Ngozi Nwosu, Ruggedman, Kingsley Ogbonna, Blessing Akofure honoured at AGN Actors’ Night

Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has honoured four distinguished veterans of Nigeria’s entertainment industry with Excellence Awards during its colourful Actors’ Night held in Lagos, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating industry icons while they are still alive.

The event, which took place at the Ojez Sports Lounge, National Stadium, Surulere, attracted actors, filmmakers, musicians, comedians, media practitioners and entertainment enthusiasts who gathered for an evening of tributes, performances and recognition of outstanding contributions to the growth of Nollywood.

Inspired by the popular message of celebrating people during their lifetime, the guild said the initiative was aimed at appreciating pioneers whose dedication and sacrifices helped build Nigeria’s thriving creative industry.

Those honoured during the ceremony were veteran actress Ngozi Nwosu, renowned actor and lawyer Kingsley Ogbonna, filmmaker and content buyer Blessing Akofure, and musician-turned-actor Ruggedman.

Although Ngozi Nwosu was unable to attend due to health reasons, her award was received on her behalf by actor Emeka Okoye. The presentation was made by veteran actor Jude Chukwuka, accompanied by his wife.

Kingsley Ogbonna, popularly known for his comic role as “Dauda,” received his award from media personality Matthew Nwankwo. Expressing gratitude to the guild, Ogbonna described the recognition as one of the most treasured honours of his career.

He noted that he had devoted decades to the comedy genre and regarded the award as a significant acknowledgement of his contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.

He also remarked that whenever he wears his signature beret cap to an event, it signifies the occasion holds special importance to him.

Blessing Akofure, who was also absent, sent his apologies, while his award was received by the Special Assistant to the President on Socials, Paul Julius.

Ruggedman’s award was presented by actor Jude Orhorha, who praised the rapper for his remarkable impact on both music and film. Speakers at the event recalled that Ruggedman began his career in acting before establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s leading rap artistes and later returning to movie production.

The event featured an array of entertainment, including live musical performances, comedy, stage drama and energetic dance displays. One of the standout performances was the “Energy Dance” by a pair of twin dancers, whose electrifying choreography drew loud applause from the audience.

Veteran actor Jude Chukwuka also thrilled guests with an unexpected rap performance, demonstrating remarkable energy and stage presence. He disclosed that he was inspired to perform after watching Ruggedman’s achievements and recalled mentoring the rapper during his younger years in Surulere.

The Actors’ Night also witnessed the presentation of certificates to newly admitted members of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, symbolising the guild’s continued expansion and commitment to nurturing the next generation of practitioners.

Speaking with journalists, the guild’s Director of Communications, Cornell Udofia, said the award recipients were carefully selected for their immense contributions to Nollywood and Nigeria’s entertainment sector.

He stressed that the current leadership believes outstanding personalities should be honoured while they are alive to appreciate their service and inspire younger generations.

Udofia added that the recognition programme would continue, with more veteran actors expected to be celebrated in future editions of the Actors’ Night.

The event was coordinated by the Acting Chairperson of the guild, Mary Edward, while the Director of Guild Services, Emmanuel Onyika, served as the master of ceremonies, ensuring a seamless flow throughout the evening.

A major highlight of the celebration was the cutting of a birthday cake in honour of members born in June, including the acting chairperson. Guests later enjoyed music, dancing and networking until the early hours of the morning.

Several media organisations, including the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, News Central TV, Galaxy TV, Vanguard, Punch Newspapers and other media partners provided coverage of the colourful event, which reinforced the guild’s resolve to celebrate excellence and preserve the legacy of Nigeria’s entertainment pioneers.