Chief (Dr) Ken Chigozie Osunwa may not be widely recognized among Rivers State residents, but within the vibrant heart of Port Harcourt City, he has sparked a revolution in the movie industry.
Under his dynamic leadership as the Chairman of the Rivers chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Port Harcourt city is making significant strides towards establishing itself as a key player in the esteemed Nollywood community, joining cities like Lagos, Asaba, and Enugu.
On Saturday, June 15, 2024, the AGN Rivers chapter celebrated a significant milestone, as it hosted the long-awaited training and induction of new members at the Jay Queens Hotels, off Rumuola Road, Port Harcourt. The event marked by pomp and pageantry, underscored Dr. Osunwa’s relentless efforts to transform the local film landscape.
Indeed, the induction ceremony was more than just a formality – it represented a concerted push to elevate the standards and opportunities within the Rivers nay the Nigerian movie sector.
“We are not just onboarding new members,” explained Dr. Osunwa. “We are investing in their training, mentorship, and integration into a vibrant, collaborative ecosystem I’m delighted to have broken the thirty-year jinx by training and licensing new members.
“We ensured they received professional training, including sessions led by an associate professor. It was an explosive and awe-inspiring event.”
This systematic approach has already begun to bear fruit as according to one of the inductees, Dr. Joy Nwachukwu, the training and induction have been invaluable.
“I’ve gained crucial insights into the business and creative aspects of filmmaking, and I feel better prepared to navigate this industry.”, she said.
Beyond fostering individual growth, Dr. Osunwa’s vision extends to the broader community.
“We want to create an environment where movie productions thrive, where investors see the value in backing local talent, and where our stories reach global audiences,” he says.
“Today marked the culmination of a long journey towards expanding the cadre of actors and actresses in Nigeria’s film industry,” declared Dr.Osunwa, amidst cheers from the gathered crowd..
“We ensured they received professional training, including sessions led by an associate professor. It was an explosive and awe-inspiring event.”
Osunwa, expressed profound satisfaction at the exponential growth of the local film community.
He said the AGN Rivers chapter has forged strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, corporate sponsors, and industry organizations.
Speaking at the event, Veteran Hilda Dokubo, a renowned Nollywood actress said: “Dr. Osunwa has been a tireless advocate, securing support and resources that empower our members to excel,”
Another veteran and Nollywood Creative Designer, Millicent Jack added: “Dr. Osunwa has been the driving force behind this movement. Under his guidance, the AGN in Rivers is leading the charge to professionalize the industry and unlock the immense potential of our local talent.”.
As the drumbeat of progress echoes through the streets of Port Harcourt, it is clear that Dr. Osunwa’s leadership is catalyzing a new era for the movie industry in Rivers State.
“This is just the beginning,” he affirmed. “We are committed to nurturing a vibrant, sustainable film sector that will put Rivers on the global entertainment map.”
The one-day event attracted a notable assembly of veterans from the movie industry, including Millicent Jack, ChiefSon, Sir Gilbert Seperibo, Queen Wokoma, Prophet Oscar, Chief Lawrence, Allison Ogbu, Matthew Ajallis, Mr. Pius and OJ Endurance.
we also had the esteemed presence of Dr. Carol John, Bobby Ikegwuru, Biokpo West, Acho Chinedu, Joy Success, IB Nkem George, Peace Ibe, Madam Cletus, Long John, Innocent Okereke, Tobias Okeke Uzoechi, Romeo O. Romeo, and many others.