant when I shot the movie, ‘Yesterday’ in 1997 that propelled me to the national limelight. Since then we have kept a very close relationship. So whenever your community calls you, appreciate it. Let us continue to pray and support him so that history would be made again. His tenure is just a month old, we are already seeing stars.”

The former Director of Protocol, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), quintessence philanthropist, and Grand Patron of FPU, Sir Peter Oshoma Aliu extolled the virtues of DGN President for his outstanding achievements and making the name of Fugar known.

“I want to thank you for the honour of making the name of Fugar known to the world. You should always remember where you come from because people from Fugar don’t believe in godfathers to get to the top, but hard work. I want to ask all of us that’s here to continue to make the name of Fugar great.”

The occasion was attended by an array of dignitaries across the country, and members of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria among who were Engr. Abuking Edebe, Moses E. Moses, Chief Austin Aliu, Mr. Lawal Eghiebada, Mr. Otono Muhammad, Mr. Stanley S. Omoerah, DGN National Secretary, Uchenna Agbo, DGN National Provost, Daniel Chukwueze, DGN Abuja Chairman, Emma Eyaba, DGN Abuja Secretary, Mr. Tola Balogun, Engr. O’Emmanuel Momeh, Assist. Chief Whip (AESIA), Mr. Apel Papel, and Mr. Holy Steve Ogbuefi,

Others include Perekeme Odon, DGN PRO, Mr. Anslem Bello, PRO FPU Abuja, Mr. Emmanuel Asimhi, Fugar Youth President, Mr. Barthy Okhipo, Mr. Festus & Mrs. Mercy Momey, Mr. Oghuma O. Chilinus, and members of the press.

By Perekeme Odon

The serene city of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory came alive on Saturday as the Fugar Progressive Union hosted former Presidential candidate of the Providence Peoples Congress, and newly sworn-in Directors’ Guild of Nigeria’s President, Dr. Victor Okhai, to a grand reception.

The event which took place at the newly opened Paneio Luxury Hotel, Utako District, Abuja on April 24, 2021, saw filmmakers and businessmen from all walks of life converged on the seat of power in solidarity with the people of Edo state who rolled out the drums and red carpet to honour one of their own.

It is a widely held belief that Fugar, the capital city of Etsako Centra Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria knows how to honour a son that has done well. So the people of Fugar in Abuja, who are predominantly into business and academic activities, abandoned their trades and vocations to show appreciation to a man they felt has done well, not only to their community but Edo state and Nigeria.

Explaining the rationale for the celebration, the FPU Abuja Chairman, HRH Chief Jacob Okhaishie stated that it was the Fugar way of publicly saying thank you to a worthy ambassador who exhibited an unparalleled passion to improving the lots of his people. FPU organised the reception to honour and recognise the outstanding leadership capacity and contributions of an accomplished veteran filmmaker and broadcast journalist in the advancement and development of the Nigerian media industry and the world, in broad-spectrum, which demonstrated the love his people have for him.

“Our brother who has been elevated as the President of Directors’ Guild of Nigeria is a man we so much cherish and love in all broadness, hence we organize this grand occasion to give him a befitting honour, so as to open more doors for our teeming youths who will like to emulate him, and he acts as their mentor.” He stated.

The National Executive Council of Fugar Progressive Union, FPU ably represented by the National Secretary-General, Hon. Agabi David Omokhekhai saluted the DGN President who made his community proud when he contested the 2019 presidential election as a candidate of the Providence Peoples Congress. He revealed his exhilaration to celebrate with him his recent elevation as the DGN President and trusted the DGN members did a thorough background check on him as the best candidate.

“We are gathered here to celebrate and honour a distinguished Fugarian who has backpacked the world of his profession, and today elevated to the position as the President, Directors’ Guild of Nigeria. We as Fugarians are always delighted of our own, that’s why whenever any of us is advancing in his field, we are always happy to identify with such a person. We do that to encourage the upcoming youths to see the need to focus so as to give them a good feeling in their assessments.”

Hon. Agabi lauded the guild for electing him as he is a man to be trusted. He however used the occasion to remind the DGN President to always remember where he is coming from and contribute to areas of importance that would be useful to the community; and also use his good offices to always visit Fugar.

“As a community, we are here to celebrate and also remind him of creating lasting employment opportunities for Fugar youths in particular, and Nigeria in the movie industry to curb youth restiveness, since the DGN is a creative guild in the Nigerian entertainment industry. We have a lot of untapped talents out there, and in Fugar our youths are very talented.”

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of a congratulatory message and letter to the DGN President by the National Executive Council of Fugar Progressive Union, FPU in recognition of his service to the community, Edo state, and Nigeria.

“Today you’re here with us, and not just because you merited it, but with special support by our ancestors. Do not forget quickly where you are coming from because we are on the ground to assist whoever wants to come and develop the community. Nevertheless, after thoughtful deliberations, the National Executive Council of Fugar Progressive Union, FPU presents to you a congratulatory message and a letter to let you know we are aware of what you are doing, and completely behind you. However, you need to buckle up and ensure you do the needful.” He said.

The Fugar Progressive Union, Abuja Branch also awarded him an ornamental plaque, granting him an automatic membership of the FPU Abuja Branch.

The National Secretary further hinted to the DGN President on the development of the Fugar historical sites with the main objective to preserve and propagate Fugar history and culture in order to help the present and future generation of Fugarians understand their heritage better.

The elated DGN President expressed appreciation done him, and revealed his disbelief when he heard about being honoured by his kinsmen, but never knew his community had been tracking his progress.

“I am humbled to receive these awards by my people. One thing I have learnt in life is that one can get all the accolades everywhere, but if one is not recognised at home, it’s a waste. It doesn’t matter how many laurels I have received. This means more to me than any other award that I’ve ever received because I never expected it. I will not take it for granted. I feel embarrassed that I’ve not done anything for the community, but I also feel challenged since there is a lot of works to be done.”

Dr. Okhai went on to describe the reception given him as a son of Fugar during his presidential campaign in 2019 that gave him the courage of conviction to face the ordeals ahead and did not let them down. He guaranteed them no malicious rumours and under performance as the DGN President.

“You will not hear anything that would put you to shame under my tenure, but things that you would be proud of.”

He furthermore enlightened them on the importance of the director as the creative head in the film and television business, which shapes society positively through the stories that they tell.

“Everything you see on the screen is the image of the director. We shape the perception people have about us by what we present out there. So there’s a great responsibility that lies on our shoulders.”

An overwhelmed Okhai, while reacting to the honour bestowed him, using the medium as a springboard of his childhood paucities to publicly state his endowments to help his people open a YouTube channel to teach Afenmai language and learn the culture and tradition of our people online.

“It’s a project I will undertake. I will shoot it so our children in the diaspora will not end up like me but start on a good foundation. Our stories have never been told and properly documented. I will be working very closely with the FPU to make sure we get the right information so that we can have something in our archives for future generations yet unborn.”

He additionally promised to produce a high-quality Afenmai language film by engaging the people and shooting it in their community in a way to exposing them. He advised his kinsmen never to discourage their children from engaging in entertainment crafts.

“If I have time, I would want to run a workshop also for people who have the interest to get into the movie industry. It is time to engage our youth meaningfully and productively.” He affirmed.

Nigerian superb visionary award-winning filmmaker and director, Amb Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen who had known President Okhai for over 27 years gave a concealed declaration on how they formed the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria 22 years ago. He described Okhai as unarguably one the most intelligent black men alive today; a brood and kind-hearted man so versed in practically every sphere of life who does not have a feeling of superiority over anyone.

“I want to celebrate Fugar on behalf of my brother, co-founder, and President. We are celebrating this man rather late, but it is better late than never. When I got into the industry 26 years ago, this man warmly embraced me when a lot of people were skeptical of a young wizkid from Benin. He was my consultant when I shot the movie, ‘Yesterday’ in 1997 that propelled me to the national limelight. Since then we have kept a very close relationship. So whenever your community calls you, appreciate it. Let us continue to pray and support him so that history would be made again. His tenure is just a month old, we are already seeing stars.”

The former Director of Protocol, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), quintessence philanthropist, and Grand Patron of FPU, Sir Peter Oshoma Aliu extolled the virtues of DGN President for his outstanding achievements and making the name of Fugar known.

“I want to thank you for the honour of making the name of Fugar known to the world. You should always remember where you come from because people from Fugar don’t believe in godfathers to get to the top, but hard work. I want to ask all of us that’s here to continue to make the name of Fugar great.”

The occasion was attended by an array of dignitaries across the country, and members of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria among who were Engr. Abuking Edebe, Moses E. Moses, Chief Austin Aliu, Mr. Lawal Eghiebada, Mr. Otono Muhammad, Mr. Stanley S. Omoerah, DGN National Secretary, Uchenna Agbo, DGN National Provost, Daniel Chukwueze, DGN Abuja Chairman, Emma Eyaba, DGN Abuja Secretary, Mr. Tola Balogun, Engr. O’Emmanuel Momeh, Assist. Chief Whip (AESIA), Mr. Apel Papel, and Mr. Holy Steve Ogbuefi,

Others include Perekeme Odon, DGN PRO, Mr. Anslem Bello, PRO FPU Abuja, Mr. Emmanuel Asimhi, Fugar Youth President, Mr. Barthy Okhipo, Mr. Festus & Mrs. Mercy Momey, Mr. Oghuma O. Chilinus, and members of the press.

The President, Directors' Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Mr. Victor Okhai has felicitated with Executive Director/CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Alhaji Adedayo Thomas, on his re-appointment for a second term in office by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The President’s congratulatory message was conveyed by Mr. Perekeme Odon, the Public Relations Officer of the Directors' Guild of Nigeria, in Lagos on Wednesday. He said the news of the re-appointment was timely, as everything he has done and accomplished has led to this point, and he truly deserves it.

“You have worked so hard on yourself and created the necessary advantage to convincing others of your potentials and abilities, as it all paid off in the end.”

