10 best Nigerian Nollywood movies of all time

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Presently Nollywood has grown big in Nigeria and in Africa in general. It has become the third largest movie production studio in the world. However, some of its best and earliest movies were created back in 70ss, 80ss and 90ss of the last century. 

It all has started with Yoruba movies or the Yoruba Travelling Theatre Groups, who decided to expand their art outside the theater and start filming. The first Nigerian movie was filmed in 1973. It was the film version of the famous Wole Soyinka play called Kongi’s Harvest. Our list of the 10 best Nigerian Nollywood movies of all time will remind you of some of the classics.

Today Nollywood is capable of grinding out as many as new six movies a day. However, at its early time, those movies took much longer to craft. That might be the reason why they still remain relevant and interesting.

Top 10 list of the best Nigerian movies:

1. Mr. and Mrs.
   This Naija movie was produced in 2012. The two key parts in it are performed by Nse Ikpe Etim, Joseph Benjamin. It is a family drama with two families in the center of our attention. In these two homes a man and a woman find themselves in rather difficult situation, but they discover the way out and have a lesson we all can learn and benefit from.
   In 2013 Nse Ikpe was nominated for the Nollywood Movies Awards for playing the leading role in this film. The BO sales of this movie rose up to 6 million naira.
   
    
2. Living in Bondage
   Another Nigeria drama film was taken in 1992. It is a tale of an unhappy family, where the husband joins some cult and murders his wife to perform a ritual and become rich. Consequently, she ends up dead and he ends up mad.
   It has Okechukwu Ogunjiofor and Francis Agu starring. This movie is a sort of the first robin of the Nollywood. It’s the classics you can’t miss. That is why it is on our top 10 best Nigerian Nollywood movies of all time.
   
    
3. October 1
   It’s a new movie produced in 2014. The genre is stimulating; it is a thriller, which tells us about a crime story and a life of police officer, who got involved investigating several murders in an out of the way area.
   It got such actors as Sadiq Daba and Kayode Aderupoko starring in it. This film has won three awards from the African International Film Festival. Plus, it’s got the likings of the Nigerian movie fans, collecting over 60 million naira in the box office sales.
   
    
4. Irapada
   This movie has gotten lots of acknowledgment from different sources. It was produced in 2006. In 2013 CNN has proclaimed it to be one of the best African films of the present century. Plus, it got the reward from the AMAA, as the best African language movie.
   It has collected only 5 million naira in BO sales, but it has a fascinating script (it is a thriller movie) and great cast. The film has all the chances of becoming a new classic of Nollywood.
   
    
5. Maami
   This is one of the 10 best Nigerian Yoruba Nollywood movies. This film depicts a destiny of a person, who comes from poor background and has to overcome many sufferings and hardships in life. To leading actors starring in it are Funke Akindele and Wole Ojo. It also features famous Nigerian musician Fatai Rolling Dollar.
   The film was released in 2011. It has been nominated four times on AMAA. The BO sales did not equal the hopes of its creator and it has become a failure in box office. Still, many pirates copied it and distributed in DVDs.
   
    
6. Most wanted
   It is another one of Nollywood Yoruba movies. It was produced in 1998. This story tells us of four girls, who were loyal friends and decided to go for a robbery. For a long while no one could even believe those robberies were performed by ladies. There is the unexpected turn in the movie: one of the girls falls in love with the police officer, who was supposed to be tracing her down.
   This was the very movie, where presently famous comedian actress Patience Ozokwor was featured for the first time ever on the screen.
   
    
7. Half of a Yellow Sun
   The movie was released in 2013. It is a historical fiction drama and a film version of the novel written by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. It has a great collection of Nigerian Nollywood stars in it, such as Genevieve Nnaji and John Boyega.
   It shares a story of the lives of two sisters, who have made pretty odd and unexpected choices, if they are viewed from the standpoint of traditional Nigerian community. The movie is an obvious success and its BO sales rose up to 2 + million dollars.
   
   
   READ ALSO: The most beautiful actress in Africa - top 10 list.
    
8. Dangerous Twins
   The first movie was produced in 2004. Two more followed. This drama lasts for 135 minutes. It features Ramsey Nouah and Stella Damasus-Aboderin in main roles. The film has been celebrated by the AMAA for the best special effects. Before you start watching the part 1, better go ahead and find all three of them. You would surely be eager to keep on watching, once you have started.
   
