By Oluwaseyi Fadoro
Nollywood actors and actresses, gathered at Anchor Event centre Agidingbi Ikeja to celebrate with the veterans in the industry.
The event was oganised by Para Africa Foundation founded by one of the most distinguished female actresses in Nigeria Foluke Daramola-Salako.
Mrs Daramola-Salako said the organisation which is hosting the veterans for the first time, is out to build a social platform and also celebrate and honour older theatre practitioners veterans in the theater word and Nollywood industry in Nigeria.
She said: “This event was put together to celebrate veterans in the industry many of who are no longer active again as a result of old age, illnesses, or emotional or economic issues without asny assistamce or help coming from any quarters to help them get back to their feet. This is why PARA AFRICA the NGO which am the founder came up with this initiative to help our old ones in the industry.”
In his keynote address Mr Yomi Fabiyi urged young actors and actresses to always endeavor to feature the old ones in their films always so that have they will sense of belonging in the industry.
Veterans at the event include Pa Peter Fatomilola, Kareem Adepoju, a.k.a Baba Wande, Kayode Odumosu, a.k.a Pa Kasumu, Samson Oluwole (Jinadu), Lanre Hassan (Iya Awero), Idowu Phillips (Iya Rainbow), Chief Lere Paimo a.k.a Eda Onile Ola, Yinka Quadri, and Oga Bello, among others.
One the veterans Baba Wande thanked Foluke Daramola-Salako for having them in mind. “This kind of event has never happened before in Nigeria, May God continue to bless her and keep her family, Am happy that am honoured today.
In his own reaction Chief Peter Fatomilola, said; “am happy that am honoured today many people have money but would never think of giving back to their industry like Foluke is doing. May she grow old and have greater impact in life.
The event was anchored by Grand Comedian of Federal Republic of Nigeria GCFR Gbenga Adeyinka and Wazobia FM and Famous Lolo1.
Among other young actors, present at the occasion are, Yomi Fash Lanso, Ayo Adesanya, Arike-to-ta-lenu, Elewuola, Laide Bakare, Saidi Balogun, Bisola Badmus, Lola Margaret, Adeniyi Johnson, and others.