Okhai extended appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for the re-appointment of the NFVCB ED, the Minister of Information and Culture; and industry stakeholders who worked tirelessly to ensure the return of the visionary leader.

According to him, Adedayo’s versatility, experience at both national and professional engagements, will be further deployed to energize the reforms in the Nigerian creative industry.

He urged Alhaji Adedayo to remain focused and steadfast in pursuing the noble goals of making life better for Nigerians through various development plans, already captured in his first tenure.

The President rejoiced with family, friends, and professional colleagues of Adedayo over the re-appointment.

“We wish you the best of luck in your new tenure. We have no doubt have you excelling in this role, and make everyone proud, as we look forward to even more successful news about you, which you are very much capable of.”

He also commended members of staff and Board of the NFVCB for their consistent support for the journalist, theatre art/critic, Africa Regional Director of Language of Liberty Institute, USA; and former Special Adviser to the Chief Executive Officer/Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and his management team.

While pledging his government's full support to ensure a successful tenure for the NFVCB leadership, Okhai prayed that the Almighty God would continue to strengthen Adedayo and his team for the greater good to the creative industry in Nigeria.

The Chords of his vocals have become a thundering sound to the kingdom of darkness operating in a seven-fold ministry and his anointing can be likened to the scriptural apostles of Peter and Paul.

This is a phenomenon that has continued to shock the world with countless and indescribable signs, wonders, miracles, and tangible testimonies.
Who is this force to be reckoned with that operates in the double portion of his Father in the Lord, Pastor E. A. Adeboye? Who is this kingdom General and Global Sensation that the Almighty God in heaven has given the mandate to break satanic frontiers and bring the plans of the 2nd heaven’s members to nothing?

He is no other than Apostle Dr. Henry Osaro Igunbor, the presiding President of one of the thriving end-time churches on planet earth, The Latter Power Pentecostal Assembly (LAPPA) situated at Bishop Street, Mokola Bus Stop, Egbeda, Lagos State.

The one whose name has continued to evoke trepidation in the ears of the evil ones is the first-born of his family and hail from Ovia South-West in Edo state of Nigeria. He attended Arinze Primary School and Niger College both in Benin City, Edo State. After which he attended Ronik Polytechnic, Lagos and Instituto Di S. Guiseppe, Grottaferrata, Rome, Italy.

Just as the Almighty God had ordained Jeremiah from his mother's womb so is the case of Apostle Dr. Henry Osaro Igunbor who had a solid foundation in The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) from 2000 and was ordained in 2011 by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, where he served for 15 years as a parish pastor and Zonal Youth Pastor.

According to the man on a mission for redemption, “I went to Europe in December 1992 and joined Christ Apostolic Church of God Mission International Incorporated in Rome as a pioneering member with headquarter in Benin, Edo state in 1998 which is one of the first Pentecostal churches to open a branch in Europe. In 1999, I came back to Nigeria and later started worshipping with The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) at Magodo Estate, Lagos in 2000. I traveled back to Europe and joined a parish of the RCCG in Rome called City of Victory under Pastor Adi Agomoh, who also baptized me by immersion”. He stated.

In 2005 while he was playing the bass guitar on an invitation as an itinerary session musician at a church service with the Christ Apostolic Church of God Mission International Incorporated in Rome, he met Prophet Elijah Iwuji of blessed memory confirmed his calling unto the Lord. After reluctantly accepting the message, God arrested and brought him back to Nigeria in 2006.
He successfully resigned from the RCCG after being blessed with a sent forth prayer of love and joy to begin a new path where he started his ministerial sojourn to becoming a General Overseer.

His famous quote, "Christianity without result is an insult" has been manifested countless times in The LAPPA HOUSE and every of his ministrations even internationally.

On April 22, 2015, his life turned around as he journeyed into the world of leadership, fame, and spotlight in the ministry. Almost six years after, God has used him mightily to cause wonders that crushed scientific studies by reviving nine dead bodies back to life, six mad people restored their senses, several terminal diseases healed, paralysis crumbled, genotypes changed from AS to AA, child delivery within seconds, marriages restored, financial breakthrough testimonies, captives set free and lots more. All these are in the public domain and church database. He is a father to all and has been able to groom a lot of people under him with pastoral care and love.

He is an author of several books, and recently wrote a book on warfare with details on how to conquer the enemies titled, "The Evil Gate", which is available on amazon.com.

The legendary Edo state born preacher attended several seminary and theological schools, and holds a Diploma in Theology, World Crusaders Bible College, Lagos, Redeemed Christian Bible College, Lagos (PGDip Theology), School of Disciples of RCCG, Lagos (PGDip Theology), and Dunamis Christian University, Lagos (MTh. Theology & DTh. Theology).

Apostle Henry Igunbor is a certified healing and deliverance minister with a whole lot of testimonies to his name, through Jesus Christ as he preaches the Word of God with all audacity and fearlessness.

Dr. Igunbor is the Convener of the famous "MOMENT OF SOLUTION (DIVINE ENCOUNTER)” programme that happens every Thursday, 7:30 am at his church, and also the lead minister at the FAITH HEALING & DELIVERANCE ACADEMY.

He is currently the Director for Inter-ministerial affair, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Egbeda chapter, Lagos State.

He is happily married to his heartthrob, best friend, and fellow Overseer, Pastor Mrs. Grace Osaro-Igunbor. They are blessed with a daughter, Miracle Osaro-Igunbor.

By Perekeme Odon

The rich man is a fool who dies without arranging his affairs to assure that his wealth does well during his lifetime and after his passing. The wealthier you become, the more you are giving to others. It's a rewarding way to live.

We have heard it said before that nothing could keep a good man down. Certainly, nothing can keep God's man down, for the good man knows no limitation of good and no hindrance in his expression of God’s works to others. What is there in the nature of genuine goodness that is irrepressible, unsinkable, and indomitable?

The difference between a rich man and a wealthy man is like the tiny line that separates love and hate. A lot of people don’t realize that being wealthy and rich are similar in relation to humans. Closing on both shows that wealth is not only the accumulation of assets but valuable possession and abundant supply.

A rich man thinks he is smart, but he is a parasite with no intention to create wealth and lacks the ability to help others. His main interest is the possession of money by skimming the system others have created.

This Benin-born Nigerian who journeyed from entrepreneur to becoming a quintessence philanthropist per excellence, shrewd investor, trained commercial pilot, and obviously one of Nigeria’s quiet and self-effacing billionaires was recognised at the 2020 World Day Against Human Trafficking by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking In Persons (NAPTIP) as its anti-human trafficking hero.

The webinar event with the theme ‘Break The Chain’ saw him as an outstanding personality who has contributed to the fight against human trafficking in Edo state; furthermore wants the fight sustained and strategies used by relevant agencies reviewed and updated to meet up with global technological advancement.

According to the NAPTIP, “This man availed himself of the opportunity in marking his 60th birthday on the 16th of February 2018 to organise a public lecture on ‘Youth migration, consequences and current realities’

He was born in Benin City, Edo State on January 7 1958, into a privileged family of a reverend clergyman, teacher, and community leader, and later grew up to be a household name and an acknowledged benefactor to numerous people as a prominent entrepreneur who is renowned for his philanthropic works like Warren Buffet, Bill & Melinda Gates, Gordon, and Betty Moore, Mo Ibrahim of Sudan, Jeff and Mackenzie Bezos and Michael Bloomberg in Edo states who have found him as God’s help by putting smiles on their faces through arts, academics and profitable empowerment with no media hypes or reportage. The axiom: charity begins at home is depicted by his respect for cultural values.

He has distinguished himself with his uncommon display of love compared to many wealthy Nigerians who prefer to live in their comfort zones and not give back to society especially to stem human trafficking, which is a threat to human dignity.

Prior to his retirement at the age of 30 as a pilot in 1988; like the proverbial palm tree planted by the riverside, he weathered the Nigerian business storm to conquer challenges in all scopes of air, sea, and land where he served favourably as board chairman and director on innumerable establishments, traversing several business sectors like the agro-allied, telecommunication, power, real estate, petroleum, and banking industries.

In 2012, the American Congress recognized him as Africa Titan for his contributions to Niger Delta in arts and culture with the premiere of the Hollywood movie ‘Black November’ directed by Jetta Amata that he independently bankrolled to raise a voice for the Niger Delta dilemma his Wells Entertainments Ltd.

The man, whose laudable contributions to peace, progress, and visible development of the economy of Edo state cannot be denied, believes the future of Nigeria is in agriculture sold his private jet to invest in a farming project. In March 2016, he established and unveiled a $750 million; 9,000-hectare (27,000-acre) farm intended to create 85,000 jobs in Edo State, youth empowerment, and foreign export.

In 2018, the highly technological advancement project produced its first indigenous fruit of the farm with an estimated tomatoes production of 4, 300 tones per year, and projected revenue of $6 million per year in 2018.

On December 15, 2018, history was made as he officially inaugurated the surreally exquisitely furnished five-star luxury hospitality hotel, majestically situated in the plush of the highbrow Asokoro District of Abuja to combat unemployment and provide an opportunity for fun-seekers, local and international guests that desire outstanding hotel service. He admitted his dream was to replicate such projects across cities of the world so that Nigeria could have a hospitality brand to compete with the likes of Transcorp Hilton and other global brands.

Entrepreneurs apply the same rigour and disciplines from the world of commerce to the charitable sector, which suggests there is in fact a science to giving at this level that can be replicated and learned from.

Philanthropy is a broad conceptual term that is fuzzy around the edges and sounds rather grand. But, this man has helped redefine what it means to champion a cause one personally cares about to encapsulate how philanthropy is practiced today and reclaim the word for a modern world.

Charitable foundations created by this wealthy man often provide the financial muscle to empower great social and environmental causes. The exploitation of the poor may bring riches, but giving value brings happiness and fulfilment of true wealth. By giving more value than he receives, success has become a measure of the part of his life.

