The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has inaugurated the Junior Pope Nollywood City in Enugu State as part of efforts to honour the late actor and promote the welfare of Nollywood practitioners.
Nollywood actor John Paul Odonwodo,popularly known as Junior Pope died on April 10, 2024, in a boat accident on the River Niger in Asaba, Delta State, while on his way to a movie location. The incident also claimed the lives of four other crew members.
The newly unveiled project, which consists of 150 plots of land, was presented on Tuesday during a ceremony attended by stakeholders in the creative industry.
Speaking at the event, the National President of AGN, Emeka Rollas, described the project as a lasting tribute to the late actor and a step toward building a stronger future for the guild.
According to him, the initiative is designed to preserve Junior Pope’s legacy while creating opportunities for training, creativity, and professional development within the industry.
“Although he left us too soon, his memory continues to inspire us to build structures that will stand the test of time. This project represents growth, unity, and a future for generations to come,” Rollas said.
He explained that the project would include a Junior Pope Creative Hub as well as a permanent AGN zonal and Enugu State secretariat, which will serve as a hub for administration and capacity building.
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Rollas added that the initiative reflects the guild’s commitment to the welfare of its members, stressing that the project would provide actors and practitioners with access to affordable land ownership.
He also commended the Enugu State Government for its support of Nollywood, describing the creative industry as a vital contributor to economic growth and youth empowerment.
The Chairman of the AGN Enugu Chapter, Brown Ene, said the project was conceived to promote the image of Nollywood and improve the living conditions of its members.
He disclosed that three plots of land have been allocated to Junior Pope’s children, noting that the gesture was intended to immortalise the late actor and encourage dedication among younger members of the industry.
“This project is part of our effort to ensure our members can own homes in Enugu. Naming it after our late colleague is a way of honouring his impact and reminding younger actors that commitment and professionalism are rewarded,” he said.
Junior Pope’s widow, Jennifer Odonwodo, who was present at the event, expressed gratitude to the guild for the recognition, describing it as both emotional and comforting.
“It’s a day filled with mixed emotions. I wish he were here to witness this, but I’m grateful that his efforts and legacy are being remembered,” she said.