    
9. Glamour Girls
   Here is another classic movie on our list of 10 best Nigerian Nollywood movies of all time. It was released in 1994. It talks about hardships and survival of young girls being on their own in this world. It features Liz Benson and Sola Fasudo.
   
    
10. Osuofia in London
    At last after all the dramas and thrillers we get a good comedy on our list. Nkem Owoh performs the key role. He plays a country guy from Nigeria that comes to London and gets a share of riches left for him by a relative. It was filmed in 2003. It’s an old story told anew and it can make your day and make you laugh. That is the point.
    

Nollywood and its leading actors and actresses already make rapid progress and some good money, too. This industry has bright future and high probability that in no time its movies would do great BO sales not only in Africa, but all over the globe. 

READ ALSO: 4 2014 Nollywood Movies You Need To See In 2015.

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Nollywood 2015: The good, the bad and the ugly

2015 will go down as an eventful year for the Nigerian movie industry better known as Nollywood. The year has recorded some good, bad and ugly moments. As the year’s curtains draw to a close, we bring you the major events, people and social media tantrum that shook the motion picture industry. Let’s start with the ugly side:

THE UGLY

The curtain of the year 2015 flipped open with the shocking news of the death of top Nollywood actor, Muna Obiekwe. Obiekwe passed away after a protracted battle with kidney failure on Sunday January 18, 2015 in a hospi­tal in FESTAC Town, Lagos.

In July, award-winning Yoruba movie actor and event manager, Mufutau Sanni Abdulahi popularly known asAjigijaga passed away. Famous for his roles as leader of criminal gangs in movies, the actor died after a brief illness. He was 60.

Nollywood was thrown into another round of mourning following the death of budding actress and make-up artiste, Tosin Abeniade Badmus. Badmus, who broke into the movie industry a few years back, died in November after battling an undisclosed ailment.

Abia State-born comedian, Dede Oneday passed on in the early hours of Monday, December 14, 2015. Oneday reportedly succumbed to hypertension, as he collapsed shortly after anchoring a programme in Aba, Abia State.

THE BAD

Though, some celebrities couldn’t make it to the last month of the year, others miraculously cheated death by the whiskers. They included Yul Edochie, Shan George,

Maureen Ihua, Prince Eke, and Ireti Doyle. Theirs could be described as “narrow escape”.

To start with, Yul, last son of veteran actor, Pete Edochie, was in October attacked by armed robbers in Enugu. He had gone for the shooting of a movie when he was reportedly attacked at an unidentified hotel in Enugu where he had lodged.

Also, Tinsel star, Iretiola Doyle, was in the night of Wednesday, October 8 robbed by criminal gangs operating in traffic gridlock along Town Planning Way, Ilupeju, Lagos.

The side window of her GAC Trump Jeep was damaged and her phone stolen but she escaped unhurt.

Hers was not a robbery case. Towards the tail end of October, screen diva, Shan George survived a car accident in Enugu State. She was enroute Lagos from Calabar with her son and manager when a speeding Toyota Camry car allegedly left its lane and rammed into the driver’s side of her white Toyota RAV4. The accident, which damaged the driver side of the car, occurred around Abakpa Nike Roundabout/Onitsha Road.

Neither robbery nor accident but kidnapping was the lot of Abuja-based actress, Maureen Ihua and Prince Eke, husband to music star, Muma Gee in 2015. Ihua was kidnapped by three gunmen at a function in Port Harcourt, after the abductors had demanded for N100 million as ransom. Rivers State. She later regained her freedom

On his part, Prince Eke was kidnapped on Saturday, December 5 on his way from a movie location in Asaba, Delta State. He was abducted on Owerri-Port Harcourt Road and a whopping sum of N15 million was demanded for his release or else “he’ll be buried alive”. Few days later, however, the actor was rescued and has since reunited with his family.

SCANDALS

Tonto Dike’s debt mess

Nollywood’s diva of controversy, Tonto Dikeh, sparked social media tsunami after an Instagram user, Pearl Chuks (@pumps­berry) slammed her for allegedly owing her N192, 000 for a handbag she bought on credit. The aggrieved businesswoman stated that he gave the actress a ‘fake’ designer bag when she couldn’t afford the original, but she didn’t make any effort to pay for it. However, Dikeh denied the claims and ended up burning the controversial bag into ashes.

