The organisers of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards have announced the recipients of this year’s Special Recognition Awards ahead of the ceremony scheduled for later in the year.
According to a statement by the organisers, veteran actor Chief Pete Edochie, actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri, actress Peju Ogunmola, and filmmaker Steve Sodiya will receive the prestigious honours in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Nigerian film industry.
The announcement sets the stage for a spectacular celebration of the individuals who have spent decades shaping the identity, growth, and global visibility of Nigerian cinema.
According to the BON Awards committee, this year’s recipients were meticulously selected for their exceptional artistry, longevity, dedication to mentorship, and profound impact across multiple generations of moviegoers.
“Each honouree represents a distinct pillar of the industry, bridging the gap between Nollywood’s foundational years and its modern-day global dominance.Chief Pete Edo Chief, is being honoured for his commanding screen presence and decades of portraying wisdom, authority, and Nigerian culture on screen. As a national icon, his legendary performances continue to serve as a blueprint for storytelling in Nigeria and across the African continent.
“Joining him in the spotlight is acclaimed actress, producer, and screenwriter Ruth Kadiri, who is recognised for her consistent box-office success, YouTube trailblazing, prolific storytelling, and her intentional commitment to empowering behind-the-scenes professionals through various industry-uplifting initiatives. The honours also extend to Peju Ogunmola, a revered veteran of both stage and screen, who is being celebrated for her immense versatility in Yoruba and English cinema, as well as her lifelong dedication to preserving indigenous culture through film and theatre. Rounding out the stellar list of honourees is Steve Sodiya, an accomplished editor, director, and talent development advocate. Sodiya is being recognised for his invaluable contributions both on-screen and behind the scenes, particularly through his mentorship and training programmes that have helped shape the next generation of Nollywood talent,” the statement read.
The Nation

