JUSTIN:Actors Day 2026: AMPRAC President Chief Ifeanyi Azodo Celebrates Actors, Applauds Their Impact on Nollywood

 

Actors Day 2026: AMPRAC President Chief Ifeanyi Azodo Celebrates Actors, Applauds Their Impact on Nollywood

By Our Entertainment Desk

As the world celebrates International Actors Day, the National President of the Association of Movie Practitioners (AMPRAC), Chief Ifeanyi Azodo, has joined actors and film practitioners across Nigeria and beyond in celebrating the creativity, sacrifices and invaluable contributions of actors to the entertainment industry.

In a special Actors Day messauge, Chief Azodo described actors as important storytellers whose work goes beyond entertainment, stressing that they inspire, educate and transform society through the characters and stories they bring to life.

The celebration carries the theme of unity and collective strength, with AMPRAC's message emphasizing: “One People. One Love. One Movement.”

According to the message accompanying the celebration, actors do not merely perform roles; they give life to stories and meaning to dreams. Their craft has the power to preserve culture, influence society and create lasting memories for audiences around the world.

Celebrating the Men and Women Behind the Characters

Actors remain at the heart of filmmaking. From emotional dramas and comedies to action films and cultural stories, they interpret the vision of writers, directors and producers and turn written words into living characters.

Chief Ifeanyi Azodo's Actors Day message therefore recognizes the dedication, passion, talent and resilience of practitioners who continue to contribute to the growth of Nollywood despite the challenges confronting the industry. And also applauding is RT.HON. SUNDAY OLISEMEKA a Nollywood film producer and director also the national welfare AMPRAC Nollywood.

The AMPRAC President's message also reflects the association's broader emphasis on unity within the movie industry. AMPRAC has grown over the years as an organization representing movie practitioners, while Azodo has publicly spoken about the need for stronger structures, support and better conditions for practitioners. In 2023, during the association's 20th anniversary celebration, he highlighted the importance of government support, better working environments and measures that could improve the welfare of movie practitioners.

“We Don't Just Act; We Inspire, We Educate, We Transform”

The central message of this year's celebration is a reminder that acting is more than memorizing lines or appearing before a camera.

Through their performances, actors can educate audiences, preserve traditions, challenge social injustices, communicate important messages and give visibility to different experiences within society.

For Nollywood, this contribution is particularly significant. Nigerian films have become an important vehicle for telling African stories and presenting Nigerian culture, languages, traditions and contemporary realities to audiences at home and around the world.

A Tribute to the Acting Community

Chief Ifeanyi Azodo's celebration is also a tribute to both established veterans and emerging actors who continue to build their careers in the industry.

The message recognizes the sacrifices made by practitioners who spend long hours on film sets, travel to difficult locations and dedicate their talents to productions that entertain millions of people.

It is also a celebration of the future generation of actors who are entering the industry with fresh ideas, new approaches and the determination to take Nigerian storytelling to an even wider global audience.

AMPRAC: One People, One Love, One Movement

The association's Actors Day message reinforces the values of unity, culture, craft and collective strength.

Its celebration slogan — “Our Stories, Our Culture. Our Voices, Our Power. Our Craft, Our Legacy. Our Union, Our Strength” — captures the belief that the future of Nollywood depends not only on individual success but also on collaboration among practitioners.

AMPRAC's history reflects its efforts to build an organized community for movie practitioners. At its 20th anniversary in 2023, the association recalled its origins and growth while highlighting initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and professional future of its members.

Azodo has also been publicly identified in industry reports as AMPRAC's National President, including in matters concerning professional standards and membership within the movie industry.

Saluting Every Actor

As International Actors Day is celebrated, Chief Ifeanyi Azodo's message serves as a salute to every actor — the veterans who laid the foundation, the established stars carrying the flag and the young talents working tirelessly to find their place in the industry.

It is a day to acknowledge their courage, creativity and contribution to Nigerian culture.

Happy International Actors Day to all actors and actresses.