According to him, one doesn’t have to be wealthy to be a philanthropist to help create a better world and make a difference. A lot can be learned from this practised entrepreneur and philanthropic man against some democratized super-rich individuals who might be hard to reach and do little or nothing before the cameras. The power of entrepreneurial philanthropy lies in empowering others to help them and seize opportunities for betterment advancement.

When a society is filled with wealthy people, there is a narrow gap between the have and have not, but when it is filled with rich people, the rich will get richer in the name of inflation that eventually leads to a breakdown of society. If the philanthropic potential of the population in Nigeria is to be realized, government, charities, and businesses need to understand giving as a life-long journey, rather than as a series of unrelated acts.

This man is not like the rich man who makes himself rich and others poor, but a wealthy good man and employer of labour who creates riches and income for others in abundance as his philanthropy speaks loud and volumes and has become a reference point in admonition and encouragement.

His spontaneous benevolent act was witnessed recently as he awarded a scholarship to Master Moses Oseghale, a student of Auchi Polytechnic who designed an aircraft to study aeronautical engineering abroad; and also transformed the life of a woman, an itinerant service supplier N3m to purchase a truck to enhance her business. This happened when she came to supply drinks bought from her and her hired supply trucks broke down. On the instant, he once again displayed his benevolence by giving money to buy her own truck to further enhance her business. This is true wealth in humanity.

There are different perceptions of philanthropy associated with the super-wealthy, but this prominent son of the Benin Kingdom whose love and trust have inspired generously and encompassed the broad concept gestures of benevolence to the lives of students, youths, dressmakers, bakers, tailors, shoemakers, market women, most prominently Artiste of all Arts, filmmakers, musicians, cultural groups, fine Artist etc, and as many that have come his way thus encouraged young people to draw inspiration from his story and dare things beyond them.

His motivated pervasive influence within the field of philanthropy stems more than anything from his giveaways to charity is often revealed in his personal experiences and personal values to people.

It is a fact that just recently, he joined exclusive benevolent sons and daughters of Edo State to bequeath generously to the Edo state COVID-19 relief campaign fund.

He is a native speaker of the Edo language and a fluent speaker of English. He believes the purpose of our lives is to be happy and stands for the humanitarian concept that stated life without love is like a tree without blossoms or fruit.

On October 2, 2014, the Bini traditional ruler of Edo state, the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa gifted Captain Hosa with the ‘Traditional Beads’. The bead is given to sons and daughters of Benin who have distinguished themselves and have been a source of pride.

Captain Dr, Hosa Wells Okunbo is a man with infrequent courage who has made us reflect our belief that by being generous, leaders can substantially improve society, their businesses, and themselves with increasingly effective giving.

He is a happy father of 11 children and the husband of Nosa. He is my benefactor and Chairman, Board of Directors, Wells Entertainment Ltd.


A rich man thinks he is smart, but he is a parasite with no intention to create wealth and lacks the ability to help others. His main interest is the possession of money by skimming the system others have created.

This Benin-born Nigerian who journeyed from entrepreneur to becoming a quintessence philanthropist per excellence, shrewd investor, trained commercial pilot, and obviously one of Nigeria’s quiet and self-effacing billionaires was recognised at the 2020 World Day Against Human Trafficking by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking In Persons (NAPTIP) as its anti-human trafficking hero.

The webinar event with the theme ‘Break The Chain’ saw him as an outstanding personality who has contributed to the fight against human trafficking in Edo state; furthermore wants the fight sustained and strategies used by relevant agencies reviewed and updated to meet up with global technological advancement.

According to the NAPTIP, “This man availed himself of the opportunity in marking his 60th birthday on the 16th of February 2018 to organise a public lecture on ‘Youth migration, consequences and current realities’

He is a household name and an acknowledged benefactor to numerous people as a prominent entrepreneur who is renowned for his philanthropic works like Warren Buffet, Bill & Melinda Gates, Gordon, and Betty Moore, Mo Ibrahim of Sudan, Jeff and Mackenzie Bezos and Michael Bloomberg in Edo states who have found him as God’s help by putting smiles on their faces through arts, academics and profitable empowerment with no media hypes or reportage. The axiom: charity begins at home is depicted by his respect for cultural values.

He has distinguished himself with his uncommon display of love compared to many wealthy Nigerians who prefer to live in their comfort zones and not give back to society especially to stem human trafficking, which is a threat to human dignity.

Born in Benin City, Edo State on January 7, 1958, into a privileged family of a reverend clergyman, teacher, and community leader.

Prior to his retirement at the age of 30 as a pilot in 1988; like the proverbial palm tree planted by the riverside, he weathered the Nigerian business storm to conquer challenges in all scopes of air, sea, and land where he served favourably as board chairman and director on innumerable establishments, traversing several business sectors like the agro-allied, telecommunication, power, real estate, petroleum, and banking industries.

In 2012, the American Congress recognized him as Africa Titan for his contributions to Niger Delta in arts and culture with the premiere of the Hollywood movie ‘Black November’ directed by Jetta Amata that he independently bankrolled to raise a voice for the Niger Delta dilemma his Wells Entertainments Ltd.

The man, whose laudable contributions to peace, progress, and visible development of the economy of Edo state cannot be denied, believes the future of Nigeria is in agriculture sold his private jet to invest in a farming project. In March 2016, he established and unveiled a $750 million; 9,000-hectare (27,000-acre) farm intended to create 85,000 jobs in Edo State, youth empowerment, and foreign export.

In 2018, the highly technological advancement project produced its first indigenous fruit of the farm with an estimated tomatoes production of 4, 300 tones per year, and projected revenue of $6 million per year in 2018.

On December 15, 2018, history was made as he officially inaugurated the surreally exquisitely furnished five-star luxury hospitality hotel, majestically situated in the plush of the highbrow Asokoro District of Abuja to combat unemployment and provide an opportunity for fun-seekers, local and international guests that desire outstanding hotel service. He admitted his dream was to replicate such projects across cities of the world so that Nigeria could have a hospitality brand to compete with the likes of Transcorp Hilton and other global brands.

Entrepreneurs apply the same rigour and disciplines from the world of commerce to the charitable sector, which suggests there is in fact a science to giving at this level that can be replicated and learned from.

Philanthropy is a broad conceptual term that is fuzzy around the edges and sounds rather grand. But, this man has helped redefine what it means to champion a cause one personally cares about to encapsulate how philanthropy is practiced today and reclaim the word for a modern world.

Charitable foundations created by this wealthy man often provide the financial muscle to empower great social and environmental causes. The exploitation of the poor may bring riches, but giving value brings happiness and fulfilment of true wealth. By giving more value than he receives, success has become a measure of the part of his life.

According to him, one doesn’t have to be wealthy to be a philanthropist to help create a better world and make a difference. A lot can be learned from this practised entrepreneur and philanthropic man against some democratized super-rich individuals who might be hard to reach and do little or nothing before the cameras. The power of entrepreneurial philanthropy lies in empowering others to help them and seize opportunities for betterment advancement.

When a society is filled with wealthy people, there is a narrow gap between the have and have not, but when it is filled with rich people, the rich will get richer in the name of inflation that eventually leads to a breakdown of society. If the philanthropic potential of the population in Nigeria is to be realized, government, charities, and businesses need to understand giving as a life-long journey, rather than as a series of unrelated acts.

This man is not like the rich man who makes himself rich and others poor, but a wealthy good man and employer of labour who creates riches and income for others in abundance as his philanthropy speaks loud and volumes and has become a reference point in admonition and encouragement.

His spontaneous benevolent act was witnessed recently as he awarded a scholarship to Master Moses Oseghale, a student of Auchi Polytechnic who designed an aircraft to study aeronautical engineering abroad; and also transformed the life of a woman, an itinerant service supplier N3m to purchase a truck to enhance her business. This happened when she came to supply drinks bought from her and her hired supply trucks broke down. On the instant, he once again displayed his benevolence by giving money to buy her own truck to further enhance her business. This is true wealth in humanity.

There are different perceptions of philanthropy associated with the super-wealthy, but this prominent son of the Benin Kingdom whose love and trust have inspired generously and encompassed the broad concept gestures of benevolence to the lives of students, youths, dressmakers, bakers, tailors, shoemakers, market women, most prominently Artiste of all Arts, filmmakers, musicians, cultural groups, fine Artist etc, and as many that have come his way thus encouraged young people to draw inspiration from his story and dare things beyond them.

His motivated pervasive influence within the field of philanthropy stems more than anything from his giveaways to charity is often revealed in his personal experiences and personal values to people.

It is a fact that just recently, he joined exclusive benevolent sons and daughters of Edo State to bequeath generously to the Edo state COVID-19 relief campaign fund.

He is a native speaker of the Edo language and a fluent speaker of English. He believes the purpose of our lives is to be happy and stands for the humanitarian concept that stated life without love is like a tree without blossoms or fruit.

On October 2, 2014, the Bini traditional ruler of Edo state, the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa gifted Captain Hosa with the ‘Traditional Beads’. The bead is given to sons and daughters of Benin who have distinguished themselves and have been a source of pride.

Captain Dr, Hosa Wells Okunbo is a man with infrequent courage who has made us reflect our belief that by being generous, leaders can substantially improve society, their businesses, and themselves with increasingly effective giving.

He is a happy father of 11 children and the husband of Nosa. He is my benefactor and Chairman, Board of Directors, Wells Entertainment Ltd.

By Perekeme Odon

Enugu state born creative and talented filmmaker, Onyebuchi Moses Okechukwu is a trained Nigerian filmmaker who has come a very long way to stamp his authority in the Nigerian film industry.

The former Army Day Primary and Secondary school, Enugu student who was discovered at Hotel Presidential, Enugu have been in the Nigerian film and entertainment industry for over 20 years with lots of credits to his name.

Onyi, as friends and colleagues popularly call him joined Nollywood as an actor in 1998 on the set of ‘King Jaja of Opobo’ in Enugu where he played the role of a warrior to the antagonist, Odum Egege acted by veteran actor, Columbus Iroasanga.

