The Nelas

21/09/2026

“Scholars tracking the institutionalization of African cinema point to a distinct evolution in data tracking within Nigeria's creative economy. Early industry cataloging relied on private initiatives like Frank Ikegwuonu’s Who's Who in Nollywood (2003), which provided a critical baseline metric of roughly 1,200 annual titles during the peak of the informal video-film boom. When cross-referenced with modern frameworks, this historical figure highlights an exponential institutional growth. By the mid-2020s, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) began documenting an average output of 1,600 to over 2,400 audited titles per year. This shift signals a transformation from the decentralized, informal distribution hubs of the early 2000s into a highly formalized, corporate economic sector.”

20/09/2026

Known for: Uguta, The Stolen Beads, Uloma

15/09/2026

A BIRTHDAY MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION
From Frank Ikegwuonu
As I celebrate another year of life today, I pause with a heart filled with gratitude, humility and renewed purpose.
Birthdays are more than celebrations of age; they are moments to reflect on the journey, appreciate the people who have walked alongside us, and look forward with hope to the possibilities that lie ahead.
I therefore wish to sincerely appreciate my associates, partners, patrons, affiliates, colleagues, friends, well-wishers and family members who have contributed in one way or another to my journey and to the various initiatives, dreams and causes that I have pursued over the years.
To my partners and associates, thank you for your trust, collaboration and belief in the vision.
To my patrons and supporters, thank you for standing behind the work and for recognizing the importance of arts, media, culture, creativity, humanitarian service and international cooperation.
To my affiliates and colleagues across different countries and institutions, thank you for opening doors, building bridges and creating opportunities for meaningful engagement.
To my friends and well-wishers, your messages, encouragement, goodwill and prayers are deeply appreciated. Every kind word and gesture reminds me that no meaningful journey is ever walked alone.
And to my family, thank you for your patience, love, sacrifices and unwavering support. You remain an important part of the foundation upon which every achievement is built.
As I enter another chapter, I remain inspired by the belief that our greatest achievements are not measured only by what we accomplish for ourselves, but by the positive difference we make in the lives of others.
My commitment to arts, media, culture, creative industries, cultural diplomacy, humanitarian service and the building of bridges across nations remains stronger than ever. I look forward to continuing this journey with all those who share the vision of a more creative, connected, compassionate and prosperous world.
May the years ahead bring greater wisdom, renewed strength, meaningful opportunities and a deeper sense of purpose.
To everyone who has been part of my story—past, present and future—thank you for believing, supporting, encouraging and walking with me.
Today, I celebrate life. I celebrate friendship. I celebrate family.

And above all, I celebrate the people who make the journey worthwhile.
With profound gratitude,
Frank Ikegwuonu
Publisher | Filmmaker | Cultural Diplomat | Creative Industries Strategist
President, The Nelas Academy of Arts, Media and Television
www.nelasacademyawards.com

04/09/2026

The Nelas Academy of Arts, Media and Television are the official coordinators of the Nelas Academy Awards, Queen of Nollywood, Who's who in Nollywood, Who's who in Nigeria Entertainment. Connecting Africa, Europe and Eurasia through international recognition and cultural exchange.

20/08/2026

Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is one of the most influential performers of the modern entertainment era. She first achieved international prominence as a member of Destiny’s Child before establishing an exceptionally successful solo career with albums including Dangerously in Love, B’Day, I Am...

20/08/2026

15/08/2026

CELEBRATING CHARLES INOJIE — NELAS AWARDS ICON

Today, we celebrate Charles Inojie, winner of Best Actor and Best Entertainer at the 14th Edition of The Nelas Academy Awards, held at the prestigious Nicon Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

As we celebrate past excellence, nominations for the 20th Edition of The Nelas Academy Awards are now officially OPEN.

🏆 NOMINATE A DESERVING PERSONALITY, ORGANIZATION OR BRAND
Recognize outstanding achievements in entertainment, culture, leadership, humanitarian service, creativity, business and other fields of excellence.

📩 Submit nominations: [email protected]
🌐 Official website: www.nelasacademyawards.com

The 20th Edition — Celebrating Excellence. Inspiring the Next Generation.


The Nelas Academy of Arts, Media and Television

28/07/2026

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — The 17th Edition of The Nelas Academy Awards was successfully held in London, United Kingdom, bringing together an outstanding gathering of distinguished leaders, diplomats, creatives, professionals, entrepreneurs, and humanitarian advocates from different parts of the wor...