May the industry continue to grow stronger, more united and more professionally structured, while Nigerian actors continue to inspire, educate and transform audiences through the power of storytelling.

Happy Actors Day from Chief Ifeanyi Azodo, National President, Association of Movie Practitioners (AMPRAC).

One People. One Love. One Movement.

Keeping the Spirit of Nollywood Alive.

NEWS FLASH: A COURT ORDER IS NOT AN INVITATION TO SELF-HELP

Amichi Must Allow the Law to Take Its Course

By Amichi Voices for Peace and Justice

The continuing discussion over the leadership of Amichi Development Union should not obscure one simple fact: there is a subsisting Order of a competent Court concerning the dispute.

People are entitled to disagree with that Order. Lawyers may differ on its meaning. Community stakeholders may believe that circumstances have changed since it was made.

But none of these, by itself, authorises anybody to disregard it.

That is the essence of the rule of law.

DISAGREEMENT DOES NOT CANCEL AN ORDER

A Court Order does not cease to exist because one party considers it inconvenient, wrongly made or overtaken by subsequent events.

If circumstances have changed, the proper course is to approach the Court.

If the Order is unclear, seek clarification.

If it is considered too broad, apply for its variation.

If a party believes it ought no longer to remain in force, ask that it be discharged or set aside.

What should not be encouraged is self-help — acting first and asking the Court questions afterwards.

THE ORDER WAS MADE TO PRESERVE THE SITUATION

The essence of an interlocutory or preservative Order is to prevent parties from taking steps capable of undermining the subject matter already before the Court.

It would therefore be dangerous for any person, group or institution to proceed on the assumption that its own interpretation is automatically superior to the Order presently in force.

Whether one supports the former executive, the Trustees, another group within ADU, or no faction at all, the standard should remain the same:

Respect the Court first. Challenge the Order through lawful process where necessary.

EXPIRATION OF TENURE DOES NOT AUTHORISE SELF-HELP

The fact that the tenure of the former President-General expired on 6 August 2026 is undoubtedly an important development.

But that development should be placed before the Court rather than used by either side as authority to determine the legal consequences for itself.

The former office holder cannot simply declare that the Order has created a fresh tenure.

Likewise, another organ should be cautious about declaring that the expiration of tenure has automatically extinguished the effect of the Order.

The Court that made the Order is best placed to determine its continuing effect in the light of subsequent events.

NO ONE SHOULD CREATE A FAIT ACCOMPLI

Amichi should resist any attempt to create a situation that would make the pending judicial proceedings meaningless.

An election, takeover, handover, dissolution or other fundamental alteration undertaken in the face of a subsisting restraint may create further litigation and deepen division within the community.

That would serve nobody.

The wiser course is restraint until the Court gives further direction.

THIS IS NOT ABOUT SUPPORTING ANY ADMINISTRATION

Supporting obedience to a Court Order is not the same thing as supporting the former President-General or any particular faction.

The principle protects everybody.

Today an Order may appear favourable to one side. Tomorrow another judicial decision may favour the opposite side.

What must remain constant is respect for the judicial process.

Amichi should therefore reject calls for any individual, group or institution to take the law into its own hands.

Nobody needs to disobey the Court in order to challenge its Order. The law itself provides the remedy.

Let whoever is dissatisfied return to Court.

Let whoever seeks clarification return to Court.

Let whoever believes circumstances have changed return to Court.

Until then, let restraint prevail.

A Court Order is not obeyed only when convenient. It remains an Order until lawfully varied, discharged or set aside.

That simple principle offers Amichi the safest path away from confrontation and towards an orderly resolution of the present disagreement.

AMICHI VOICES FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE

Respect the Court • Reject Self-Help • Preserve the Peace • One Amichi

JUSTIN:AMICHI DESERVES PEACE, CLARITY AND THE RULE OF LAW

 AMICHI DESERVES PEACE, CLARITY AND THE RULE OF LAW

By Amichi Citizens for Peace and Rule of Law

The leadership question in Amichi should not be reduced to personalities, factions, social-media battles or competing political narratives.

