Nollywood stars, creators, and members of the creative community were recently treated to a fun-filled night at the behest of YouTube, in Lagos.
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Tagged Celebration of Nollywood on Africa Day, The event celebrated the enchanting world of Nollywood and noted the significance of African storytelling through cinema, paying tribute to the creators who bring these narratives to life.
Acclaimed actors, talented producers, and influential film community members enlivened the event, contributing to the celebratory ambiance, just as the event showcased the dynamic culture and creativity of Africa, emphasising the significant role that Nollywood plays in shaping global perceptions and narratives.
Among the over 150 attendees, including prominent celebrities and influential personalities from the industry were veteran actress Sola Sobowale; Adeyemi Okanlawon; AMVCA comedian of the year, Samuel Perry, known professionally as Broda Shaggi; AMVCA Best Actress in a Comedy, Bimbo Ademoye; Debo Adedayo aka Mr. Macaroni, Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, and Lateef Adedimeji.
Top Nigerian YouTube content creators such as Apaokagi-Greene Maryam aka Taaooma, and Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Amuzie aka Brainjotter, Tech YouTube, Eric Okafor, and Muhammed Gilmore, also graced the event.
A panel discussion addressing Nollywood’s growth and the potential of digital technology in the industry was among the sessions that were held at the event.
Some of the panelists that featured include the CEO, of Murphy Ben International, Aforevo Murphy Ben; Nollywood actress and movie producer, Rahama Sadau, and YouTube content creator Taaooma, all of whom shared invaluable insights on leveraging digital technology for industry growth and scalability.
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YouTube’s EMEA Managing Director for Emerging Markets, Alex Okosi, who joined virtually, in his remarks, acknowledged the significant impact of Nollywood, and the transformative power of storytelling. He emphasised the outfit’s dedication to partnering with Nollywood and serving as a platform where meaningful stories are shared and celebrated globally.
In his words: “Your work is reshaping global narratives about Africa and Nigeria. It’s not merely entertainment – it’s powerful, transformative, and making a real difference. The stories you tell, and the emotions that you evoke, resonate with audiences worldwide. YouTube is privileged to partner with you and to provide a platform where these impactful narratives can be shared and celebrated globally.”
The Interim Country Lead at Google Nigeria, Olumide Balogun, shed light on YouTube’s commitment to supporting and promote the Nollywood industry through the promotion of movies, actors, producers, and other industry members. He outlined a two-month-long programme designed to spur the growth of Nollywood on YouTube.
“In a world full of diverse stories, YouTube has remained committed to supporting black creatives across the globe, recognising their invaluable contributions to the platform and beyond. This commitment is exemplified by initiatives such as the #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund, a global fund aimed at amplifying Black voices and perspectives and facilitating the creation of fresh narratives that educate audiences about racial justice. With a sense of deep gratitude for the creative community, YouTube is devoted to fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard, respected, and empowered.
“As we look forward to supporting the continued growth of Nollywood on the platform, YouTube humbly anticipates the array of new narratives that will continue to enrich our global community.”
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