AGN Honors Late Actor Junior Pope with Nollywood City Project in Enugu
The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has taken a significant step to immortalize the memory of the late actor John Paul "Junior Pope" Odonwodo. In a heartfelt tribute, the guild unveiled the Nollywood City in Enugu State, a project designed to provide affordable land access for Nollywood stars and honor Junior Pope's contributions to the industry.
A Monumental Tribute to a Beloved Actor
During a ceremony held on Tuesday, January 27, at Ako Nike in Enugu State, AGN National President Emeka-Rollas Ejezie described the event as historic. He emphasized that the Nollywood City, comprising 150 plots of land, is dedicated to Junior Pope, whose life was marked by discipline, excellence, and a profound love for Nigerian cinema.
Ejezie stated, "Though he left us too soon, his spirit continues to inspire us to build structures that will outlive us all. This project is the planting of a seed that will grow into shelter, opportunity, unity, and remembrance."
Enhancing Welfare and Support for Actors
The AGN president highlighted that the city represents a practical commitment to the welfare of guild members. He noted that actors have long contributed to Nigeria's cultural identity without sufficient institutional backing. "Today, we say clearly that the welfare of our members is not a slogan – it is a responsibility," Ejezie affirmed.
Key features of the Nollywood City include:
- Access to affordable land ownership for Nollywood practitioners.
- Establishment of the Junior Pope Creative Hub.
- A permanent AGN Zonal and Enugu State Secretariat to serve as a home for training, administration, and creativity.
Legacy for Junior Pope's Family
In a touching gesture, the AGN allocated one plot of land each to Junior Pope's three sons, ensuring a tangible legacy for their father's impact. Brown Ene, Chairman of AGN's Enugu Chapter and project initiator, explained that the land acquisition aims to promote Nollywood's image and improve member welfare.
Ene remarked, "We are naming it after our brother who passed away in a boat mishap to further immortalize him. This also encourages younger actors, showing that dedication to the guild is rewarded." The plots for Junior Pope's sons have already been allocated and will be presented to their mother on their behalf.
Emotional Response from the Family
Junior Pope's wife, Jennifer Odonwodo, attended the ceremony and expressed mixed emotions. "It's indeed a great day, even though it's filled with mixed feelings. I wish he was here to be honored, but I'm happy it's happening. This proves he truly lives on, as he worked so hard for the industry," she said.
Future Commitments and Industry Impact
Alhaji Abubakar Yakubu, the AGN National President-elect, pledged that the incoming executive would prioritize the Nollywood City project. This initiative not only honors a fallen star but also sets a precedent for supporting actors' welfare and fostering unity within the Nigerian film community.
The unveiling of Nollywood City in Enugu marks a pivotal moment for AGN, blending remembrance with practical benefits for its members and solidifying Junior Pope's enduring legacy in Nollywood history.