Queen Nwokoye Vs. Rachel Okonkwo

Queen Nwokoye and Rachel Okonkwo engaged each other in what could be tagged ‘celebrity fight’ over movie roles. Hell broke loose when the controversial thespian, Ms Queen, allegedly walked into a movie set and discovered that the lady she was play­ing supporting actress with was her ‘junior’ in the industry. This led to both of them exchanging words before storming out of the location. Since then the duo have been at loggerheads.

SPLIT UP

Toyin Aimakhu Vs. Adeniyi Johnson

The Nollywood couple got separated a few months ago after Toyin discovered that her husband was cheating on her. Though, the embattled husband made an open confession of his atrocities, apologised and promised to turn a new leaf, Toyin was not ready to give him a second chance.

Emeka Ike Vs. Emma Ike

Their marriage of 12 years met with trou­bled waters some months ago, as Emma, the embittered wife of veteran actor, Emeka Ike ran to a customary court seeking for the dis­solution of their union. Giving her reasons for opting out of the marriage, the mother of four attributed it to constant beating, abuse and lack of care and respect.

Ann Njemanze Vs. Silver Ojieson

Tinsel star, Ann Njemanze, has lost her second marriage. The actress, who was formerly mar­ried to actor Segun Arinze mar­ried a UNILAG lecturer, Silver Ojieson on Saturday November 9, 2013. But barely two years after, the union crumbled like a pack of cards. Ann is now back as a single mother of two children.

Georgina Onuoha Vs. Mr. Igwegbe

Ms Onuoha was a prominent face in Nollywood but she disappeared some years back after she married and relocated to the United States of America. Few weeks into 2015, she resurfaced on social media with the heartbreaking news of how her marriage, which produced two daughters, crashed. She has since bounced back to the industry with the production of a movie yet to be released.

THE GOOD

WEDDING BELLS

Lizzy Anjorin and Jibo Morgan

Popular Yoruba actress and mother of one, Elizabeth Anjorin, finally married her long-time lover, Jibo Morgan in June. The marriage took place in a secret venue in La­gos with few friends and family members in attendance.

IK Ogbonna and Sonia Morales

Nollywood actor, IK Ogbonna and fiancée, Sonia Morales, officially tied the knots on Monday June 29, 2015 in Serbia, Columbia; hometown of the bride. Their marriage came a few days after the love­birds welcomed their first child together the same month.

Gbenro Ajibade and Osas Ighodaro

Actors, Gbenro Ajibade and Osas Igho­daro got married on Saturday July 4, 2015 in New York. Both had met on the set of Tinsel, a soap opera running on DStv. One thing led to the other and they got married.

Chita Agwu and John Maduabuchi

Nollywood sexpot, Chita Agwu, was taken to the altar on Saturday June 20 by her Malaysia-based fiancé, John Madu­abuchi. It was indeed a glamorous church wedding.

Mimi Orjiekwe and Charles Billion

On Saturday July 18, 2015, Mimi Orjiekwe and Charles Billion wedded in Umuelem Village, Ichieke Achi, Udi in Oji River Local Government Area of Enugu State. This came after many years of court­ship.

Tonto Dikeh and Churchill Oladunni

2015 was a good year for controversial actress, Tonto Dikeh. It was the year she surprisingly got married. The light-skinned diva got married to her heartthrob, Oladun­ni Churchill, in a traditional ceremony held on August 30, 2015. The white wedding would hold soon.

Chris Attoh and Damilola Adegbite

Nollywood stars, Chris Attoh and Dami­lola Adegbite sealed their relationship with a marriage ceremony this year. The pair got married in a star-studded ceremony on Valentine’s Day. Both had also met on the set of Tinsel.

Lilian Esoro and Ubi Franklin

The lovebirds got hooked up on Novem­ber 1, 2015. This came shortly after they had legalised their union on Thursday October 15, 2015 at the Ikoyi marriage registry. The couple had earlier held their introduction on August 22, which caught the industry by surprise.

Mofe Duncan and Jessica Kakkad

Actor cum TV personality, Mofe Dun­can, married his girlfriend of many years, Jessica Kakkad in a star-studded ceremony this year. The couple had their traditional wedding on August 20 while their white wedding held in Lagos on Saturday, August 22.

Susan Peters and Dr Croon

Nollywood actress, Susan Peters married her Dutch husband, Dr Croon on Saturday October 10. The wedding came as a sur­prise to many. A well-attended traditional wedding followed it on October 24.

