The 2023 Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards, held on December 22 at the Adolak Event Centre in Oshogbo, Osun State, delivered a memorable night for Nollywood film practitioners. Hosted by actor Kunle Remi, the 15th edition of the prestigious awards celebrated the best in Nigerian cinema.
Chinenye Nworah’s Shanty Town and Tunde Aina’s Underbelly emerged as the night’s biggest winners, each taking home five awards. Shanty Town won accolades including Best Use of Makeup, Best Actress in a Supporting Role (English), Best Actress in an English Movie, Best Actor in an English Movie, and Movie of the Year. Underbelly secured Best Use of Special Effects, Best Production Design, Most Promising Actor, Best Actor in a Supporting Role (English), and Director of the Year.
A total of 29 awards were presented during the evening, with veterans Adebayo Salami (aka Oga Bello) and Chief Toyin Adegbola (aka Asewo to re Mecca) receiving special recognition for their outstanding contributions to Nollywood. The awards were presented by Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who was a highlight of the evening with his energetic dance moves and performances at the after-party.
Other notable winners included Ifedichie, Obara’m, Mustapha Solagbade, Debbie Sokoya, Funso Adeolu, Jumoke Odetola, and Princess Kossy Nwogu. The event also saw notable attendees such as Chief Dele Momodu, Nobert Young, Yemi Blaq, Segun Arinze, and Fred Amata, among others.
Governor Adeleke expressed his passion for the entertainment industry and encouraged filmmakers to take advantage of the opportunities available in Osun State. Seun Oloketuyi, founder and CEO of BON Awards, announced that the 16th edition of the pan-Nigeria awards will take place in Enugu State, marking another exciting chapter for the Nollywood community.
