Senator Ganiyu Solomon has praised the resilience and growth of Nollywood, acknowledging its competitive status on the global stage.
Speaking at the premiere of the movie Okikiola The Fisherman, held at the Love of Christ Generation Church Hall in Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos, Solomon expressed delight at how far the Nigerian film industry has come.
He noted that Nollywood’s collaboration with both the federal and Lagos State governments has significantly helped showcase the potentials of the industry.
“Nollywood has come of age, and it’s now competing favorably with similar industries worldwide,” Solomon remarked.
He further lauded the perseverance of the movie’s writer, Adeola Agoro, urging other states to foster more support and collaboration for the film sector.
Solomon’s sentiments were echoed by Rev Mother Esther Abimbola Ajayi, the host of the event and founder of the Love of Christ Generation Church.
Rev Mother Ajayi, popularly known as Iya Adura, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in building Nigeria into a prosperous nation.
She stated that while leadership plays a critical role, every citizen must also contribute to achieving the country’s dreams.
Rev Mother Ajayi also praised the writer of the movie, Adeola Agoro, for her dedication and hard work, pledging her continued support for hardworking Nigerians.
“I will always support those with passion and vision for this country,” she said, adding that Nigeria has the potential to rise and compete globally if everyone works together.
The producer of the movie, Segun Ogungbe, said he felt privileged to have been assigned the role and worked on locations with Sisi Adeola Agoro.
According to him, he experienced shooting in riverine areas for the first time, adding that the movie Okikiola The Fisherman will compete favorably among its peers.
The highly delighted writer of the movie, Sisi Adeola Agoro, described the process as a worthwhile experience despite the challenges encountered during filming, with more than 100 cast members working over two months.
She explained that the movie demonstrates a love story centered around Baaj Adebule in the riverine area of Isheri Olofin.
According to Adeola, the movie also highlights the dangers inherent in greed, adding that the next step is to bring the film to cinemas and live-streaming platforms.
Some of the popular actors in the movie include Kunle Afolayan, Don Richard, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Fatiha Balogun.
The premiere of Okikiola The Fisherman brought together notable figures and celebrated Nollywood’s ongoing success.
The film, which centers on a love story in the riverine area of Isheri Olofin, is expected to be a strong contender in the film industry, featuring popular actors such as Kunle Afolayan, Don Richard, Bolanle Ninalowo, and Fatiha Balogun.
