Nigerian actors and members of the creative community gathered at a YouTube event titled ‘Celebration of Nollywood on Africa Day.’
Africa Day is celebrated every year on 25 May. It is an opportunity to celebrate African diversity and success, and to highlight the cultural and economic potential that exists on the African continent.
The Africa Day was convened by then Prime Minister of Ghana Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and comprised representatives from Egypt (then a constituent part of the United Arab Republic), Ethiopia, Liberia, Libya, Morocco, Sudan, Tunisia, the Union of the Peoples of Cameroon and of the host country Ghana.
Africa Day (formerly African Freedom Day and African Liberation Day) is the annual commemoration of the foundation of the Organisation of African Unity on 25 May 1963.
It is celebrated in various countries on the African continent, as well as around the world. The organisation was transformed into the African Union on July 9, 2002 in Durban, South Africa, but the holiday continues to be celebrated on 25 May.
The YouTube event, held in Victoria Island, Lagos, celebrated the enchanting world of Nollywood and marked the significant contributions of African storytelling through the cinema.
It also paid tributes to the creators who bring these narratives to life.
The event welcomed 150 attendees and assembled prominent celebrities and influential personalities from the Nollywood industry.
Notable guests included Sola Sobowale, Bimbo Ademoye, Adeyemi Okanlawon, Mr. Macaroni, and Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman.
Top Nigerian YouTube content creators such as Taaooma, Broda Shaggi, and Brainjotter also graced the event.
Among the sessions at the event was a panel discussion addressing Nollywood’s growth and the potential of digital technology in the industry.
The panelists, including Murphy Ben, CEO of Murphy Ben International and Aforevo, Taaooma, and Rahama Sadau, shared insights on leveraging digital technology for industry growth and scalability.
Alex Okosi, YouTube EMEA managing director for emerging markets, delivered a speech acknowledging the significant impact of Nollywood and the transformative power of storytelling.
He emphasised YouTube’s dedication to partnering with Nollywood and serving as a platform where meaningful stories are shared and celebrated globally.
The event also showcased the dynamic culture and creativity of Africa, emphasising the significant role that Nollywood plays in shaping global perceptions and narratives.