There is a pending suit before the High Court of Anambra State, Nnewi Judicial Division, in Suit No. HN/215/2022. On 21 July 2026, the Court made an interlocutory order directing the parties to maintain the status quo and restraining steps capable of altering the leadership situation pending determination of the applications before it.

The tenure of the then President-General subsequently expired on 6 August 2026. That fact is important and should not be ignored. But neither should it be used as a licence for any faction, trustee, official or interested group to unilaterally determine the legal effect of the Court's subsisting order.

The Court did not finally determine the leadership dispute. It did not confer a fresh tenure on any office-holder. It did not expressly install the Registered Trustees as a replacement executive. It did not hand administrative control to any faction.

Those are precisely the kinds of questions that should be placed before the Court for clarification where uncertainty now exists.

Our position is therefore neutral and straightforward: no side should claim a judicial victory that has not been pronounced; no public authority should be drawn into partisan enforcement; and no group should resort to self-help in the name of protecting the Constitution of the Union.

The Registered Trustees are entitled to rely on whatever powers they believe the Union Constitution gives them. The former executive is equally entitled to rely on whatever legal protection it believes flows from the subsisting order. But neither position should be enforced by unilateral action while the Court remains seized of the dispute.

The lawful course is to seek clarification, variation or consequential directions from the same Court.

Amichi is bigger than any President-General, Trustee, faction, Commissioner or political interest. What must be protected now is the peace of the community, the integrity of its institutions and respect for due process.

Let the Court clarify the law. Let every side exercise restraint. Let peace prevail in Amichi.

AMICHI CITIZENS FOR PEACE AND RULE OF LAW

JUSTIN; AMICHI MUST NOT EXPERIMENT WITH A SUBSISTING COURT ORDER

There Is a Lawful Door Open to Everyone By 

Amichi Voices for Peace and Justice 

The present conversation in Amichi should no longer be reduced to the question of who supports one individual, faction or institution. 

There is a much more fundamental issue before our community: How should responsible citizens behave when a court of competent jurisdiction has made an order affecting a dispute that is still before it? Our answer is simple: use the Court, not self-help. Different interpretations are presently being advanced about what should happen to the leadership and administration of the Amichi Development Union. 

Those differences may be genuine. Some may believe that subsequent events have changed the circumstances. Others may believe that the existing arrangement must continue until the Court speaks again. But neither side becomes the Court merely because it is convinced that its interpretation is correct.

 AMICHI IS NOT THE FIRST COMMUNITY TO FACE THIS TEST 

Experience elsewhere in Anambra State should teach us something. At Okpoko, a town-union leadership controversy reached the High Court. When questions subsequently arose concerning the election and the expired tenure of the former executive, it was the Court itself that expressly determined the consequences and directed the course to be followed. 

Awgbu similarly experienced prolonged disagreement involving its town-union election, community constitution and court proceedings. And at Nimo, controversy arose after allegations that a town-union election proceeded notwithstanding judicial intervention, producing precisely the kind of tension Amichi should avoid. 

The lesson is not that these communities are legally identical to Amichi. They are not. Every court order must be understood according to its own wording and circumstances. The lesson is more elementary: when a community leadership dispute has entered the courtroom, unilateral action outside the courtroom can deepen rather than resolve the problem.

 THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH CHALLENGING AN ORDER

 Respecting a court order does not mean surrendering one's legal position. Anybody who considers an existing order inappropriate has lawful remedies. 

The affected person or body can approach the Court for clarification, variation, discharge or other appropriate consequential orders.

 Where legally available, appellate remedies may also be explored. What should concern every peace-loving Amichi citizen is the suggestion that a person or institution should simply proceed with an act arguably prohibited by a subsisting order and leave the consequences for another day. 

That approach is unnecessary. Why risk confrontation when the doors of the Court remain open? 

