Ex-governor of Lagos State Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday joined other dignitaries in attending the book launch of his former commissioner for tourism, arts and culture Steve Ayorinde.
The exclusive launch event is ongoing at the Mike Adenuga Centre/Alliance Francaise in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The book titled 30: Three Decades of the New Nigerian Cinema – A Bystander’s Verdict, charts three decades of the Nigerian film industry, highlighting 30 outstanding films, directors, actors, actresses and departed Nollywood figures who deserve special recognition for their artistic achievements and impact on the industry’s growth.
Also present at the book launch is ex-governor of Ekiti state Kayode Fayemi, actresses Sola Sobowale and Taiwo Ajai-Lycett among others.
Having honed his trade as a cub reporter, editor and columnist, editor-in-chief and member of the jury for film festivals, Mr. Ayorinde’s selections in the book are based on close encounters and a deep understanding of the film and cultural landscape of Nigeria.
From timeless classics like Asewo To Re Mecca, Living in Bondage, Glamour Girls and Mortal Inheritance to recent box office hits like King of Boys and Eyimofe; faces such as the legendary Ajai-Lycett, Pete Edochie and Richard Mofe-Damijo to the scintillating Bolanle Austen-Peters and dashing Damini Egbuson, among others, Ayorinde’s book presents a vibrant panorama of the films and personalities that have reshaped and revolutionised the Nigerian film industry in the past three decades.
The 184-page book with six intriguing chapters will be available in leading bookstores such as Roving Heights, Terra Kulture, Alliance Francaise, The Book Sellers, and the University of Ibadan bookshop, allowing readers to savour the captivating narratives and personalities that have propelled Nigerian cinema to its current heights.
