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Nollywood making Nigeria proud, says Jonathan



Origianl Post By Chesa Chesa
Snr. Correspondent, Abuja
http://dailyindependentnig.com/
President Goodluck Jonathan, on Tuesday, described Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, actors and actresses as the country’s greatest ambassadors, bringing glory to their fatherland.
Jonathan spoke at the Presidential Villa when he was conferred with the award of Grand Patriarch of Nollywood by a group of artistes – Legends of Nollywood – led by veteran actor, Paul Obazele.
The President argued that while the glory being brought to the country through soccer had been on and off, the Nollywood stars were more regular in making Nigeria shine.
His words: “There are so many good stories about you (Nollywood stars). For us who by divine providence and your own will, made us to be here this time, you are our pride; you are our stars.
“In fact, you are the greatest ambassadors of this country. This is because the Nollywood family has really helped to bring good image to this country.
“Before now, we were known for soccer. After sometime, we started fumbling. Today we are on top, the next day we are down.
“Since Nollywood came on board, you have been quite steady and you have been bringing good image to this country.”
He recalled Nollywood’s humble beginning when people did not expect much, saying now it is not only the second biggest movie industry in the world, but also a big contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Jonathan said he remained committed to giving government’s support to the industry, even as he concurred with the group on the need to establish a Hall of Fame for movie industry players, although he wished there would also be Hall of Shame to deter citizens from social vices.
While describing the award plaque given to him as precious, he said it would be one of the items in the presidential museum he would establish after leaving office.
Obazele had said the group decided to give Jonathan the award because of the legendary and unprecedented support he has been giving the industry since his days as deputy governor of Bayelsa State.

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