Baby boom

Actress, Uche Jombo-Rodriquez wel­comed a son with her husband, Kenney Rodriguez in May while popular Yoruba ac­tor, Yomi Black welcomed a child with his beautiful wife in July. Also, in July, Karen Igho-Rakos and hubby, Yaroslav Rakos, who got married in a low-key ceremony, had a son together.

Bald head actor, IK Ogbonna, who married his Colombian girlfriend, Sonia Morales this year, both welcomed a son together on June 20. The same way Nolly­wood bad boy, Jim Iyke and his Lithuanian girlfriend welcomed a son on September 6.

Actress wife of Iroko TV boss, Mary Remmy Njoku, welcomed another child a few years into their marriage. The baby boy was born in August. For Yoruba movie actor, Odunlade Adekola, it’s another baby boy. His wife, Ruth gave birth to a baby boy on Monday November 23 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, thus making it four boys for the couple.

In October, Stephanie Okereke-Linus delivered a bouncing baby boy, which came some years after her glamorous wedding in Paris, France. However, for 31-year-old actress, Mercy Johnson-Okogie, it’s three in a row. She delivered a baby girl on Friday December 11 at the University of Maryland (St. Joseph Medical Centre) Baltimore, United States of America.

Movies premieres

Produced by Mo Abudu, CEO, Ebonylife TV, Fifty’s premiere was held at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos on Sunday December 13, 2015. It was attended by the crème de la crème of Lagos society. The movie had a stellar cast of four women including Iretiola Doyle, Omoni Oboli, Nse Ikpe-Etim and Dakore Egbuson.

Genevieve Nnaji stunned her fans when she bounced back to the movie industry with Road To Yesterday, a movie she co-produced alongside Chinny Onwug­benu and Chichi Nwoko. The star-studded premiere of the movie held at the closing night of the 2015 African International Film Festival (AFRIF) on Friday November 13.

After a successful screening in the United Kingdom, Stephanie Linus finally got to premiere her movie, Dryat the Silverbird Galleria, Victoria Island, Lagos. It was graced by popular faces in the movie industry. The movie has also clinched some awards within few months of its release.

Chigozie Atuanya, in partnership with Stella Oduah Foundation, premiered his high budget blockbuster entitled, Chetanna, in Awka, Anambra State. The epoch-making event, which held at Marble Arch Hotel and Event Centre, Akwa, indisputably shook the ancient city to its very foundation

Delectable actress, Omoni Oboli, made a huge statement in Nollywood when she returned with another captivating movie, The First Lady, in which she played the character of a prostitute. Oboli has been so spectacular in 2015, little wonder she clinched The Sun’s Nollywood Personality of the Year Award.

Endorsements

Five months after he inked an endorse­ment deal with Air France, notable film­maker, Kunle Afolayan hit a big one again. He was recently unveiled as brand ambassa­dor of Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN). With his mouth watering endorsement, the filmmaker emerged as the first person to of­ficially drive and own the 2015/2016 edition of Peugeot 508.

Others who got endorsements this year include Yul Edochie, who was made ambassador of Phamatex Pharmaceutical company, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde and her second daughter, Meraiah, became brand ambassadors of Knorr cube while Mercy Aigbe- Gentry was made the face of Prestige Cosmet­ics Nigeria.

A lot of criticisms of the picture were based on the fact that it was not ideal for him to kiss the little girl, and then go as far as posting the image on the internet

Femi Adebayo kissing daughter on the lips, the picture that started the controversy online.

Responding to the criticisms, the actor deleted the image and shared another which had him and his daughter in a decent pose.

He captioned it: “1^st love, #wcw, I’m not a fan of negativity, 2 my diehard fans thank you.”

Femi Adebayo and daughter, the new image he posted after he deleted the previous one seen as contgroversial.

The 42-year-old actor is also a lawyer and movie producer.

He made his acting debut in 1995 in Owo Blow, a movie by Tade Ogidan. He also featured in the critically-acclaimed movie October 1 which was released in 2014.

Kiki Omeili Speaks On Her Dream Man, Piracy In Nollywood

Kiki Omeili is a Nigerian actress best known for her antagonistic role in the 2012 feature film “Married But Single” as Titi Haastrup. The Anambra-born doctor cum actress speaks with Esther Odili about her journey to stardom, dream husband, piracy and what she would like to change in Nollywood.

Why did you chose acting in spite your medical training and when did start professionally?

