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In a compelling speech during the recent launch of the book ‘Making Movies the Nollywood Way’, prominent legal expert Dr. Muiz Banire SAN urged an immediate resurgence of the reading habit in Nigeria to address prevailing social problems.

The book, released by Seun Oloketuyi, the founder of Best of Nollywood (BON), provided an ideal setting for Dr. Banire’s appeal. It was unveiled on Sunday, September 7 at the Radisson Blu in Ikeja, Lagos. The occasion also marked the author’s birthday, turning it into a special celebration.

As per Dr. Banire, who provided a personal story to support his argument, he remembers how he felt when he gave copies of the King of Dubai’s autobiography to friends who aimed to become governors. To his surprise, after some time, he found out that most of them hadn’t read the book.

This highlights his view on the importance of reviving the reading culture to both record and educate.

Reiterating this view was the former speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji, who expressed concern that many accomplished Nigerians do not record their experiences for the advantage of others. He praised Oloketuyi’s book as a praiseworthy initiative to enhance understanding in the creative industry.

I am deeply convinced that one of the most significant challenges our nation faces, especially among this generation, is the lack of reading and writing. In the past, even when there were not enough books, people still read and possessed a stronger understanding of society. Now, even with the existence of social media, the culture of reading remains weak. Composing books like this serves as a means to safeguard knowledge and illustrate the true events occurring in our society.

Nigeria is a large country endowed with numerous resources, yet we rarely record anything. We are missing the essential data and statistics regarding our own situation. Due to this, rumors spread quickly—someone says something, another repeats it, and it is accepted without being checked. Accurate documentation via books is a means to combat false information.

Throughout my tenure in office, a fellow government member reviewed my resume and was taken aback, stating, ‘Mr. Speaker, I didn’t realize we had such well-educated individuals in the House of Assembly.’ This is due to the common belief that those in the House of Assembly are largely illiterate. We need to restore a culture of reading, writing, and record-keeping if we aim for a brighter future for our nation. Read it, absorb it, and spread the knowledge acquired.

The writer, Seun Oloketuyi, stated that his intention with the book is to act as a resource for young, ambitious creative individuals, giving them an opportunity to learn and receive guidance from accomplished professionals featured in the book. The publication has been praised by included filmmakers such as Biodun Stephen, Zik Zulu Okafor, and Yemi Morafa, who appreciated the publisher and recognized the important part the BON Awards have had in their professional growth.

During the event, the directors acknowledged the author’s perseverance and enthusiasm for the ongoing development of Nollywood.

As Yemi Morafa states, “film is not separate from the environment it exists in. The narratives we share are influenced by the society we reside in and the knowledge we possess. It’s remarkable to create a film in Nollywood; every filmmaker can confirm this. Therefore, for someone to engage with 21 filmmakers, each having unique experiences, in a single book, is impactful.”

Biodun Stephens, for her part, spent time expressing gratitude to the author, saying, “He has always been a strong supporter of my work. From my very first film, he consistently reminded me each year to submit my work for the BON Awards. He has always been there for me, and honestly, I don’t know what he sees in me sometimes, but his encouragement has been invaluable.”

I recall when I returned from film school, I realized that everything we learned overseas isn’t how things operate here. Nollywood is a very challenging industry; it’s only passion and love that keep you going. Creating a film in this environment is difficult. I’m glad that Mr BON has captured our struggles and our story. You can’t gain the knowledge we have from an academy; you can only learn it through experience. This provides a base for young and upcoming filmmakers.

Filmmaker Zik Zulu mentioned in his statement that he consistently recognized ambition in the writer.

My initial perception of him was that he appeared very young, and at first glance, he didn’t seem mature or capable enough for such a significant role. However, as I watched him, I recognized a sense of ambition, bravery, and a strong belief in his goals. I noticed resilience, drive, and commitment within him.

Support is the essence of our industry. We began filmmaking with funds we received from our parents, from the pockets of our brothers. Thus, Nollywood has endured a long journey through Golgotha. But now, Nollywood has penned the story of Nigeria.

The event, hosted by Gbenga Adeyinka D 1st, was attended by several notable individuals, including representatives of Oba Saheed Elegushi and Lagos State Tourism Commissioner Toke Benson. The occasion also featured actress Biola Adebayo, Barrister Pelumi Olajegbesi, Gboyega Akosile, Barrister Adetunji Adegboyega, Hon. Desmond Elliot, and other influential people, all coming together to honor a book focused on promoting education and development within Nigeria’s cherished film industry, Nollywood.

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