THIS APPEAL IS TO EVERY SIDE 

We address this equally to the former executive, the Registered Trustees, village leaderships, government authorities and every group claiming an interest in the future administration of Amichi. 

Nobody should encourage another person or body to deliberately violate, circumvent or test the limits of a subsisting judicial order through unilateral action. Equally, nobody should distort an interlocutory order into a permanent political mandate if that is not what the Court ordered. 

Neither extreme serves Amichi. Where there is uncertainty, seek clarification. Where there is dissatisfaction, challenge the order through lawful procedure. 

Where circumstances have materially changed, place those circumstances before the Court. But until the competent Court speaks otherwise, peace and respect for judicial authority should prevail over political expediency. 

OUR COMMUNITY IS BIGGER THAN THIS CONTROVERSY

 There will be other elections. There will be other executives. 

Trustees and government officials will eventually change. But Amichi will remain. We therefore appeal particularly to those presently being encouraged to take decisive administrative steps: do not allow yourselves to be pushed into an avoidable confrontation with judicial authority. 

No political objective is worth placing the peace of Amichi at risk when a lawful avenue for resolving the disagreement remains available.

 Go to Court. Seek clarification. Seek variation where necessary. Challenge what you consider wrong. But do not replace judicial process with self-help. 

That is neither weakness nor support for any particular administration. 

It is respect for the rule of law. 

AMICHI VOICES FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE

 Peace • Justice • Due Process • One Amichi

Elvis Ogbonna Ifeanyichukwu: The Visionary Filmmaker Shaping the Future of Nollywood

By International Entertainment Magazine In an industry driven by creativity, resilience, and storytelling, few filmmakers have demonstrated the consistency and passion of Elvis Ogbonna Ifeanyichukwu. A respected Nollywood movie producer, director, actor, and the Chief Executive Officer of BHC Movies, Elvis has steadily built a reputation as one of the industry's dependable creative forces. With appearances in acclaimed productions such as A Place in Nigeria, The Grave, The Catholic Priest, The Message, Stroke of Thunder, Katanga, and numerous other films, his contribution to African cinema continues to grow. As colleagues, friends, and fans celebrate his birthday, we take a closer look at the man behind the camera and the remarkable journey that has earned him admiration across Nollywood. Q: Who is Elvis Ogbonna Ifeanyichukwu? A: Elvis Ogbonna Ifeanyichukwu is a Nigerian filmmaker, actor, producer, and director whose career spans many successful productions in Nollywood. As the founder and CEO of BHC Movies, he has dedicated his life to telling authentic African stories while mentoring young talents and contributing to the growth of Nigeria's film industry. He is the first grand ambassador of Appletv Africa, he worn cash and a car prize in Apple TV africa celebrity scale 2021 flooding other celebrities. Q: What makes him stand out in Nollywood? A: Elvis is admired for his versatility. Whether he is acting before the camera, directing a cast, or producing a film from concept to completion, he approaches every project with professionalism and excellence. His ability to combine compelling storytelling with quality production has earned him the respect of colleagues and audiences alike. Q: Which notable films has he featured in? A: Throughout his career, Elvis has appeared in several notable Nollywood productions over 150 movies or more , including A Place in Nigeria, The Grave, The Catholic Priest, The Message, Strike of Thunder, Katanga, and many other productions that have showcased his talent and commitment to the craft. Q: How has he influenced the Nigerian film industry? A: Beyond acting and filmmaking, Elvis has become a source of inspiration for many upcoming creatives. Through BHC Movies, he has created opportunities for actors, crew members, and young filmmakers while maintaining high professional standards. His work reflects a commitment to preserving African culture through cinema while embracing modern filmmaking techniques. He doesn't joke with time just give him 3am midnight to be on your movie set you will see elvis standing in that set by 2;55 am dot don't try him with time nothing like African tim where elvis is . Q: What do friends and colleagues say about him? A: Those who have worked closely with Elvis describe him as humble, disciplined, dependable, and passionate about his work. Many professional relationships have evolved into lifelong friendships because of his sincerity, generosity, and willingness to support others in achieving their dreams. Q: What is the significance of celebrating his birthday? A: His birthday is more than a personal milestone; it is an opportunity to celebrate years of dedication to storytelling, leadership, and artistic excellence. It is also a moment to recognize the countless lives he has impacted through mentorship, collaboration, and his contributions to Nollywood. Birthday Tribute As Elvis Ogbonna Ifeanyichukwu marks another year of life, colleagues, friends, and admirers celebrate a filmmaker whose vision continues to enrich African cinema. His journey reminds us that success is built on hard work, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

