Wins Industry Merit Award

As Sola Sobowale Bags Industry Merit Award

Veteran Nollywood actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo, has called for an end to xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
Kanayo made the appeal at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) after receiving the Industry Merit Award.

Speaking during his acceptance speech, he dedicated the recognition to African film practitioners across the continent.

“This is for Africa, for everyone who works as cast and crew. Even before 1992, many of us are no longer in good health, many have returned to their villages, and many have passed on,” he said.

“Sometimes, when you stand on a stage like this, you ask yourself, ‘What have I done to still be alive?’ Yes, I have made a lot of sacrifices. I want to extend a hand of friendship to Canal+, please keep this going. This is one thing that unites the whole of Africa.”

Kanayo also used the opportunity to condemn the rising wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

“On this note, I am not happy about what is going on in South Africa today. Let us lend our voices against xenophobia in South Africa. We are not happy. As Africans, we cannot continue running from Africa,” he added.
Veteran actress Sola Sobowale, who also received the Industry Merit Award, expressed gratitude to her fans and colleagues for their unwavering support throughout her career.

“I appreciate the support and love. Without my friends, supporters, directors, colleagues, and producers, there is no Sola. Thank you all for making me still relevant. Mi o ti de (Expect more from me). I love you all,” she said.