The choice to act was borne out of my passion for the arts, even though I’m trained in the sciences. I started acting professionally in August 2011.

Your life as a doctor cum actress, presenter. What has been the experience?

It’s been challenging but rewarding. It hasn’t been very easy but we thank God for all the progress made so far. Some people initially didn’t want to give me chance as a doctor. They didn’t believe I could do it.

How do you manage both professions?

At the moment, I don’t actively practice medicine. But i’m involved in health works and i try to give back to humanity as often as I can.

When was your experience first time on set?

First time on set was for the TV series ‘‘Behind the smile” directed by Tunde Olaoye. The experience was quite worthwhile. Whenever we finish shooting a scene, he would say “next scene”. So that gave me the confidence that I was doing good.

Kiki Omeli

What movies brought you to limelight?

I would say “Married but single” and “Lekki housewives”.

What would you consider before picking a script?

I would consider the story, if it has a message, the diversity of the character. I like to play different roles and not get stuck doing the same thing repeatedly. I like to push and challenge myself as a fast rising actress.

You’ve gained much recognition and your works has received wide acceptance, what’s the secret?

I’d say its hard word, perseverance and total dedication to what i do.

Can you describe the movie industry of the past and its present state, any improvement so far?

Definitely! There has been a lot of improvement. People take the business of filmmaking more seriously now and are actually trained in the art of filmmaking. They better understand the dynamics attached to making a film. In the past, there wasn’t a lot of attention to detail but there is now.

What’s your opinion of the enormous migration of artist in the movie industry into politics, other sectors and businesses?

I would say if you’re capable of doing more than one thing and using your popularity for a good cause, then you should go for it.

You featured more in TV Series to Movies, why?

Not necessarily. I do both in equal measures. Actually at the moment do more films than TV series. There’s no special reason just take on projects that have a good story.  As long as it’s a good story and it’s a good character that I can adequately interprete, it doesn’t matter whether it’s a movie or a TV series.

You are known for best interpretation of antagonistic roles, how do you balance such with your life off the scene?

ohhh I do not only play antagonistic roles, but those seem to be the roles that people enjoy for whatever reason. As soon as I’m off set, i’m off set and back to my normal life.

What’s the major challenge confronting Nollywood presently?

Nollywood is confronted with a lot of challenges. There’s the challenge of funding. People are not willing to invest in film and without good funds you cannot make good films. Then there’s the challenge of epileptic power supply, there’s the issue of piracy.

What’s that thing you would change in the movie industry if you were to be in a position of authority?

I would put in place a very strict penalty for pirates. They shouldn’t be allowed to reap where they didn’t sow.

Your special moments?

Any moment when someone works up to me appreciating what I do and tells me how they learnt so much from. Any movie I do is a special moment to me.

Looking back, would you say you’ve realised your dreams?

To a large extent, yes. But there’s still so much work to do.

What unique features do you possess and what distinct you from others in the industry?

I’m absolutely dedicated to whatever I do.

What have you gained and lost being a celebrity?

I would say I’ve gained influence and obviously lost privacy.

Your closest friends in the industry and how well do you relate with your colleagues?

I have a very good relationship with my colleagues. Actors understand each other. Understand the joys, the struggles and the pains of being an actor. So there’s generally a good rapport among us when we are together.

Describe Nollywood movies and its significance to the society?

Nollywood movies are typically movies that tell stories that the average individual can relate to. And they are significant to society in that they teach moral lessons and make people aware of things that they may ordinarily not have taken into cognizance.

How do you cope with the competition in the industry?

By carving a niche for myself, making sure I stand out.

What are the factors that give rise to piracy in Nollywood as a whole and what role should the government play in curbing piracy?

Piracy is borne out of greed. People wanting to reap where they did not sow and making money off people’s hard work. The government should strengthen the Nigerian copyright commission and ensure that harsh penalties are in place for pirates.

What’s the Nigeria of your dream?

The Nigeria of my dream is one Nigeria, a Nigeria where there’s no tribalism. A Nigeria where there’s constant power and good roads, a Nigeria with a thriving economy, where corruption is a thing of the past.

Any plan of becoming a producer in the future?

Definitely. Sometimes you have to create opportunities for yourself and do things your own way

Interesting things your fans don’t know about you?

I like singing and I know the lyrics of songs

Advise for young and upcoming actress looking up to you as a role model?

