- Safiu Kehinde
Former Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Muiz Banire (SAN), has called for the revival of reading culture in Nigeria to correct societal ills.
Banire made the call during his address at the book unveiling of ‘Making Movies the Nollywood Way’, written and published by the founder of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards, Seun Oloketuyi.
Speaking at the event held on Sunday at the Radisson Blu, Ikeja, Banire shared a personal anecdote to illustrate his point.
The former commissioner and renowned legal practitioner recalled how he felt when he gifted copies of the King of Dubai’s memoirs to friends aspiring to be governors.
As contained in a statement made available to NPO Reports on Wednesday, Banire expressed his dismay after discovering that most of them had not read the book.
This, according to the statement, underscored his sentiment on why reading culture must be revived to both document and instruct.
Echoing this sentiment was the immediate past speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ikuforiji, who lamented that many successful Nigerians fail to document their experiences for the benefit of others.
Ikuforiji described Oloketuyi’s book as a commendable effort to deepen knowledge within the creative sector.
In his address, Oloketuyi explained that his goal for the book is to serve as a tool for young, aspiring creative minds, offering them a chance to learn and be mentored by successful industry practitioners profiled within its pages.
The book received praise from featured filmmakers like Biodun Stephen and Yemi Morafa, who commended the publisher and acknowledged the significant role the BON Awards have played in their career development.
While speaking at the event, the two filmmakers both credited the author’s tenacity and passion for Nollywood’s continued growth.
Also in attendance at the event, were a host of dignitaries, including representatives of Oba Saheed Elegushi and Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism Toke Benson.
The gathering also saw the presence of actress Biola Adebayo, Barrister Pelumi Olajegbesi, Gboyega Akosile, Hon. Desmond Elliot, and other prominent figures, all united in celebrating a publication aimed at fostering knowledge and growth.