NFVCB to honour 22 Nollywood icons hitting milestone ages at 2025 digital content conference
Maureen Aguta
The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has announced a major highlight of the 2025 edition of the Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulatory Conference—a special honour initiative celebrating 22 Nollywood stars and legends who turn 50 and 60 this year.
The conference, scheduled for November 18 and 19, 2025, at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, will spotlight practitioners whose contributions have shaped Nigeria’s film history and expanded Nollywood’s global influence.
Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NFVCB, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, said the tribute is designed to recognize exceptional creatives who have dedicated decades to elevating the film industry.
According to him, the initiative underscores the Board’s commitment to celebrating the individuals whose artistic impact has enriched national culture and amplified Nollywood’s reach.
“Nollywood’s strength lies in the people who give life to its stories,” Dr. Husseini said. “Honouring those who have invested years of excellence is both a responsibility and a privilege.”
A Carefully Curated Maiden Edition
For the inaugural edition, the NFVCB selected 22 practitioners who reached milestone ages within 2025, ensuring the event remains intimate and meaningful.
The honourees include Rita Dominic, Ngozi Ezeonu, Segun Aina Padonu, Desmond Olusola Elliot, Atoyota Akpobome (Ali Baba), Ahmed Sarari, Afeez Bello, Adebayo Tijani, Achibi Sam Dede, Lilian Amah, Eucharia Anunobi, Taiwo Adeleye, Seyi Siwoku, Jude Chukwuka, Kingsley Ogoro, and former DGN President Sir Bond Emeruwa, among others.
Dr. Husseini described the group as a broad representation of Nollywood’s most influential actors, filmmakers, comedians, and behind-the-screen contributors—individuals whose resilience and creative journeys continue to inspire both audiences and emerging talents.
Toward a Culture of Institutional Recognition
The NFVCB boss noted that this year’s celebration marks the beginning of a long-term institutional effort to honour Nollywood practitioners consistently.
“We are starting with this select group, but this is only the first step,” he said. “From next year, the honour roll will expand to celebrate veterans turning 70 and above—those whose early sacrifices laid the foundation for today’s vibrant Nollywood ecosystem.”
2025 Conference Theme and Keynote
This year’s conference will be held under the theme: “From Volume to Value: The Future of Nollywood in the Digital Age.”
The keynote address will be delivered by acclaimed theatre and film producer, Bolanle Austen-Peters, widely regarded as one of the leading figures bridging stage, cinema, and global streaming platforms.
The Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulatory Conference has become a pivotal platform for discussing emerging trends, digital policy, and the evolving future of Nollywood. The introduction of a structured honour roll is set to add a new cultural dimension to the event—one that celebrates legacy while shaping the industry’s future.