Under the watchful eyes of professionals around him, he started learning the ropes of pre-production and production as a production assistant in 1999 which led to his been part of the ‘Miss World’ technical crew in 2002 held in Nigeria.

In 2003 he got recruited into the Kingsley Ogoro owned Carvers’ studio for further training to further his quest for excellence and professionalism in cinematography and filmmaking in totality. While at Carvers studio as a trainee in 2003, he became an assistant cameraman in the hit movie, ‘Osuofia In London’, and was part of the 2002 Miss World Camera crew held in Abuja, Nigeria.

After graduating from Carvers’ studio, Onyi hit the road and launched his first shot as a cinematographer with the movie “Jackie Philips’, starring Ibinabo Fiberesima, Mike Ezuruonye and directed by Ernest Obi.

He has gone ahead to shoot more than 150 plenty of commercially successful and fans-favorite films in Nigeria and Africa which include ‘Sister’s Enemy, Desperate Ladies, Ikenga, Perfect Stranger, 7 Rules of Money, Royal War, Onyeoma CY, Powerful Civilian, Jadon, Patriot, Broken Tears, Tattoo Girls, Marriage Planner, Pride of Princess, Operation Niger Delta, Room Service, 24th July, Pregnant Couple, Irreplaceable, Pay Day, Scorpion God, Palace Maid, Mandela, Before Ordination, Costly Mistake, Under Control, All I have, Do Me I Do You, Dark Sheep, Blindfold, Deadly Deceit, Light Out, Royal Honour, Amnesty, The Shepherd, Costly Mistake, Dying Rose, Widow’s Heart, Player’s Heart, London Fever’’ and many more.

He was part of the cinematography team in Tarila Thompson’s big-screen movie titled ‘In The Creek’, featuring Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Van Vicker, Patience Uzorkwu and other international cast and crewmembers.

The Nkanu native and Obi Anazuonwu Secondary School, Onitsha, Anambra state alumnus have worked with lots of Nollywood and few Hollywood producers and directors to learn the art of film production with various avant-garde concepts and ideas. However, since the challenges for great family and domestic films were not forthcoming, he decided to traverse into full-scale production in 2015 with a registered name, MOZZYVA PICTURES as a producer in the Nigerian make-believe industry.

Onyebuchi and his MOZZYVA PICTURES has over a few years of emergence produced exhilarating films like ‘Love Triangle’, ‘Not Good Enough’, ‘6 Months Madness’, ‘Ochuko, Caught In Between’, ‘Dark Heart’, ‘Shaded Night’, ‘The Devil Within’, ‘The Wrecker’, ‘Priceless’, ‘Odenigbo’ and many others.

Onyi furthermore shot the television commercial of ‘Viju Milk’, Nigerian Breweries Limited ‘Star’s Shine Shine Bobo’ television show, Obudu Mountain Race, 2007 Star Mega Jam and numerous music videos ranging from way back Rymzo’s ‘Rock and Roll’, Chief Osita Osadebe’s ‘Kedu America’ and lots of commercials.

Speaking with PTV News, the filmmaker hinted that, “I am a passionate music and film lover right from my childhood. I believe in using film as a tool for social change if given any opportunity. As a member of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), I want to strive to see that we take our industry to a higher level to educate, entertain and inform our society and the world through films for a better change.” He affirmed.

He is a member of the Cinematographers Society of Nigerian (CSN) and the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) respectively.

By Perekeme Odon

Like him or loathe his work, it's about time we came to appreciate the brilliance of Chukwudi John Ejiofor, the variable writer, producer and director whose entry into the Nigerian motion picture industry spanned years, and bridges the long-standing celebrated innovates in Nollywood.

A director with a knack for inventive storytelling and eye-wowing visuals with an immense variety of genres who positioned with the great traditional movie directors of the late '90s and '2000s to date.

Born on February 5 in Enugu State, and bred up in Enugu and Anambra states, the technically brilliant and a seeming workaholic Awka South, Anambra state filmmaker sojourned into the make-believe business in the late 1990s and has caved an abrasion for himself. Apart from his commendable scope as a director, Chuks played an unvaryingly significant role as a reformer for scriptwriting on the business front.

He attended Trinity Secondary School, Apapa Lagos in 1980/84, and graduated from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra state in 1996 where he studied Business Administration.

After graduation, providence came calling and he unearthed himself working with front-line veteran filmmaker and producer, Ojiofor Ezeanyanche largely known as OJ, who accrued fortune from filmmaking in the early days of Nollywood, whose movies include ‘Igodo’, ‘Izaga’, ‘Ashes to Ashes’, ‘The Wind’, ‘Only Love’, ‘Egg of Life’, ‘My Love’, ‘Two Rats’ among others which his production outfit became known for.

According to Mr. Ejiofor, “I had a passion for movies and entertainment while growing up. So after graduation, I started working with OJ PRODUCTIONS’, one of the most prominent film-producing production studios back then; and from there it all started for me to date”. He stated.

After a long training career with OJ Productions, Chuks realized his deep-rooted dream which he yearned would lend him the clout and inventiveness to make movies his own way without the big-studio interference he had grieved for many years, would manifest.

The delightfully confident Chuks made his first directorial debut in 2011 with ‘Mystery Of Destiny’ starring Kenneth Okonkwo, Stephanie Okereke, and Beverly Naya. His excluding fear of failure or making mistakes ascertained him to be an incredibly successful inspiration with the release of his debut film.

“I actually passed through the ranks and files, from property management to production manager. I did continuity and producing movies for different production houses after I left OJ Productions, before embarking on the euphoric journey of screenwriting and directing, which I am very much at home. Being a film director is an exciting and stressful job. Family life is extremely important to me, so I am concerned about it. The overall experiments and effects of my venturing into film-making are simply in the service of touching viewers". He acknowledged.

In his 25-year career in film-making, Chuks Ejiofor has written and directed for Mozzyva Pictures, Multimedia Ltd, Eno Glo Entertainment, and demonstrated proficiently on making films about the importance of family, morals and overcoming adversity with distinctive gifted actors deeper than they look, even though recent efforts have seen him trying to diversify, because it’s always fascinating when a director leaps from one genre to another.

For a supposed director of domestic films, he's more interested in the world kinfolk. Adding to his already dynamic career and developing the writing trademarks of family stories that place him at the top of the screenwriting game of realistic storytelling, twisting wit with ease, Chuks, one of the least well-known names on the list, but a writer and director who has steadily refined his own gentle, bittersweet style wrote and screenplay 'Love Triangle', 'Ajo Umume' (Igbo), 'Mystery of Destiny', 'Ihe Omimi' (Igbo), Dark Heart,

Operating mostly in family issues with simplicity and compassion, Chuks is delectably one of the most family perceptive directors in the business, with an unerring eye for the stories that matter.

His credits as a director include the romantic family drama ‘Love Triangle (2015) starring Michael Godson, Yvonne Jegede, Mary Lazarus, Devil In Red (2015) starring Yul Edochie, Chinyere Wilfred, Daniel K. Daniel, and Angel Ufome, Dark Heart (2017), Terrible Moment’, starring Mike Ezuruonye, Tonto Dike, Karma (2018), Discrimination (2018), Stab (2018), starring Ruth Kadiri, Wole Ojo, Maureen Okpoko, Roselyn Ngissah, and Roxy Antar, Open Memory (2018), The Deceit (2018), Vendetta (2019, Ajo Umume (Igbo 2020), ‘Ihe Omimi’ (Igbo 2020), and many more.

By Perekeme Odon

The National Film and Video Censors Board Stakeholder Consultative Engagement with Guild / Association heads and representatives in the Nigerian motion picture industry on conversations focused on a new policy direction to further advance the sector was an accomplished welcome development.

It was the first meeting of its kind where the content creators, practitioners, and distributors were called for dialogue to process and absorbed on the conditions for successful collaboration.

The meeting chaired by the NFVCB Executive Director / CEO, Alhaji Adedayo Thomas held at the Ikoyi office of the Board on Monday, February 10, 2020, called for discussions on the revival of fundamental prevailing regulations and policies in order to advance the sector and enhance its robustness with the outcome of effective findings and implementation of the Board’s proposal to ensure coordinated response operation by practitioners.

Speaking on the essence of the meeting, the Censor’s Board, Executive Director, Adedayo Thomas welcomed and appreciated everyone presents for coming within a short notice and emphasized stakeholders knowing certain rules in the constitution that we have refused to obey.
“I didn’t want to put it as an emergency meeting but it calls for that. There are some rules in the constitution that we have decided to shun or be soft on them because we have to build confidence and create an enabling environment for the industry.” He informed practitioners to be very aware of the placement of the Nigerian movie industry in the world and the needful needs to be done.

The CEO appreciates the inputs of what the cinema has done by bringing global recognition to see Nigeria as a market place in the film industry by expanding the market in terms of rating and publicity. “ I will keep saying it that the cinemas are the only set of platforms that are providing us with correct figures, exposing us further than what we think we can be, if not by now we would still be relying on the hope of ‘Living In Bondage.”

Alhaji Thomas said the DVD / VCD market is still number one and one of the major contributors to the economy, but they do not have the statistics because of their markets overshoot that of cinemas, and keeps wondering why people criticize cinema when there are other available channels.

The CEO stated that practitioners exerting their rights to freedom of association will not be pressured into joining a particular body or guild, and would have the privilege to decide on which registered guild or association to belong to. “We urgently need to address the proliferation of the industry by those that have no business with the industry that are springing up, hence the need to identify strictly those who are in the industry. NFVCB is the only regulatory body of the film industry in Nigeria. There is going to come to a time that we need to recognize the guilds and associations because we have over 200 guilds.“

He signaled an advance warning that by the second quarter, a yearly Verification and Documentation fee shall be requested from all Guilds/Associations that are willing to be recognized by the Board. “All recognized guild and association, no matter how minimum is going to pay a token fee to the Board. We also need to be supplied those who distribute under them.”

