The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for
Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, congratulated the Convener
of the Nigeria Comedy Awards, Mr. Wale Adenuga for conceiving and successfully
birthing this laudable idea, the Nigeria Comedy Awards, dedicated solely to
recognising and celebrating Nigerian comedians who have excelled in their
chosen area of entertainment.
In his words, “I am confident that the entertainment
industry would continue to enjoy robust achievements and continue to keep
Nigeria on the global map”.
Mr. Governor averred that his passion for the entertainment
industry is because of its huge and largely untapped potential to create wealth
and employment opportunities.
He said, “My administration is fully committed to harnessing
the potential that abound in the entertainment and creative industry to drive
sustainable growth and development”.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu promised to support the industry
through the various policies and interventions under the Entertainment and
Tourism pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S. Plus Agenda such as the Lagos State Creative
Industry Initiative (LACI) which seeks to develop skills and create
opportunities for upcoming global stars.
I would like to thank the organisers and brand supporters of
this event for recognising the importance of comedy in our society not only as
a source of entertainment but also as a tool for social commentary and
reflection.
He also congratulated Wale Adenuga Productions and their
associates on the successful maiden celebration of the Nigeria Comedy Awards,
saying “I know that subsequent editions would be bigger and better. To all the
nominees and winners, I say a big congratulations and urge you not to rest on
your oars, but let this recognition spur you to work harder to achieve greater
heights”.
Mr. Governor also used the opportunity to commiserate again
with the entire members of the entertainment family on the very sad and painful
loss of a shining star in the industry, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Imole Aloba
(Mohbad), adding that MohBad was indeed a great young and promising star with a
very bright future to expand the nation’s growing space in the global arena.
The Convener of the Awards ceremony, Mr. Wale Adenuga
thanked the Governor and his representatives for coming and honouring his
invitation, he also appreciated him for his giant strides in the entertainment
industry.
One of the major highlights of the show saw Skitmaker, Layi
Wasabi, win the Revelation of the Year Award with the One Million Naira grand
prize.
Other highlights of the event were the presentation of an
award posthumously to the Late Gbenga Adeboye and Sam Loco Efe (Post Humous
Award) and the Special Recognition Award to Veteran Comedian Ali Baba and
Veteran Actress Sola Sobowale
Dignitaries at the event include the House Committee
Chairman on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Honourable Solomon Bonu; the Special
Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, his counterpart in
e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde; Permanent Secretary,
Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Olumide Sogunle amongst others.