Popular Nigerian entertainer, Owen Osamwengie, better known as Owen Gee, has been appointed as an advisory board member of the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) and the Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival (BINFF).
A statement made available to PUNCH Online on Thursday night stated that this milestone decision was made by the founder of the festivals, Mr Tokunbo Jaboro, along with the board of directors, recognising Owen Gee’s exceptional contributions to the entertainment industry.
“The Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival and the Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival are thrilled to announce the appointment of Owen Gee as an advisory board member of both global film festivals based in Canada.
“The decision was made by the festival’s founder, Mr. Tokunbo Jaboro, alongside the esteemed board of directors. Owen Gee, a highly regarded figure in the Nigerian comedy, film, and entertainment industry will bring his wealth of experience to support and project the continued growth of Nollywood and African entertainment in Canada and beyond”.
“Owen Gee is celebrated for his leadership, innovation and deep understanding of the entertainment sector, having excelled in various roles including comedy, filmmaking, music and community engagement.
“His extensive background in international diplomacy further enhances his capability to navigate the complexities of the global entertainment landscape making him an invaluable asset to TINFF and BINFF”, the statement partly read.
Welcoming Owen Gee to the advisory board, Mr. Tokunbo Jaboro expressed his enthusiasm, “We are excited to welcome Owen Gee to our advisory board. His remarkable contributions to the African comedy and film industry, coupled with his passion for community engagement will greatly benefit our mission of promoting Nollywood and African cinema in Canada”.
Owen Gee’s appointment comes shortly after the success of the 2024 editions of TINFF and BINFF, where his documentary Nigeria Laughs 1.0 earned four prestigious awards, further spotlighting the global relevance of African storytelling.
Sharing his excitement about the new role, Owen Gee expressed his commitment to advancing Nollywood and African cinema, “I am honoured to join TINFF and BINFF as an advisory board member and to help shape the future of Nollywood and African entertainment in Canada”.
Renowned for his innovation, leadership, and deep understanding of the entertainment sector, Owen Gee has excelled in various capacities, including comedy, filmmaking, music, and community engagement.
His impressive background in international diplomacy further positions him as a valuable asset in navigating the global entertainment landscape.