They should work hard and don’t give up. Believe in themselves, believe in their dreams and they shouldn’t let anybody force them what they cannot do.

Compare and contrast Nollywood and Hollywood?

They’re both movie industries but they tell different kinds of stories and Hollywood has a lot more capital at their disposal to make the kinds of movies they want to make.

Words for your fans and what they should be expecting from you?

There’s a lot of works in pipeline to look out for Lekki wives 3, gbomo gbomo

express, the trials of Igho, to name a few.

Your ideal man?

When I see him, I’ll recognize him.

Watching the Best of Nollywood Awards

Best of Nollywood (BON), the event, is an annual awards show which started around 2009. As its name suggests, BON seeks to reward Nollywood actresses, actors and other practitioners. This year’s edition of BON took place in Ondo State, Sunday December 13. It had the creme de la creme (or the ‘who de la who’) of Nollywood in attendance. Host Governor Olusegun Mimiko was also on hand and he gave a heartwarming address which could be summed up as an affirmation of his love and support for the industry. And as ‘an unapologetic fan’ of Nollywood Governor Mimiko was wonderful host..

I joined the live broadcast of the awards on Hip TV, Dstv channel 324 around midnight as I’d been following the announcement of winners on social networking site-Twitter. You could say I was a late comer to the party. But from the little I saw of the event, it seemed like guests were having fun.Things didn’t appear stiff and stuffy as seen in many an award show in these parts. Turnout also appeared to quite substantial. All in all, I bet the organizers have given themselves a pat (or several pats) on the back for a generally good run for BON.

Anyhow, I could quibble about the ‘inappropriateness’ of the dressing of some Nollywood stars. While many, especially women, were glamorously turned out, a few looked like they were on their way to have a drink with the boys. Also, if I wanted I could raise one or two points about some of the winners like Tales Of Eve beating Hotel Majestic to ‘TV Series of The Year’. Plus, what was with people passing the mic like Usain Bolt and teammates in an IAAF relay event? A podium of sorts could’ve ensured the winners, at least, had a befitting place to stand to utter some words of acceptance. But that could be viewed as quibbling.

Notwithstanding, my main interest is the televised event, the quality of it, that is. As far as that goes, I’ll quibble as much as I want. I watched the show as earlier mentioned on HipTV for about an hour ‘till fade’-I think the show was replaced (rather unceremoniously) by another programme while musical artiste Adekunle Gold (real name Adekunle Kosoko) was performing. I suppose it became a case of free for all ‘Dance, Dance, Dance’.

And so speaking of the TV coverage of BON, my main grouse was with the quality of the visuals. There was a certain dark-ish hue/quality to them that I couldn’t fathom. It was as if pictures/shots had ‘contracted’. The stage appeared stretched. This made presenters of awards and presenters look shorter than their actual height. I’m sure there’s a better, a more technical way to explain this but you do get my drift?
Who was responsible for what viewers saw of the BON Awards 2015 on Hip TV, the station or BON organizers? If Hip TV, I’ve seen better coverage of live events on the channel. BON organizers? Didn’t look like it. Be that as it may, as a viewer, I couldn’t really care who’s in charge of TV coverage even if it’s my local video guy from my village Lampese. At the end of the day, all I want is a well-produced event.

Thus, I’ll like to suggest to BON organizers: Next time, be in charge of TV coverage and control what gets aired. After watching the House On The Rock organized ‘The Experience’ live (December 4, 2015), my faith has been restored: It’s possible to have everything (or most of it) viewers have yearned for in a live TV coverage: Clear, sharp pictures. Intelligent directing that helps the viewer follow the ‘story’. Ultimately, TV that transports you to the event. Actually, it gives you a better view because through the director, the cameras do the hard work for you as a viewer.
  

I appreciate the efforts of BON’s CEO Seun Oloketuyi and his team. It cannot be an easy task assembling such an impressive array of Nollywood stars outside of Lagos, Nigeria’s entertainment hub. The next challenge is to fine tune and control (quality) what’s beamed to the viewer.
 

After all, if we are talking about the Best Of Nollywood, what better way to show this than through a top notch TV coverage?

Exclusive: Ibinabo hits hard on Emeka Ike

…..He is after the monetary contributions of members

In a battle that seems continuous, Actors Guild President (AGN), Ibinabo Fiberesima-Egbuka, has criticised actor Emeka Ike disclosing that there was no election that made him the president of the Guild. Ibinabo Fiberisima-Egbuka noted that she remains the president of the Guild until her tenure elapses. She further disclosed that although a court judgment was presented, she added that the ruling has been appealed against.