May this new chapter bring greater opportunities, international recognition, outstanding productions, good health, divine protection, and continued success. Happy Birthday to an exceptional producer, director, actor, and creative leader. Happy Birthday, Elvis Ogbonna Ifeanyichukwu—may your best productions still lie ahead.

JUSTIN:Mazi Akpaka Comedy Becomes Southeast Nigeria's Most Followed Social Media Influencer

A Remarkable Journey from Oduma to Global Stardom The entertainment industry in Nigeria is celebrating another historic milestone as Mazi Akpaka Comedy, born Harrison Echezona Akpa, continues to dominate the digital space, emerging as one of the most followed social media influencers from Southeast Nigeria, with over 7.3 million followers on Facebook and millions of fans across other social media platforms.

Born and raised in Oduma, Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, Harrison Echezona Akpa has become a shining example of how talent, determination, consistency, and hard work can transform humble beginnings into international success. Mazi Akpaka attended Community High School Ezinesi Oduma, now known as Special Science School Aninri, where his early years reflected the discipline and resilience that would later define his career. Those who knew him during his school days describe him as creative, focused, and passionate about entertainment. Before becoming one of Africa's biggest comedy sensations, Mazi Akpaka built his foundation in Nollywood, working as a technical crew member and actor. During this period, he worked alongside his cousin, RT. Hon. Sunday Olisemeka (DGN), a respected Nollywood director, producer, and filmmaker. That early exposure to filmmaking gave him valuable experience behind and in front of the camera, helping him master storytelling and screen performance. His decision to venture into comedy skits proved to be life-changing. Through relatable stories, cultural pride, and humorous interpretations of everyday life, Mazi Akpaka created content that resonates with audiences across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond. His comedy is unique for blending Igbo, English, and Oduma language, preserving local culture while entertaining a global audience. Today, his short comedy films and skits have gone viral across social media, attracting millions of viewers. His influence has expanded beyond African borders, with audiences from Europe, America, and other parts of the world embracing his creativity. His ability to make people laugh regardless of language or nationality demonstrates the universal appeal of authentic storytelling. With more than 7.3 million followers and a rapidly growing international fan base, Mazi Akpaka has become a cultural ambassador for Southeast Nigeria and a source of inspiration for countless young content creators. His journey proves that greatness can emerge from any community when talent meets dedication. His achievements are not only a personal victory but also a proud moment for the people of Oduma, Aninri Local Government Area, Enugu State, and the entire Southeast region. He has shown that local stories can reach global audiences without losing their cultural identity. As fans, friends, and colleagues celebrate this extraordinary milestone, we congratulate Harrison Echezona Akpa (Mazi Akpaka Comedy) for raising the flag of Southeast Nigeria high on the global entertainment stage. His story is a reminder that dreams remain valid, hard work pays off, and consistency can turn ordinary beginnings into extraordinary success. Congratulations, Mazi Akpaka Comedy! May this remarkable achievement be the beginning of even greater heights. Southeast Nigeria is proud of you, Nigeria celebrates you, and the world is watching your inspiring journey with admiration.

