The people behind the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards have picked Enugu State to host the 18th edition of the ceremony. It is set for November, but the exact date and venue are not revealed yet.
In a statement to PREMIUM TIMES on Monday, the organisers noted that the event will bring together filmmakers, actors, and other entertainment industry figures in the South-east for Nigeria's annual celebration of cinema.
They mentioned that guests will be arriving through the newly launched Enugu Air. This is part of the state government's plan to boost transport options to Akanu Ibiam International Airport, both for local and international travel.
The organisers said the awards will be more than just a celebration of film and entertainment. They see it as a chance to showcase Governor Peter Mbah’s $30 billion tourism economy to the world.
They also pointed out that the ceremony will highlight six key tourism sites currently being developed in the state, thanks to global television coverage.
The organisers said: "As November approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Nollywood’s biggest stakeholders, actors, and producers are preparing to descend on Enugu."
"November in Enugu is shaping up to be an economic masterclass. Just as the BON Awards wrap up, the state will transition into hosting the 23rd National Sports Festival, the 'Coal City Games,' starting from 27 November."
Delegates and nominees will also visit Awhum Waterfall and Monastery, which is one of the attractions for the event.
They noted that the 5.32km Okpatu-Awhum Cable Car, one of the longest in Africa, will provide access to this site.
The itinerary includes the canopy walkways at the Nsude Pyramids, the Lejja Ancient Iron-Smelting Site, and the Ngwo Pine Forest, which has Nigeria’s first 400-metre zipline.
Other spots on the list include the Landmark Nike Lake Resort, which has West Africa’s second Upside-Down House, and the Centre for Memories (Ncheta Ndigbo), that showcases Igbo history and heritage.
BON founder Seun Oloketuyi visited the state in August to hand over the hosting rights to the governor, as reported by this newspaper.
His team included Feranmi Olaoye, the awards’ executive producer; Tomi Falade; actor Enyinna Nwigwe; and Olukizzy Michael.
In July, this newspaper said that veteran actor Pete Edochie, actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri, actress Peju Ogunmola, and filmmaker Steve Sodiya would receive Special Recognition Awards at the event.
According to the organisers, these four individuals earned their awards for their long-standing careers, mentorship, and impact on filmmakers and audiences.
Edochie’s award highlights his decades in acting and the way he portrays wise characters tied to African culture.
Kadiri will be honoured for her roles as an actress, producer, and screenwriter, along with her contributions to filmmaking on YouTube.
Ogunmola’s recognition comes from her work in Yoruba- and English-language films and her efforts to promote local culture through theatre and cinema.
Sodiya will receive his award for his work as a filmmaker, editor, and director, especially in talent development and production.
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