He said a lot of producers give content to unregistered distributors that abound everywhere. That is why everyone must belong to a guild or association before their works can be distributed, and the only recognized association is the Cinema Exhibition Association of Nigeria (CEAN). He advised executive producers to be part of CEAN if not their works would not be approved for distribution.

He went on to say independent executive producers must have a distributor before coming to censor their films because you cannot stand as an individual to distribute your content, even if the constitution does not compel anyone to associate with any guild. “It is the same constitution that gave birth to us for professional reason. You can be an independent executive producer, but when you censor your film, we can only approve it with the clause of ‘Not to be distributed.”

One of the successes of the NFVCB CEO is the ideas and principles of always conferring with the stakeholders of the Nigerian movie industry by having them involved in decision-making processes, which he perceived as giving back the industry to the rightful owners, majorly the guilds/associations’ heads.

Alhaji Thomas apologized to any shortcomings experienced by stakeholders and practitioners by the Censor Board in terms of censorship and delivery and advised producers to always ask for a certificate of censorship on any of their films, rather than forging one for distributorship.

“You must not collect any letter from the NFVCB but a certificate of censorship and distribution. There are a few distribution outlets I visited that are sabotaging this country by airing uncensored contents, and we are going to go after them. The broadcast house needs to confirm from the NFVCB before airing any new content and most suppliers of contents to unregistered distributors are not even members of your guilds and associations.”

The climax of the meeting reached following conclusions drawn in line with the ‘National Film and Video Censors Board Enabling Law Act, 1993 CAP N40 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004 and Regulations 2008.’

He divulged that inasmuch as we want the industry to grow, the little laws should be obeyed. The NVFCB cannot be everywhere at the same time. Trailers should be submitted to the Board earlier before the premiere or release date. “No foreign film is allowed in this country, except providing us with all the details for us to classify them. What goes on YouTube and WhatsApp is difficult to control. Trailers of films classified 18 or higher shall not be broadcast on a television station or any other station before 10 pm unless approved by the Board. Posters advertising films classified 18 or higher shall not be placed near schools and other places which carter for persons below the age of 18.”

He decisively resolved that the Board would hold Guilds and Associations heads responsible for all breaches, violations, and infringements of the laws and regulations governing the industry. All Guilds and Associations should channel their protests or complaints authoritatively to the Board in writing with acknowledged evidence as may be relevant. Guilds/Associations should also assist the Board in pinpointing and reporting both internal and external trespassers and their despicable accomplishments through available channels with the Office of the Executive Director.

The Chairman, Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) Mr. Patrick Lee commended the efforts of Adedayo Thomas-led Censor’s Board for recognizing CEAN and pledged to submit trailers and posters as quickly as possible for proper classifications to be done. He furthermore promised to always provide content that is properly authorized. He beseeched with the Board to look into the additional pressure and burdens on the finances of every guild/association to be paid to the Board, and hope it should be something affordable.

Some of the Stakeholders that were at the meeting include President, Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Mr. Ralph Nwadike, Group Executive Director, FilmOne, Moses Babatope (CEAN), President ANCOP, Mrs. Daisy Madu-Chikwendu, National Theatre PRO, Ogundele Steve, NANTAP President, Israel Eboh, NANTAP Lagos Chairman, Makinde Adeniran, CDGN Lagos State Chairman, Mrs. Joy Osawaru-Akinyemi, President Screenwriters Guild of Nigeria (SWGN), Yinka Ogun, AGN Lagos State Chairman, Moji Oyetayo, Bukola Thomas (AGN Lagos), ANTP President, Adewale, Adeoye Elesho, Babatunde Thomason (ANTP), and National Treasurer AMP, Amb. Queen Blessing Ebigieson.

Others include Bukola Thomas, Happiness Erike (NFVCB Lagos), Clement Ogbo (NFVCB Lagos), Opeyemi Ajayi (Genesis/CEAN), Yemi Amadu (TAMPAN), National PRO CDGN, Leo Omoseebi, National PRO DGN, Perekeme Odon, President Akwa / Cross, Umoh Umoh, Secretary-General, SWGN, Tari West, Kemi Adekomi (AGN), Thessy Whyte (Akwa/Cross), PRO FVPMN Lagos State, Pascal Ezenwa, Emeka S. Aluah (FVPMN), Dayo Pelumi (NFVCB Lagos), Mary Edem Ephraim (Homeland films), Jide Ologel (EMCOAN), Adekunle Ojo (Genesis), and scores of others.

By Perekeme Odon

It was physically relaxing, fun strengthening, extraordinarily spiritually energizing and refreshing to see Christians commit themselves to assemble together at a Christian conference in light of the priority to stay strong in Christ and the example of the Scriptures and church history. As leaders, our perspective shapes our priorities, and our influence is formed through thousands of daily choices.

For two days, Christians nationwide congregated communally to share the experience of respite and reunion, connection to something greater than us, and to foster change for our families, society and the Church.

The APOSTOLIC ROUND TABLE Conference as we know it today, began with a God-inspired vision a few years ago and has arguably become the largest proactive Christian conference in Nigeria in an annual two-day experience of energy, excitement, and passion, entrenched in the cause of Christ hosted by The Voice Of His Word Ministries led by Apostle Dr. Bolaji. O. Akinyemi, in conjunction with the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Christian Association Of Nigeria (CAN), The Gracious Church, Pastored by Pastor Kayode Adeshoga, The Trinity House, Pastored by, Pastor Ituah Ighodalor and in collaboration with PVCNaija was held on January 13 and 14, 2020.

The event designed for Christians ecumenism over the last few years of its existence is a life-transforming experience to consolidate the efforts of the Nigerian Christians in leadership, politics, governance, etc.

The most comprehensive leadership-equipping conference of the year convened by noted Christian leader, Apostle Dr. Bolaji O. Akinyemi with an incredible line-up of Christ-centered leaders, speakers and leading voices in faith, ministry, and theology with the depth of wisdom selected from across the country was set out to deliver information on the most relevant topics who provided insight and clarity on several contemporary topics plaguing the Church today, training leaders to operate in Bible-based principles and cooperating with one another to further the gospel and Christian fellowship.

Renowned for being one of the most preemptive and innovative conference of its kind, this year’s event with the theme, “THE SPIRIT OF LAGOS: A NEW GENERATION” was held at the Living Rock Gospel Church, No 1, Tinuade Adepegba Street, Off Agbe Road, Abule-Egba, Lagos state brought together a wide audience of artists, National Church leaders, members of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), scholars, students, worship leaders and other interested worshipers from various denominations around the country for a time of fellowship, worship, and learning together, seeking to develop their gifts, encourage each other and renew their commitment to the full ministry of the church.

The Northern Nigeria community of Christians were not left out, the keynote of the Conference, titled: LAGOS; An Ideology beyond regions and religions was ceded to Professor Adamu Baikie, the first professor of education from northern Nigeria and President Congress of Northern Nigeria Christians, Baba at 88years old sent an able emissary in his Vice, Ambassador Steven Bangoji, who incidentally is also a board member of Southern Kaduna Peoples Union. He unequivocally stated the desire of CNNC to work with ART to enthroned LAGOS; Leaders After God's Own Spirit at all levels of leadership in the country.

The Lagos State PFN Secretary, Rev. Toyin Kehinde, and Bishop Moses A. Idris chaired the activities of the morning and evening sessions respectively that motivated the kick off with an opening intercession by Prophet Sam Osinloye and administered over to Evangelist Amara Music Director, Agbado Oke-Odo Province who took the Praise and Worship.

Other distinguished speakers that impressively inspired the sessions were Dr. Joe Ighalo who spoke on ‘12 Tribe, One Nation’ and counseled religious leaders never to chase after politicians seeking relevance. Rev. Isaac Imasuen instructed Christians on the intercession of unity on how they should be one, while Rev. Olatunde A. Soyemi rounded off the half of the morning session by thanking participants for coming.

The morning session was opened when Dr. Henry Obidi revolved the barrel to orate ‘Entertainment and Public Narrative’, and everyone went enthusiastic when he sermonized on the emotional state of being and entertainment controlling the emotions of people. He accentuated upfront to remind men of God present that all the use of posture and bodily movements for effect while preaching the gospel on stage are all entertainment; and recommended for the Church to come together and grow an entertainment network bigger than any other corporation or political party they can assume.

Then came the moment with Apostle Gabriel Amedu of Benue state who expounded on the ‘Raising Kingdom Seeds With Purposeful Spirit for Leadership’ by letting participants know that, “The Church is a formal social religious state like a nation and country and an informal social-political state set up and managed a social-political governance of the affairs of men.” He frowned at the silence of our fathers and the Church in the South West and not raising their voices whenever disaster strikes.

Other notable speakers at the Conference are, Pastor Kayode Adeshoga, Pastor Danjuma Tafawa Balewa, Rev. Fola Olusanya, Pastor Ituah Ighodalor who was proficiently represented by Pastor Yemi Edward on the topic-‘There Is A Captain; Head Hunting And Training For LAGOS’, instructed Christians and the Church to play a significant role in the affairs of politics in Nigeria and not to sit down and condemn their leaders.

The second day of the conference witnessed the entry of the President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rev. Dr. Felix Omobude, Lagos State Chairmen of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Olushola Ore, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Dr. Alex Bamgbola and other renowned Christian leaders like Pastor Biodun who represented Professor Vincent Anigbogu, the Director-General of Institute of National Transformation, he educated Christians on the need to cultivate emotional capacity.

The Lagos State CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Alex Bamgbola acknowledged and appreciated the presence of everyone. “I appreciate our father who is seated here humbly, and the man whom the Lord has given this vision, Apostle Dr. Bolaji Akinyemi. May the Lord continue to bless you, increase you and multiply you for in the right time this nation will be transformed.” He affirmed.

