The Best of Nollywood, BON Awards, is making a triumphant return to Lagos for its 17th edition, scheduled for December 14, 2025, at the Federal Palace Hotel on Victoria Island. The ceremony will feature an ambitious Guinness World Record attempt for the world’s longest red carpet, stretching eight kilometres.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially received the hosting rights during a ceremony at Lagos House, Marina, attended by prominent Nollywood figures including Segun Arinze, Biola Adebayo, Femi Branch, Wole Ojo, and Scarlet Gomez. BON founder Seun Oloketuyi and executive director Feranmi Olaoye were also present, along with Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture Toke Benson-Awoyinka.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised his administration’s comprehensive approach to supporting Nigeria’s creative sector, highlighting that their commitment extends beyond financial assistance.
“Sometimes, it’s difficult to quantify what we do, but we know too well that the industry needs support. The sector needs to be elevated and encouraged,” the governor stated. “Everything that we’re doing should be thought of around the benefits that come, not necessarily to us as a government, but in a way that people will appreciate.”
The governor outlined the broader social impact of supporting Nollywood, noting the industry’s role in providing platforms for underrepresented voices while driving employment and wealth creation among Nigeria’s youth demographic.
“We are also very intentional about helping the creative industry give opportunities and voices to the voiceless that may not get the opportunity to be heard. More importantly, also help in terms of employment generation and wealth creation,” Sanwo-Olu explained.
BON founder Seun Oloketuyi described the awards’ return to Lagos as a meaningful homecoming, noting that the ceremony originally began in the commercial capital before expanding to tour all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the organizers’ ambitious plans for the record-breaking red carpet, acknowledging the innovative approach to celebrating Nigeria’s film industry.
In a Monday Instagram post, the governor reaffirmed the state’s dedication to the creative sector: “This is an opportunity to show our deep commitment to the creative industry in Lagos and across Nigeria. Nollywood is a vital part of our culture, our economy, and our global identity.”
The BON Awards, established in 2009, continues to serve as one of Nigeria’s premier platforms for recognising excellence in the country’s thriving film industry, which has gained international recognition for its cultural and economic significance.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
