The size and calibre of Nollywood stars gathered at Ikeja, Lagos, venue of Foluke Daramola Salako’s gala event to celebrate aged Nollywood veterans on November 29 authenticated the goodwill the actress has enjoyed over the years.
Salako, the founder of a non-governmental organisation, Passion Against Rape and Abuse in Africa, honoured Nollywood veterans like Kareem Adepoju a.k.a Baba Wande, Kayode Odumosu a.k.a Pa Kasumu, Peter Fatomilola, Lanre Hassan (Iya Awero), Idowu Phillips (Iya Rainbow), Chief Lere Paimo a.k.a Eda Onile Ola and others.
In a chat with Sunday Scoop, Baba Wande expressed joy at the honour given to him and other aged veterans.
He said, “Foluke Daramola thought about this great initiative; may God continue to bless her. What she did today hasn’t been done before. It’s the first of its kind. We have wealthy people in Nigeria, we have a government in Nigeria, but none of them has thought about honouring aged Nollywood stars and even giving them money. I am happy being part of those that were honoured.”
In the same vein, veteran actor, Chief Peter Fatomilola said, “I am happy to be honoured and given money. We have rich people in Nigeria, but even our leaders didn’t think of this kind of initiative. The money meant to be used in taking care of pensioners and the aged is being embezzled. Foluke honoured us despite not having all the resources. She will grow old and make more impact.”
The epoch-making event moderated by ace comedian Gbenga Adeyinka also had young actors in attendance like Laide Bakare, Ayo Adesanya, Saidi Balogun, Yomi Fash Lanso, Bisola Badmus, Lola Margaret, Adeniyi Johnson and others.
Fuji musician, Alabi Pasuma, ended the event on a high note as he serenaded the veterans with his groovy Fuji songs. It was a great sight to behold as the aged Nollywood stars greatly relished the event.
-Playground. ng