The Lagos State PFN Chairman, Bishop Olushola Ore furthermore recognized the good works of Apostle. Dr. Bolaji Akinyemi and advised the Church leadership to always live in love. He supported his proclamation with 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8, John 13: 34 and Galatians 5: 22 where he said that “The leaders we are looking for today must be possessed with the spirit of love because God is love”. He went on to say, “If you don’t have love you cannot lead the people, as we are the light of the world and salt of the earth but the fruit of the spirit is love”. He informed.

If previous years’ concerts are anything to go by, the climax of the 2020 conference was the introduction of the General overseer, New Covenant Gospel Church and President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rev. Dr. Felix Omobude who thanked the convener, Apostle Dr. Bolaji Akinyemi and his wife, Prophetess Joy Osawaru-Akinyemi for the gathering; and everyone present. “I want to thank you for bringing all of us together because you are passionate about our nation. He that has begun this good work in you will complete it. May His oil never run dry in you in Jesus Name”. He announced.

The PFN President went on to assert that Christians must not stoop low to the enemy and declared. “As PFN President, I happen to know some of the challenges affecting Christians in Nigeria. No matter what, we covenant together to stand for what we believe and not betray the cross of Christ. My Father, by the authority of your words, we stand by your charge to say never again should they give themselves in compromise to the enemy, nor the wrath of the wicked fall on our lot.”

According to the Convener, General Overseer, The Voice Of His Word Ministries, Apostle Bolaji Akinyemi in his remark thanked the PFN President for finding out time to attend the conference and boldly told participants how joyous he was to have taken over Lagos State. “There is nowhere in the world where power is given, but always taken. So by prophetic understanding I am so happy Lagos is taken, Kaduna and the entire North is here. Middle Belt is here. South-South is taken”, he asserted.

Distinguished Church leaders present at the event are Dr. Patrick Anidi, Secretary, PFN Ikeja Province, Pastor Tunji Dada (MC), Rev. Mrs. Joy Osawaru-Akinyemi, Elder T. Adewoye, Apostle Femi Gideon, Dr. Jude Orhorha, Bishop Adekunle Oluwaseun, Bishop Femi Soneye, Pastor Samuel Afilaka, Chairman of the hosting Province of the event, Rev Olatunde Soyemi and his Vice, Pastor Okpanachi Simon, Bishop Dr. Praise Oliver, Apostle Tonye Oliver, Bishop Moses Idris, and Rev. Fola Olusanya.

Others include Rev. Dr. Isaac Agbelayi, Dr. David Orien, Bishop Dr. Praise Oliver, Pastor Tosin Oladipupo, Pastor Samuel Afilaka , Rev. Fola Olusanya, Apostle James Iyanda, Rev. Dotun Joshua Olaoye, Steve Osinlaye, Ebele Okonkwo, Sarah Ovayoiza Bankole, Pastor Sam Osimloye, Apostle Ifeanyi Amaechi, Rev. Collins Imozemhe, Rev. Hon. Kehinde Ayobamidele Robert, Bishop Oladiti, Abayomi Agbede-Daniels, Pastor Mandy Nwachukwu, Apostle David Olajide, and the press.

By Perekeme Odon

The gospel is a holistic message with implications for all areas of life, including how Christians engage the political process. Politics is a means of effecting great change and must be engaged by Christians who love their neighbours. This involves the young and the old, rich and poor, male and female.

Government plays a role in the work of God’s kingdom on earth. The good government encourages an environment conducive for people living peaceably, whereas bad government fosters unrest and instability. It is, therefore, encouraging to hear that the Church is now very ready to encourage and inspire Christians to get involved in politics and public life as opposed to the earthly allegiances which may separate us; and more serious on the achievement of sustainable development goals in Nigeria by implementing projects aimed at overcoming poverty, access to education and community development.

The Voice Of His Word Ministries, organizer of the annual APOSTOLIC ROUND TABLE- ART 2020; in conjunction with the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Christian Association Of Nigeria (CAN), The Gracious Church, Pastored by Pastor Kayode Adeshoga, The Trinity House, Pastored by, Pastor Ituah Ighodalor and in collaboration with PVCNaija will be hosting a two-day expository conference on ACT 20:20, with the theme, “THE SPIRIT OF LAGOS: A NEW GENERATION” on January 13 and 14 2020.

The two-day event whose Chief Host is the Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu will take place at the Living Rock Gospel Church, No 1, Tinuade Adepegba Street, Off Agbe Road, Abule-Egba, Lagos, would witness Christians and church leaders under the preached word that are designed for practical instruction and collaboration for a time of refreshed and refilled fellowship that will be sure to spur us on to love and do good deeds.

The morning and evening session event is aimed specifically for Christians to educate, encourage, equip, to lead with excellence, empower the next generation and use their creativity to bring life-change to our world by building upon the foundation of the Holy Scriptures for the work of ministry and for the glory of God.

On December 31, 2019, an emergency strategic plenary pre-conference breakout session was called by the PFN Chairman, Lagos State to afford the convener of ART 2020, and facilitator of The Spirit of LAGOS, Dr Bolaji O. Akinyemi, the opportunity to unveil the project at Agape Generation International Church, Mende, Maryland, Lagos State, that saw notable leaders of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria and Christians Association of Nigeria from all 19 Provinces free-associating and conversing on specific subjects of the broad theme of the main conference.

The convener, Apostle Dr Akinyemi welcomed everyone to the strategically selected gathering after prayers and in his opening remark thanked the presence of the CAN Chairman Lagos state, Rev. Dr Alex Bamgbola for the dynamics and creativity he brought to leadership; and the PFN Chairman Lagos state, Bishop Olushola Ore who have shown so much love and encouragement to them.

“Thank you so much, my fathers, for been here. I know that it’s not all palatable when you have to hear about some of the things that are said of me". The Apostolic Round Table this year is titled the Spirit of LAGOS, LAGOS, in this context means; Leaders After God’s Own Spirit’. There can’t be good governance except we have leaders after God’s own spirit. There are lots of people whose spirits are disconnected from God.” He stated.

He said the priority of the conference is to strategize on how to raise these qualities of leaders, identify them, equip them and set them forth. “I have no issue with people God has privileged ahead to be in one political position or the other, but I realize that every time we say a Christian is needed, the Church is hardly consulted. It is still among the politicians using their yardstick to pick one. We need to go back to the local structure because every building must be built from the bottom to the top and not the reverse.”

The Chairman, PFN Lagos State, Bishop Olushola Ore who moderated the event thanked the Chairman, CAN Lagos State for having his presence around with so short a notice and prayed for him to live long. “ First of all, I want to thank God for our lives and for the honours you have given to God. A man came to me with vision, boldness and the concern that he has about the body of Christ when it comes to governance. There are certain things that I don’t know that some of you know that you will share with us. This nation can never be delivered unless Lagos takes the centre stage.” He affirmed.

The Chairman, CAN Lagos State, Rev. Dr Alex Bamgbola additionally thanked the Lord for making it conceivable for him to be there. “I thank you for giving me the opportunity to say a word. God is raising a man to wake us up, and the way things are happening, we ministers of God are already under siege. If we don’t move, lift our eyes and look unto God in oneness and in unity, our children will suffer, that is why we must take responsibility to make true change happen for the Nigerian masses.”

There was also the question and answer session that is designed to enabled participants to ask topical questions to help them carry out responsible, and rewarding lives affecting Christians by building relationships across political parties lines, as we seek to put God's kingdom before tribal and bitter politics.

Present at the event are Chairman, PFN Lagos State, Bishop Olushola Ore, Chairman, CAN Lagos State, Rev. Dr Alex Bamgbola, Deputy Chairman, CAN Lagos State Apt. Eyinnaya Okwuonu, Rev. Mrs Joy Osawaru-Akinyemi, Rev. Collins Imozemhe, Evang Bolarinwa Akinniyi, Treasurer PFN Lagos State, Rev. Fola Olusanya, Commander Peter Olabode, Rev. Dr Peace Goodey, Pst Ojo and Pst. Mrs Taiwo Olukunimi, Bishop Femi Soneye, Pst. Samuel Afilaka, the Chairman of the hosting Province of the event, Rev Olatunde Soyemi and his Vice, Pst. Okpanachi Simon. Present also are Bishop Dr Praise Oliver, Apst James Iyanda, Apt. Akin Akindejoye, Bishop Theophilus Ajose, Pst. Obinna Egbuonu, Apt. George Anselem, Pst. Daniel Ayuba, Bishop Mark E. Omonze, Dr Adeyandu Jacob Olusegun, Apt. Dr Iyke Ejiaku, Dr Mrs Maxwell, Chairman Ojo PFN, Apt. Dr Patrick Utulu and Apt. Tonye Oliver,

Others include Abayomi Agbede-Daniels, Mandy Nwachukwu, Shiloh Akinyemi, Bishop Oladiti, Evang. Adebola Olateju, Pst. Abolanle Fashuwape, Pst. John Bello, Apt. Ifeanyi Amaechi, Bishop Ogadeji Felix, Pst. Jonathan Odianah, Evang. Adewole Dorcas Nihinlola, Prophetess Dr Ijeoma Okeke, Rev. Dotun Joshua Olaoye, Pst. Segun Adeyemi JP, Rev. Hon. Kehinde Ayobamidele Robert and the media.

By Perekeme Odon

The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II paid a civility visit to the Nigerian talk show queen, media mogul, billionaire filmmaker, and CEO of EbonyLife TV Mosunmola 'Mo' Abudu, who finally opened her newly accomplished multi-billion Naira Ebony Life Studios, positioned at highbrow Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, in the heart of Lagos State, Nigeria.

The exciting and fanfare visit that saw the Ooni convoyed by the President, Directors Guild of Nigeria, Olorogun Fred Amata and other dignitaries took place on December 23, 2019, at the EbonyLife Studios, VI, Lagos.

The CEO EbonyLife TV and first African to chair the International Emmy Awards Gala, Mo Abudu welcomed everyone present and shared how excited she was to have such a befitting personality and Royal Father in her studio.

