Gov Abdulrazaq promotes Kwara as Nollywood hub at BON Awards
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
Kwara State hosted the crème de la crème of Nigeria’s movie industry (Nollywood) on Sunday night, with Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq inviting them to take advantage of the state’s state-of-the-art facilities and welcoming environment for creatives.
Speaking at the 16th edition of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards, held at the Sugar Factory Film Studio in Ilorin, Governor Abdulrazaq noted that the event celebrates distinguished individuals in the movie industry. He commended the organizers for choosing Kwara as the venue to assemble and honor the best of Nollywood.
The event provided the Governor with a platform to promote Kwara as the next destination for quality cinematography, tourism, hospitality, innovation, technology, and other creative endeavors.
“I warmly welcome you all to Kwara State and thank you for honoring us with your presence. Tonight’s event takes place at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, a purpose-built facility designed to elevate cinematography, nurture local talent, and position Kwara as a hub for high-quality film production,” he said.
“The Sugar Factory Film Studio is more than just a venue; it represents our administration’s commitment to supporting the creative economy. This facility offers cutting-edge resources to enhance movie production, build local capacity, conserve foreign exchange, and boost our economy.
“Located within a dynamic ecosystem for creativity, tourism, and entertainment, this initiative is complemented by several landmark projects, including the Visual Arts Centre, Ilorin Innovation Hub, International Conference Centre, remodeled Kwara Hotel, and natural attractions such as the breathtaking Owu Falls, the historic Sobi Hill, and the tranquil Flower Garden.
“Our accessible road networks, proximity to an international airport, and robust sports facilities make Kwara the perfect destination for both creative and leisure activities.”
The Governor also thanked the thespians and stakeholders in the creative sector for their immense contributions to national development.
“Your presence here highlights the immense possibilities that Kwara offers. We invite you to consider Kwara for your next productions, holidays, and creative pursuits,” Governor Abdulrazaq added.
The BON Awards 2024 was attended by dozens of Nollywood legends and emerging talents, many of whom won awards in various categories.
Prominent figures at the colorful event included screen icons such as Fred Amata, Hilda Dokubo, Tunji Bamishigbin, Gloria Anozie, Ayo Magaji, Bimbo Manuel, Keppy Bassey Ekpeyoung, Yomi Fash-Lanso, Toyin Abraham, Lillian Aluko, and Aisha Lawal, among several others.
The distinguished Kanayo O. Kanayo received a lifetime achievement award, which was presented to him by Governor Abdulrazaq. Other notable winners included Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Mercy Aigbe, Adebayo Tijani, and other top names in the industry.
Femi Adebayo won the Best Actor of the Year award, along with three other awards, for his outstanding performance in the hit film Jagun Jagun. Wumi Dada won Best Actress for her role in The Unknown Soldier. Each of the two awardees received N5 million worth of wardrobe funding, provided by the Ilorin-based firm Wura Fadaka.
Dignitaries at the event included First Lady of Kwara State, Amb. Olufolake Abdulrazaq; House of Representatives member Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya; state legislators; cabinet members; security service commanders; Aare Abisoye Fagade of the National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality; heads of agencies and parastatals; and thought leaders such as Engineer Suleiman Yahya Alapansapa of the Ilorin Durbar Committee; Raheem Adedoyin, a former commissioner and board member of the International Press Institute; and Femi Sani, founder of Flow FM Ilorin.
Renowned thespian Patrick Doyle described the awards as a huge success and commended Governor Abdulrazaq for his impressive work, visible in the streets of Ilorin.
“We don’t often praise politicians, but I must commend what I have seen in Ilorin. It is a very clean and beautiful city. I commend Your Excellency for this,” Kanayo remarked.
Bamishigbin praised the Governor for the peace and harmony in Kwara, while Samuel Olatunji (Big Sam), an influential digital creator, noted that the emerging infrastructure and vibrant atmosphere in Ilorin now rival those in Lagos.
Seun Oloketuyi, founder of the BON Awards, thanked the Governor and his team for the honor of hosting the event and for projecting Kwara as a leading player in the creative sector.
