In a powerful address at last week’s book unveiling of ‘Making Movies the Nollywood Way’, top lawyer and former Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Muiz Banire, SAN called for an urgent revival of the reading culture in Nigeria to correct societal ills.
The book, published by Best of Nollywood (BON) founder, Seun Oloketuyi, served as the perfect backdrop for Banire’s plea, and was launched on Sunday, September 7 at the Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Lagos.
Banire, who shared a personal anecdote to illustrate his point, recalled how he felt when he gifted copies of the King of Dubai’s memoirs to friends aspiring to be governors. To his dismay, upon follow-up months later, he discovered most of them had not read the book.
This underscores his sentiment on why reading culture must be revived to both document and instruct.
Echoing this sentiment was the immediate past speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, who lamented that many successful Nigerians fail to document their experiences for the benefit of others.
He described Oloketuyi’s book as a commendable effort to deepen knowledge within the creative sector.
The author, Oloketuyi, explained that his goal for the book is to serve as a tool for young, aspiring creative minds, offering them a chance to learn and be mentored by successful industry practitioners profiled within its pages.
The book received praise from featured filmmakers like Biodun Stephen and Yemi Morafa, who commended the publisher and acknowledged the significant role the BON Awards has played in their career development.
While speaking at the event, the two filmmakers both credited the author’s tenacity and passion for Nollywood’s continued growth.
Also in attendance at the event, were a host of dignitaries, including representatives of Oba Saheed Elegushi and Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Toke Benson. The gathering also saw the presence of actress Biola Adebayo, Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, Gboyega Akosile, Desmond Elliot, and other prominent figures, all united in celebrating a publication aimed at fostering knowledge and growth.