Although effort was made by members of the guild to reconcile both parties but Ibinabo was of the opinion that Emeka is not about running a guild but about how much he can make from poor people to make up salaries and food for himself. She further said: “Emeka used to be my friend but not anymore because you don’t have a friend that does what he is doing presenting; one must learn how to grow because I have grown’.

“There is always chaos in AGN but since I took over, there have been peace, members have started gaining things; a guild must be run with the interest of the people at heart not a family business’.

BON Awards: When Nollywood stars light up Akure

The sleepy city of Akure, the Ondo State capital reverberated last Sunday night, when Nollywood stars and other stakeholders took turns to walk the red carpet and pose for shots as this year’s edition of the Best of Nollywood Awards, BON, held amid glitz and glamour in the state.

The awards ceremony, which held at the Ultra-Modern Dome of the International Event Centre, Akure, indisputably shook the ancient city to its very foundation.

Gov. Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State with Seun Oloketuyi and Gbenga Adeyinka at the event

The likes of Zeb Ejiro, Nobert Young, Segun Arinze, Femi Branch, and Tade Ogidan who received a special recognition award for his outstanding achievements in the nation’s film industry alongside former president Goodluck Jonathan, Godswill Akpabio, and Patience Ozokwor, were among the Nollywood oldies that lighted up the event which was anchored by vibrant actor Gideon Okeke and Bimbo Akintola.

Meanwhile, the high point of the event was the presentation of awards to the deserving winners. The biggest winners of the night were Stephanie Okereke’s advocacy film, “Dry”, which won three awards, Best Cinematography, Best Screenplay and Movie with the Best Social message, Kunle Afolanyan’s “October 1” won Best Production Design, Best Actor and Best Costume Awards while Lancelot Imasuen’s “Invasion 1897”won awards for the Best Movie of the Year, Best Director and Best Soundtrack.

Other winners on the night include,Sadiq Daba who won the Best Actor in a leading role (English)for his role in Kunle Afolayan’s “October 1″, Kalu Ikeagwu( Best Supporting Actor), Nse Ikpe Etim won Best Actress(English) for her role in “Stolen Water”, while Fathia Balogun of the Yoruba genre(Best Actress). Best Actress award in an Igbo movie went to Queen Nwokoye for her role in Chetanaa” while Ejike Asiegbu’s son, Etochi picked Best Child Actor award for his role in “ Little Ryan. Aldo, Best Kiss award went to “Koseanne Marcel and Seun Akindele for the exotic role the played in “One Minute Man”.

According to BON Head of jury, Niran Adedokun, about 150 films were entered for the 40 categories this year after which it was streamlined to 60 films. “We will honour 38 winners in the competitive categories while there will be about six honorary awards,” Adedokun said.

Adedokun lamented the dearth of indigenous movies, saying ” some of our indigenous languages may go into extinction if we do not make conscious efforts to entrench them. Films remain one of the most useful vehicles for this purpose and that is the opportunity BON offers.”

“We were interested in how much the film makers were able to to tell the African stories and the unrestrained access to those stories with the language and culture of filmmaking. We go the extra mile to see those things which are essentially a promotion of the Nigerian culture.”

Speaking further, he said, “Without any fear of contradiction, this jury would like to register the fact that movie making in Nigeria has taken a great leap. From the quality of stories and the treatment of those stories, to the quality of acting, competent interpretation of roles, to directing, scenery and photography. We also saw some very daring and innovative attempts to go beyond the norm in the movies submitted this year. And at the end of it, one can say boldly that Nigeria filmmakers have this last one year, moved steps towards excellence, in spite of all the odds.”

I wasn’t expecting to win any award — Lancelot

Speaking shortly after the event, Lancelot Imasuen expressed satisfaction with the organization of the awards. Specifically, he disclosed that he wasn’t expecting to win any award at the event.

“I am elated tonight. Iam actually overwhelmed because I didn’t attend this event hoping to pick any award. Not because one wasn’t sure of what he was capable of doing, or the impression the film has created in the minds of the people but the fear that the judges might not be honest enough in their selection.

