BoBTV Releases 2009 Honours List

The organisers of BoBTV - Africa’s premiere film and television programmes expo - have released the list of honours for the 2009 event. 
The list includes Nollywood actor, Nkem Owoh, much-admired veteran television and film actress Bukky Ajayi, television director, Zainab Bewell, pioneering Nollywood producer, Okechukwu Ogunjiofor, renowned broadcaster and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Broadcasting Corporation, Lekan Ogunbanwo; and the cast and crew of Jacob’s Cross on Mnet.
According to Amaka Igwe, BobTV festival director, recognising hardworking professionals who have contributed to the growth of the movie and television industry in Nigeria has become an integral part of the expo.
“We often fail to recognise the worthy contributions of our people while they are alive. Most times, it’s only after they die that we remember the good work they have done. We believe that this isn’t the best way to encourage people to give their best, and certainly, lack of recognition discourages up-coming talents to put in their best.”
Nkem Owoh was chosen in recognition of his immense talent and skill as actor, as exhibited in various characters he has brought to life in his long acting career.
Bukky Ajayi has achieved veteran status as an actress of note. Having put over four decades into stage, television and movie industry, she is one of the few actors whose exemplary careers remain a reference point, as well as an inspiration to many people.
Lekan Ogunbanwo is credited with revamping the Lagos State Broadcasting Corporation, the results of which can be seen in Eko 89.75FM, the new Radio Lagos, 107.5FM, the all Yoruba TV channel Amuludun and the much improved Lagos Television, LTV. We acknowledge also his contributions to the growth of Nollywood, particularly his support of the Yoruba film industry.
Okechukwu Ogunjiofor is known as the man who produced the film that brought about what is today known as Nollywood. His pioneering effort has led to a phenomenon that has attracted respect and criticism in equal measures.
Zainab Bewell has directed for television for over two decades. One of the leading lights of the creative industry in the north, she has also worked on the international scene and continues to bring quality works to the audience even today.
The cast and crew of Jacob’s Cross are being awarded for bringing a gripping television drama to the African audience. With excellent production values, superb acting and a storyline that navigates the borders of Nigeria and South Africa; Jacob’s Cross is much admired by its teeming fans and reinforces the fact that excellence can be achieved by productions on the African continent.
BoBTV shall host the awardees in Abuja. Films and works of the honourees shall be screened to a critical audience of filmmakers, press and other delegates. Q&A on the films that are screened and exclusive interviews shall also be the highlight of their stay in Abuja.
However, Hlomla Dandala, lead actor of Jacob’s Cross who has a strong following among fans of the Mnet series will be a guest at this year’s event, and will participate in various programmes, including a Q&A session hosted by Richard Mofe-Damijo immediately after the opening ceremony.