Apart from the 31 keenly contested categories at BON Awards annually, there is the ‘Special Recognition’ category, where eminent figures drawn from all works of life (including in the entertainment industry) are awarded specially for their stellar contribution to the growth of the homegrown Nollywood industry.
From Tade Ogidan to Former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, all of these distinguished individuals have been past recipients of the BON Special Recognition.
We present to you the three veterans who have been identified as the recipients of the 2016 prize with a spotlight on their achievement;
CHIKA CHUKWUNONSO OPALA, MON. MFR
Chief Zebrudaya alias 4.30 became popular for his self produced hit comedy series in the titled ‘New Masqurade’, which ran between 1983 – 1993. His character was an audience delight for his incorrect use of the English language. For as many that were old enough to see the series that year, you will agree that this fantastic thespian made those years memorable indeed. Suffice to say that he laid the pebble for what comedy actors of this generation built on today.
SOLA SOBOWALE
A writer, actor, producer and director; although the veteran became registered on the mind of the Nigerian audience for her role as ‘Toyin Tomato’, in the series ‘OH FATHER OH DAUGHTER’, Sola’s career dates back to productions such as the now rested ‘Village Headmaster’ , Mirror in the Sun, ‘Asewo To Re Mecca’, ‘Dangerous Twins’, ‘Family On Fire’, and most recently ‘The wedding Party’.
She learnt the thespian art under the tutelage of Adebayo Salami’s group known as Awada Kerikeri. In 2010, she scripted, produced and directed, ‘Ohun Oko Somida’.
FIDELIS DUKER
This renowned filmmaker needs no introduction; he is the director of the Abuja Int’l Film and Video Festival, a former president of the Director’s Guild of Nigeria. Duker has about 200 films to his credit. This Iconic filmmaker’s career dates back to 1988 where he wrote scripts for ‘Tales by Moonlight’, the popular Television program for kids, until 1992.
He took his time to study the working models in the film business before lunching; he was production manager between 1989 and 1991, before he started his own production. His debut as a producer was titled ‘ SKELETON’. Several stars that flood the industry today cut their teeth to fame through his productions.
BIG STORY
Governor Abdulrazaq Commits To Hosting 2025 BON Awards, Makes History As First To Host Consecutive Editions [PHOTOS]
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has announced his agreement to host the 2025 edition of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards in Ilorin, making him the first Governor in the event’s history to host it for two consecutive years. The Governor expressed his admiration for the 16th BON Awards, praising the event’s vibrant atmosphere and the engaging after-party that showcased the rich cultural and creative potential of Kwara State.
Held at the state-of-the-art Sugar Factory Film Studio in Ilorin, the BON Awards brought together top talents and stakeholders from Nigeria’s movie industry. Governor Abdulrazaq, who personally presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Nollywood icon Kanayo O. Kanayo, commended the organizers for their professionalism and the remarkable success of the event.
“The BON Awards have shown the immense possibilities of Ilorin as a center for creativity and entertainment. I was thrilled by the energy, talent, and warmth that defined this year’s edition. The after-party further reinforced our vision of Kwara as a hub for the creative economy, tourism, and hospitality,” the Governor said.
Governor Abdulrazaq emphasized his desire for Ilorin to become the permanent venue for the BON Awards, citing the city’s unique blend of modern infrastructure, serene environment, and rich cultural heritage.
“I would be honored to host next year’s edition of the BON Awards and beyond. Ilorin is ready to offer unmatched facilities and an enabling atmosphere to support events of this magnitude. With landmark projects like the Sugar Factory Film Studio, Visual Arts Centre, and remodeled Kwara Hotel, we are poised to set a new standard for hosting creative events,” he added.
The Governor extended his appreciation to the Nollywood stars and stakeholders for their significant contributions to the Nigerian creative industry and their warm embrace of Kwara as a destination for film and entertainment.
“We invite the creative community to consider Kwara not just for future productions but also as a home for their endeavors. Together, we can build a creative hub that reflects our shared aspirations for excellence and innovation,” he concluded.
The 16th BON Awards, which featured celebrated actors such as Femi Adebayo, Mercy Aigbe, Toyin Abraham, and many others, was a resounding success, with winners and attendees alike applauding the state’s infrastructure and hospitality.
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