The harbinger of the first syndicated daily talk show on the continent “Moments With Mo” in 2006 started the evening with a tour around the five-storey edifice alongside the Ooni of Ife and his cortege that lasted about an hour.

“It is my overwhelming desire to welcome our distinctive and amiable Royal Father, the Ooni of Ife, whom I adulate so much. This project is not a one person’s dream or job but a collective effort. I believe everyone here is going to have a thrilling and delightful time while it last.” She declared.
The studio, which has various cinema halls and other important film making facilities, including a 20 bedroom hotel is Africa’s first Black Global Outfit; Mo Abudu has conserved her place and prominence as one of the top filmmakers in Nigeria.

The President, Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Olorogun Fred Amata commended the EbonyLife boss and said, “This is a laudable venture embarked upon by a woman of excellence often referred to as “Africa’s Oprah”. I admire her drive for flawlessness and prominence: and also wish her all the best.”
In 2014, she started EbonyLife Films, which has created the three highest-grossing films in the history of Nollywood. The outfit has established an exclusive partnership with DSTV for the distribution of her content across Africa though the Ebonylife TV channel.

In 2018, EbonyLife announced a three-series scripted deal with Sony Pictures Television, followed by an agreement with another major US studio to develop an African science-fiction TV series. Mo has furthermore shot three films earning close to a billion Naira with the world acclaimed movie distributor, Netflix.

The Grand Patron of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria and Imperial Majesty of Nollywood, Ooni of Ife and his train were treated to sumptuous assorted snacks, hors d'oeuvres and choice wines. This followed by a hilarious and entertaining blockbuster social-media-driven political satire movie, ‘Your Excellency’, produced by Mo Abudu and directed by Funke Akindele-Bello starring Akin Lewis, Funke Akindele-Bello, Kunle Coker, Seyi Law, Deyemi Okanlanwon, Helen Paul, Alexx Ekubo, etc. The star-studded funny and touching movie signifying a barrel of laughs from every angle as it shows how politics and social media are shaping Nigerian society in equal measure, by way of they poking fun at Nigerian politics and society at large with the story of a bumbling, billionaire businessman and three-time failed presidential candidate, who becomes a credible contender when his dance moves and gaffes ignite social media.

The Ooni acknowledged the magnificent headways of Mo Abudu in raising the bar of the Nigerian movie industry with what he had seen on the ground. “We should give honour to whom honour is due. EbonyLife Place is amazing with a hardworking woman that built if from ground zero. She has never been disrespectful and we are happy with her success stories.

With the core values of team spirit, boldness, innovation, and vibrancy that define them, EbonyLife Media will continue to be the go-to source of dynamic, original, quality content that celebrate the beauty of Africa and enjoy creating captivating contents that will tell the African story from a fresh and positive African perspective to the world.

Present at the event is Director of Business School, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Dr. Prince Makinde, HOD Public Health, OAU, Ile-Ife, Prof. Olapeju Adefunke Esimai, DGN President, Olorogun Fred Amata, AMP President, Mr. Ralph Nwadike, NFVCB Member, Mr. Keppy Ekpenyong-Bassey, DGN Treasurer, Dr. Tony Akposheri, Rykardo Agbo, Seyi Law, Deyemi Okanlawon, Iyabo Ojo, AVOA President, Ngozi Ogbonna Onye, DGN PRO, Mr. Perekeme Odon, Prince Tunji Onochie Adebirigbe, Uche Iwuji, Mr. Franks Oite, and other dignitaries.

By Perekeme Odon

It was celebration galore, epoch of cultural glitziness, excitement and exhilarating enthusiasm away from the average push and rush as family and friends of the apex custodian of the Nigerian filmmaking body, Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN) decorated, invested and conferred with a befitting honour on the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oonirisa Kabiyesi Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi as the Grand Patron of DGN and Imperial Majesty of Nollywood.

Nollywood actor/director and incumbent President of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Olorogun Fred Amata, made the conferment to the Ooni of Ife on Tuesday, December 18, 2019, at his Arole Oodua Enuma Palace, Ile-Ife, Osun State of Nigeria as part of activities marking the guild’s 20th anniversary holding in March 2020 at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

During the majestic visit to the Ooni Royal Palace, the entourage had distinctive impressions about the Ooni, but one thing that immediately strikes a first time visitor to the Palace is the Ooni's uncommon affability and intellectualism. His love for his people is adequately reciprocated, as the entire palace ground swarms with people of different statuses and of various tribes and creeds.

The exclusive experience started with an opening prayer by one of Nollywood finest award-winning director, Mr. Teco Benson (MFR) and followed by the introduction of the delegates by DGN Founding President, Mr. Mathias Obahiagbon.

Speaking at the conferment ceremony, the DGN President, Olorogun Fred Amata highlighted some pressing needs affecting the Nigerian movie industry and said the guild had taken proactive steps to overhaul film production in order to position it toward professionalism, entrepreneurship, and competitiveness.

“I am overwhelmed, privileged and honoured today to be leading a delegation of famous people of Nollywood to this land of greatness and cradle of civilization. There are various other guilds and associations in Nollywood. Our purpose of coming here despite the fame we have achieved is to felicitate and identify with this great land and King in the service to our creativity, humanity, and provision of assistance to professional filmmaking in Nigeria. Thank you for accepting DGN as we believe this synergy and bonding mark a new positive beginning for continuous support and encouragement to better the guild and the Nigerian movie industry.” He declared.

Furthermore granted was a brief speech by the DGN BOT Member, Chief Zeb Ejiro (OFR) who upheld the action as colossal for the guild said; “I bring greetings from the Board as its Chairman. This is a massive achievement for the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria because the guild is the creative arm of Nollywood that makes Nigeria the third largest film-producing nation in the world. Thank you and God bless you as we will come again and again to meet your doors open.” He asserted.

The President, Association of Movie Producer (AMP), Mr. Ralph Nwadike also expressed his gratitude and admirations vis-à-vis the epoch-making event. “My father, you have made me proud for giving us a new name and height. It is indeed a great honour for Nollywood to have a great King, Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ile-Ife as a Grand Patron of Directors’ Guild of Nigeria. Thank you for making it possible for us to be here today and let the world hear that Nollywood has come to stay.” He stated.

The Oni of Ife, who rolled out various African cuisine and fanfare during the ceremony which he tagged ‘Tonight Is The Night’ thanked DGN for the honour bestowed him and tasked them to come up with an improved method of taking the movie industry to another level.

“I greet all members and executives of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria. It is indeed a great honour and adoration to have you here. You have shown me, love, peace, and a sign of togetherness. I don’t know who told you to come to make me your Grand Patron, because I am very happy to associate with you from today. I am a very active supporter of the movie industry in Nigeria. I have supported lots of movie initiatives and projects in Nigeria. Things I have been doing indirectly can be done directly now.” He stated.

The Ooni went on to charge filmmakers for their relentless efforts in ensuring that the world has come to know us with our movies.. “Everyone is running after Netflix. Why can’t we have our own Netflix here? Why can’t we have hubs where we can be downloading movies and think outside the box? I built a resort in Lagos. It is one of the biggest resorts in Nigeria with about 250 hectares of land. My plan was to build a movie city before I became a King. Several movies have actually been done there. I have been thinking aloud that in this country we should have a movie city like what they have in California. Even as a King I am trying to build a film city that is called Ife Grand Resort and trying to take it to another level.” He said.

Kabiyesi commended members of the guild for the stimulating contributions made and promised to help them since piracy and other vices affecting filmmaking in Nigeria are fading out gradually.

“We will definitely work together. Right now we are doing Moremi Theatre we taking to Broadway in a few month's time. Now that you have given me what I am very passionate about by bringing me on board as your Grand Patron, I will also make sure that those powerful people in Nigeria are brought on board with you. There are a lot of people that are getting very much interested in the Nigerian movie industry. So it is all-important for us to all sit down and see how to take it to another level because I will support you wholeheartedly.” He affirmed.

Present at the event are DGN Founding Member, Mr. Sam Azubuike, Leader of the delegation, Chief Peddie Okao, AVOA President, Ngozi Ogbonna, Rycardo Agbor, DGN Financial Secretary, Dr. Tony Akposheri, Davidson Izegaegbe, Ricardo Agbor, Johnbull Negbenebor, Angela Philips, Vivian Okoro, Kemi Adekomi, DGN PH Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Sammy Ogunbiyi, Prince Olayinka Ibikunle, Prince Tunji Onochie Aderibigbe, AGN National Secretary, Abubakar Yakubu, Prince Olayinka Awosunle Christopher, and Dr. Kenneth Njoku.

Others include Ooni of Ife Media Officer, Comrade Moses Olafare, Obafemi Awolowo University Director of Business School, Dr. Prince Makinwa & HOD, Public Health, OAU Prof. Olapeju Esimai, DGN PRO, Perekeme Odon, DGN National Secretary, Uchenna Agbo, DGN Provost, Osita Okoli. Victor Emeghara, Uche Iwuji, DGN PH Zonal Secretary, Fred Mayford, Ijeoma Imo, and Stephanie Osaghae.

It was a day of glitz, glamour and electrifying excitement away from the usual hustle and bustle, as the family and creative powerhouse of the Nigerian movie industry; Creative Designers Guild of Nigeria (CDGN) stepped out in grand style and gathered together a stunning audience from across the entertainment industry to celebrate yet another successful year with filmmakers and friends.

The talk of the town event dubbed “The New Dawn” which held at No 18 Eric Moore Street, Off Bode Thomas in Surulere, Lagos hosted entertainment practitioners to a fun-filled Year-End Party and award presentations. This event was organized by the Lagos State chapter of the Creative Designers Guild of Nigeria (CDGN) to herald the Christmas festivities and thank filmmakers and media practitioners for their unflinching partnership and support throughout the year.

The end of year party and award presentations which came off on Thursday, December 12, 2019 saw the Chairman, Creative Designers Guild of Nigeria (CDGN) Lagos State Chapter Mrs. Joy Osawaru-Akinyemi played host to a galaxy of dignitaries, producers, directors, captains of industry, entertainers and distinguished media personalities of the make-believe profession for an afternoon of fun, games and fraternizing marked by stunning exhilarating music, exotic continental / African cuisine laced with expensive champagne and an assortment of beverages.

