PROF.NKEM ALU CELEBRATES

 

Happy Birthday to a Nollywood Icon: Professor Nkem Alu

By RT.Hon.Dir.Sunday Olisemeka dgn

Today, we celebrate not just a birthday, but the life, legacy, and light of one of Nollywood’s most respected pillars — Professor Nkem Alu. A screenwriter, seasoned actor, professional filmmaker, and esteemed lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Nkem has become a household name in the Nigerian film industry through consistency, humility, and excellence.

From his early days as a writer and continuity personnel, to becoming one of the most decorated directors and producers in Nollywood, Prof. Nkem’s journey is a masterclass in dedication and grace. His early directorial work, Divided Attention, captured hearts and laid the foundation for what would become a legendary career. Today, even as he celebrates his birthday, he is on set filming the highly anticipated and emotionally charged movie, Throes of a Widow — a testament to his unrelenting passion for storytelling.

Fondly called “Nkem per se” by those who know and love him, he is more than just a filmmaker — he is a symbol of peace, humility, and truth. It is rare to find someone with his stature who remains so approachable, respectful, and free of drama in an industry often marked by egos and conflicts. You will never find Prof. Nkem involved in quarrels; instead, you’ll find him quietly mentoring the next generation of storytellers with wisdom and patience.

Among those he has mentored are rising Nollywood forces like Hon. Sunday Olisemeka DGN, Mercy Akayak DGN,  Arinze Nnam etc — all of whom have continued to carry the torch of cinematic excellence. As a top-ranking member of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Prof. Nkem Alu has contributed immensely to shaping the creative and ethical landscape of Nollywood.

As he adds another year today, we join family, friends, colleagues, students, and admirers across the world in saying: Happy Birthday, Professor Nkem Alu! May your days continue to shine with the grace, creativity, and peace you radiate. Nollywood is proud of you. Nigeria is proud of you. The world celebrates you.

Keep inspiring. Keep creating. Keep soaring.

By Sunday Olisemeka dgn.