“For Invasion 1897, it is a dream come through. We won four awards at ZAFAA and we have achieved the same feast at BON. I was disappointed that we didn’t win the special effects award. It was the only award I was hoping to win. There is no special way to end the year than carting these awards away.Also, it is not only winning the Best film of the year that excites me, but winning the best director award. I won the best director from ZAFAA and I have also won the best director from BON.”

Omowunmi goes emotional on stage! 

One of the queens of the awards night was Omowunmi Dada. The rising actress cum TV presenter was adjudged BON Best Supporting Actress of the Year for her role as Peju in “Ojuju.” Dressed in topless blue gown, the actress was all smiles. But when she climbed the stage to receive the award, Omowunmi broke down in tears, saying “This is my first ever award as a actor.”
“I have been recognized before now as an actress but for my work and creativity, this is the very first award I would be getting and it means a lot to me,”she told HVP. Omowunmi further said that winning the award came to her as a big shock given the quality of the actresses that were nominated in the same category with her.

My state will go into film production—Mimko

Elated Governor Olusegun Mimiko demonstrated how much passion he has for the industry. When it was time for him to address the gathering, the governor revealed that he was a huge fan of the Nigerian movies and he was even more glad because his state has been monumental to the growth of the industry.

“Most Nollywood practitioners are from Ondo State. Ondo is actually the home of Nollywood. I congratulate Nollywood and I am a fan of the industry.’ the governor revealed. He called on more investors to take advantage of the huge prospects in the Nigerian movie industry, stressing that Nollywood is one of the major exports from the country.

“For many people, Nollywood is the identity of Nigeria. I want to call on more investors to invest in Nollywood, because Ondo State would soon start investing in Film Production. Nollywood is one of the best exports Nigeria has, and it contributes almost two per cent to Nigeria’s GDP,” the governor said.

Lekki Wives final season 3 out on DVD

Talented filmmaker, Blessing Effiom Egbe, has announced that the season three edition of the Lekki Wives is finally out on DVD.

In a bid to maintain their lifestyles, the Lekki Wives keep finding new and dramatic ways to meet their set goals in third and final season of series.

The season 3 of ‘Lekki Wives’ stars Adaorah Ukoh, Deyemi Okanlawon, Keira Hewatch, Anthony Monjaro, Chinonso Young, Ayoola, Katherine Obiang, Bayray Mcnwizu, Sylvya Oluchy, Bobby Michaels and Kachi Nnochiri.

Lekki Wives is written, produced and directed by Blessing Egbe.

Okonjo-Iweala, Ben Bruce, Genevieve dazzle at Beast of No Nation’s premiere

It was a star-studded event. And it was full of glamour and razzmatazz usually associated with the movie premiere of its kind. Indeed, the grand premiere of the highly acclaimed movie, Beast of No Nation, which took place at the Silverbird Galleria, Victoria Island, Lagos last Friday, will not be forgotten in a hurry.

The film, which features top acts like British-born Hollywood actor, Idris Elba, was earlier released on October 16 via streaming platform, Netflix. Following its screening in Canada, Italy, and London, the movie is now being shown in cinemas across Nigeria and Ghana courtesy Silverbird Film Distributions.

In attendance at the premiere last weekend were Idris Elba and co-star, Abraham Attah, the young Ghanaian prodigy who played Agu in the film. Both stars were accompanied to the red carpet by Senator Ben Murray Bruce, CEO, Silverbird Group and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, former Finance Minster.

Others celebrities that graced the event included Nollywood stars like Genevieve Nnaji, Nse Ikpe Etim, Adesua Etomi, Yolanda Okereke, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Shawn Faqua, Wale Ojo, Bobby Michaels, Enyinna Nwigwe, Deyemi Okanlawon, Rukky Sanda, Uduak Oguamanam, Sambasa Nzeribe, Makida Moka, Somkele Iyamah, Damilola Adegbite, and Gbenro and Osas Ajibade.

Adapted from a 2005 novel of the same title by Uzodima Iweala, son of Okonjo-Iweala and shot in Ghana, the film was written for screen and directed by Cary Fukunaga.

Beast of No Nation is the story of a young boy, Agu (Abraham Attah) and his struggle for survival as his country goes through a horrific war. Describing the film as “a disruptive success”, Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer, Netflix, said three million viewers have already seen it across the world. The movie has earned Idris Elba a Golden Globe and SAG Awards nominations.

Nollywood superstar hits one million Instagram followers

Nollywood actress, Genevieve Nnaji, has now hit one million followers.