Kwara State became the epicentre of Nigeria’s film industry on Sunday night, as Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq hosted the 16th edition of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards at the state-of-the-art Sugar Factory Film Studio in Ilorin.
The governor welcomed some of the biggest names in Nollywood to the state, urging them to explore Kwara’s cutting-edge facilities and unique environment for their future projects.
Governor Abdulrazaq highlighted the significance of the BON Awards as a celebration of excellence in the Nigerian movie industry.
He commended the organisers for choosing Kwara as the venue for the prestigious event, positioning the state as a burgeoning hub for quality cinematography, tourism, and creative industries.
“I warmly welcome you all to Kwara State, and thank you for honouring 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,” the Governor said.
He further emphasised that the Sugar Factory Film Studio represents his administration’s commitment to the creative economy.
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“This facility offers state-of-the-art resources to enhance movie production, build local capacity, conserve foreign exchange, and boost our economy,” he added.
The governor also showcased Kwara’s expanding creative ecosystem, which includes notable projects like the Visual Arts Centre, Ilorin Innovation Hub, International Conference Centre, the remodelled Kwara Hotel, and natural attractions such as Owu Falls and Sobi Hill.
He highlighted Kwara’s accessible road networks, proximity to an international airport, and robust sports facilities as key factors that make the state an ideal destination for both creative and leisure activities.
As part of the event, the governor acknowledged the contributions of Nollywood stars and stakeholders to national development, urging them to consider Kwara for their future projects, vacations, and creative endeavours.
The BON Awards 2024 was graced by some of Nollywood’s finest actors, including Fred Amata, Hilda Dokubo, Gloria Anozie, Ayo Magaji, Toyin Abraham, and Kanayo O. Kanayo, who received a lifetime achievement award from Governor Abdulrazaq.
Other big winners included Femi Adebayo, who took home the Best Actor of the Year award along with three others for his role in Jagun Jagun, and Wumi Dada, named Best Actress for her performance in Unknown Soldier. Both stars received N5 million worth of wardrobe funds, courtesy of Ilorin-based firm Wura Fadaka.
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The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the First Lady of Kwara State, Amb. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, House of Representatives member Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya, and various political, cultural, and business leaders.
Renowned thespian Patrick Doyle praised the governor for transforming Ilorin into a clean and beautiful city, while other guests, including Samuel Olatunji (Big Sam) and Seun Oloketuyi, lauded the state’s infrastructure and growing influence in the creative sector.
Seun Oloketuyi, founder of the BON Awards, expressed his gratitude to Governor Abdulrazaq and his team for showcasing Kwara as a rising force in Nigeria’s creative landscape.