In her opening remark, Mrs. Osawaru-Akinyemi welcomed everyone and expressed her exhilaration to see an event of such happening for the first time at the Lagos state chapter of the guild. She cheerfully expressed that since creativity is the watchword of the guild, it is essential to make sure the guild appreciates hard work and dignity by recognizing every positive effort in their little ways.

“You are all welcome to the first-ever end-of-year and award presentation of this great guild. In any creative organization, people are and will always be our greatest asset. Your abilities and contributions are an important key to the development of our movie industry today. As a believer and crusader of hard work and excellence, I want to congratulate all the award recipients of this occasion and charge you to continue to exhale the core values of the Nigerian film industry.” She affirmed.

Award recipients recognized at the CDGN 2019 maiden edition are veteran Nollywood director, Mr. Andy Amenechi, Businessman and Media guru Olorogun Elkanah Oghenovo Mowarin and other practicing professionals, including President, Association of Movie Producer (AMP), Mr. Ralph Nwadike, Mr. Keppy Ekpenyong- Bassey, former Lagos State Chairman and National Spokesman, Film and Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria (FVPMAN), Barr. Norbert Ajaegbu, Mr. Tony Anih, and Mr. Isaac O. David. These professionals were exclusively honoured as “As a pillar of Nollywood and an inestimable supporter and ally of our guild,” the honour plaques read.

In his acceptance speech, the former President of Screenwriters Guild of Nigerian (SWGN), Mr. Tony Anih, said even though he found light in the guild, he least expected the award. “ I want to thank God for giving me life and the gift of filmmaking. This is actually coming at a point I least expected from an uncommon and most peaceful guild I will like to appreciate my late father and those who in one way or the other influenced and encouraged me to take up filmmaking and writing as a profession.”

Another recipient and veteran frontline production manager/producer, former National President, Association of Movie Production Managers of Nigeria (AMPN) and MD Big Screen Network, Mr. Isaac O. David aka Zicolala, expressed gratitude to God and the CDGN family. “I want to thank God and my family, especially my wife. CDGN is my family and the first guild to have remembered and recognized me. I was part of the writing process of the CDGN constitution. My advice to practitioners is always to try to impact your brothers and partners because you don’t know where we will get to. I will never forget CDGN until I rest. Thank you.”

Veteran actor and Board member National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Mr. Keppy Ekpenyong-Bassey who was also an award recipient thanked the guild for the award. “Thank you for this award. 30 years ago most of us who came into the industry early had that NTA orientation. Nollywood grew because the creators decided to attempt to realize the potentials our industry offered. So we grew; and from then till now we have all been struggling to play catch up because the industry has overtaken us, and in truth, all of us here are struggling to catch up with the pace the industry has attained so far. What we are doing at the Board presently is to make sure we take all the guilds along and try to conduct our media literacy campaign to see how we can collaborate and partner for development. We hope to establish a relationship with your guild and your chapter in particular. I promise you that as long as I sit on that board, anywhere we have an activity I will make sure this guild is fully represented.”

The delighted CDGN Lagos State Chapter Chairman of Nollywood creative powerhouse affirmed that from this year, it would be a non-stop tradition for the Lagos State Chapter of the guild to annually appreciate and honour practitioners in the creative industry and the media by extension.

“We started the party with the disguise from member to bring the big surprise to a few deserving practitioners by awarding them and will not a renegade. This is our modest attempt at appreciating the enormous contributions of these great practitioners in the Nigeria film industry. I believe by April 2020, the guild will organize the CDGN Nollywood Fashion & Exhibition Week with the general public in attendance. Thank you to all our members for joining hands to making this event happen with success beyond expectations, and we are waiting for a new appreciative 2020 with more and more thought-provoking creative outings.” She stated.

Present at the event includes Ikechukwu Chibuko (Vice Chairman, CDGN Lagos), Dennis Nkem Onyemeluonu, Perekeme Odon, Salome Oputa (Treasurer CDGN Lagos), Leo Omoseebi (National PRO CDGN), Otunba Olawale Bello, Lydia Chukwu, Lizzy Ibe, Ebere Ezike, R. Bash Shootz, Uche Obiora (Welfare Officer CDGN Lagos), Blessing Awusi (Fin. Sec. CDGN Lagos), Innocent Abah (Secretary, CDGN Lagos), Sandra Ejikeme, Mrs. Jovita Dennis William, Blessing Chikeruba Elumeze and members of the press.

By Perekeme Odon

A study of the history of opinion is a necessary preliminary to the liberation of the mind. That is why freedom is the liberation of the subjective rule of other men. The progressive historical role of entrepreneurship may be summed up in two brief propositions: an increase in the productive forces of social labour, and the socialization of that labour. But both these facts manifest themselves in different branches of the national economy.

Politicians are organizing, strategizing and campaigning for elections; and it is the legal right of every citizen above 18 years of age in Nigeria to exercise their civil right and duty without fear or prejudice because freedom is the cynosure in the heart of every human being which connotes liberty in all sphere of life. The gubernatorial election is around the corner and Bayelsa state which pride herself as ‘The Glory of All Land’ needs a vibrant and enthusiastic governor, and that person is Senator Douye Diri; an academically trained teacher, activist, and businessman.

Born on the 4 June 1969 to Chief A.J.M Diri of Kalama-Owei-Wari Compound of Sampou in Kolokuma / Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa state. Senator Diri started his primary education at Okoro Primary School, Sampou and earned his First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) in 1977 at Rev. Proctor Memorial Primary School, Kaiama (then State School Kaiama), and went to Government Secondary School, Odi, KOLGA, Bayelsa state where he was appointed Dining Hall Prefect and sat for his West African Senior School Certificate (WASSC) in 1981 respectively.

He got admitted into the then College of Education, Port Harcourt, Rivers state where obtained his Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) in 1985. Due to his passion for learning and education, Senator Douye Diri gained admission into the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers state where he obtained his a Bachelor of Education degree in Political Science in 1990. After graduation, he chose to practice the teaching profession and taught in several government schools in the rural area in the Old Rivers state before the creation of Bayelsa state and later resigned his position as a teacher to pursue a stable determined career in politics.

As Governorship candidate of the PDP, Senator Douye Diri is here to bell the cat and deliver the cargoes to the good people of Bayelsa state with an agreement between him and Bayelsans in order to advance common goals and to secure common interests of affinity and similarity. His theory of delivery is non-negotiable as he guarantees to produce a government of integrity for the good people of Bayelsa state and respect for divinity. He is the best man with the vision and capacity to govern Bayelsa state come 2020 if given the opportunity.

Senator Diri is like men that have seen all in terms of government and governance right from the creation of Bayelsa State. In the first civilian administration under Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, he was Executive Secretary of the Bayelsa Youth Development Centre (2000-2002). In 2005, he was appointed Commissioner for Youth and Sports where he took Bayelsa state to the National Sports Festival at Abeokuta in 2006 under the leadership of former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan while as Governor of Bayelsa state.

The former member of the Federal House of Representatives promised to shock those who misjudge him described himself as a principled person and that he is not going to be a stooge nor an underdog in the governorship race. “It will be very clear to anyone in doubt about who I am, and what I stand for. I choose my friends and those I want to work with, and I desired to work with Governor Dickson and I am very satisfied working with him.” He also stated,

The son of a headmaster, who divinely defeated 20 other aspirants to emerge as the PDP's standard-bearer, is a man whose quest and urge for service is unrivaled. It all started at NDDC when many assumed him to be staff but a political ally and close aide to Chief Timi Alaibe with the vision to consecrate a government in Bayelsa that would be more receptive to the people

A lot of people are finding it very difficult to break away from the norms of modern slavery of the unknown, but I say to you, break into the unknown and you will see the mystery of ‘Prosperity in Action’ because Senator Douye Diri has enormously contributed towards the development of communities, sponsoring over 20 bills and moving a handful of motions to the benefit of his Federal Constituency while in the Nigerian House of Representatives.

Freedom is the goal of every human. It takes time and better readiness through adequate preparation to achieve by building structures and galvanizing constant ideologies that in turn liberates you from being a political prisoner.

Senator Diri also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be an open-minded umpire and that the security assistance should be professional during the election. "Our appeal is that the security agencies must be professional. INEC must remain an unbiased umpire. If there is that fair playing field, the opponents are neither here nor there to contest in this election. " He asserted.

Every living creature wants to be emancipated from the hands of the oligarchy. Your PVC is the weapon and power to liberate yourself from your distorted state of mind and the bondage and shackles of Bayelsa state political correctitude.

The public-spirited PDP Governorship candidate who loves to be at someone’s service pledged to engage and prioritize Bayelsans first before anything in various business activities that will define their identity. “I promised to involve more Bayelsans in the economic activities of the state and pay greater attention to the issue of security. Our local economy is neither here nor there. The sitting governor has tried to bring in solutions in agriculture, trying to look at our comparative advantage and I intend to build on that. I want us to have a local economy where our people will be directly involved. Those are the things I will build on, but that is not to say we will neglect other sectors." He declared.

In fairness to serving and service, Senator Douye Diri was appointed the First National Organizing Secretary of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the foremost organization of the Ijaw Nation. He was council Board Member, University of Maiduguri from 2008-2012, Chairman, People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Disciplinary Council, Bayelsa State (2012), Deputy Chief of Staff, Bayelsa State Government House (2012), Principal Executive Secretary from (2013-2014), Federal House of Representatives representing Kolokuma / Opokuma / Yenagoa Federal Constituency (2015-2019), Bayelsa State Central Senatorial district (2019--)

Don’t just sit and feel conquered. Join the struggle for the prosperity of the Bayelsa state today. Vote Peoples Democratic Party, become a member of prosperity train and deliver Bayelsans from unknown and greedy political imbeciles.