EXCLUSIVE PERSONALITY BIRTHDAY FEATURE: "WE ARE THE LEADERS OF TODAY" – DR. COACH SPEAKS ON LIFE, SUCCESS, STRUGGLES, AND GRATITUDE

A GREATEST LIVE INTERVIEW WITH A DOUBLE CELEBRITY PERSONALITY WITH APPLETV AFRICA NEWS In this exclusive post-birthday interview, renowned media personality, actor, entrepreneur, promoter, and youth advocate, Iroegbu Godwill Benjamin Chukwuemeka, popularly known as Dr. Coach, opens up about his educational journey, career, personal values, business ventures, and his heartfelt appreciation to everyone who celebrated with him.

Interview with DR. COACH Interviewer: Congratulations on your birthday celebration, Dr. Coach. How do you feel after celebrating another year of life? DR. COACH: Thank you very much. I feel grateful, blessed, and highly favored by God. Celebrating another year of life is a reminder of God's faithfulness, mercy, and grace upon my life. I appreciate everyone who took out time to celebrate, pray for me, and show me love. Interviewer: For those who may not know you well, can you tell us about your educational background? DR. COACH: Certainly. I attended my primary education at Housing Estate Primary School, Abakpa. For my secondary education, I attended St. Patrick's Secondary School, Emene, and later Community Secondary School, Ugwogo Nike, Enugu. I obtained my Ordinary National Diploma (OND) from the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu. I also earned my Bachelor's degree from Peace Land College of Education, Enugu, and presently, I have my Master's degree in view. Interviewer: You are involved in several professions. How would you describe yourself? DR. COACH: I see myself as a multi-talented and purpose-driven individual. I am a Judoka, actor, marketer, promoter, seasonal politician, media personality, entrepreneur, and youth advocate. I believe in exploring opportunities and using my talents to positively impact society. Interviewer: What are some of your hobbies and interests outside your professional life? DR. COACH: I enjoy dancing, sports, fashion, hanging out with friends and family, and participating in fellowship activities. These activities help me maintain balance and strengthen my relationship with people and with God. Interviewer: Who is your role model, and why? DR. COACH: My role model is God. I believe that every success, wisdom, and blessing comes from Him. His love, mercy, and guidance have shaped my life and continue to inspire me every day. Interviewer: As a youth advocate, what message do you have for young people today? DR. COACH: My message to the youths is simple: we are no longer the leaders of tomorrow; we are the leaders of today. We must rise to the occasion, take responsibility, develop ourselves, and contribute positively to our communities and society. Interviewer: What advice do you have for young men and women who are struggling to succeed? DR. COACH: They should never give up. There is no gain where there is no pain. Every struggle has a purpose, and every sacrifice has a reward. One day, their hustling and struggling will surely pay off. They must remain focused, prayerful, hardworking, and persistent. Interviewer: During your birthday celebration, many people showed you love and support. What would you like to say to them? DR. COACH: I am deeply appreciative of those who took my pain as their pain and my joy as their joy. To everyone who celebrated me, prayed for me, supported me, and stood by me through different seasons of life, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart. May God bless each and every one of you abundantly, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Interviewer: You are also involved in business and entertainment. Can you tell us more about your ventures? DR. COACH: Yes, I am the Director of YOUNGMIND AND KOOLBRAIN ESTATE MANAGEMENT, where we provide real estate solutions and investment opportunities. I am also the Director of KOOL BRAIN FILMS and YOUNG MIND RECORDS AND ENTERTAINMENT. Our mission is to promote creativity, talent development, entrepreneurship, and entertainment excellence. Interviewer: Finally, what is your vision for the future? DR. COACH: My vision is to continue inspiring lives, empowering youths, building successful businesses, promoting talents, and contributing positively to society. I believe that with God, hard work, and determination, anything is possible. FINAL WORD As he celebrates another remarkable year, Dr. Coach continues to exemplify resilience, faith, leadership, and entrepreneurship. His journey serves as an inspiration to countless young people, proving that persistence, dedication, and faith in God can transform dreams into reality. From everyone around the world, we say: Happy Birthday once again to Dr. Coach, and we wish him many more years of success, impact, and divine blessings.