The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Rt Hon. Mudashiru Obasa has urged the Nigerian creative industry to forge a united body, so as to attract global recognition and gain better mileage.
In his personal explanation during Monday plenary, Obasa celebrated deceased iconic actors Dharmendra Singh Deol, and Chief Adedeji Aderemi, popularly known as Chief Karan and others who had made immense contribution the creative world.
Obasa as well as other lawmakers took out time to appreciate the ingenuous contributions of these actors in shaping the world view of many young minds at one time or the other not minding language barriers.
The Speaker recalled how Dharmendra’s movies captivated millions, including Nigerians who did not understand his language but were drawn to the sheer quality of his craft. He noted that many, in their youth, went to great lengths to catch glimpses of his films.
Highlighting how excellence can transcend language and geography, he urged young people to take this lesson seriously: “Your presentation matters in whatever you do. Do it well, and you can be celebrated anywhere in the world.
“The Indians have Bollywood as a single body, but in our own Nollywood we have TANPAN, ANTP and the likes, this development debars them from getting global recognition and better patronage as the confusions created by all the splinter groups is way too many.
“The important thing is to appreciate Dharmendra’s commitment to creativity not minding the language barriers he was able to impart the world.
“Our young ones too can be encouraged that when you are committed in whatever you do not minding the challenges you can also make exploit beyond the boundaries.”
Contributing, Hon. Desmond Elliot reflected on the cherished memories both Dharmendra and Chief Aderemi contributed to childhoods across generations. He added that with proper development and support, Nigeria’s film industry has the capacity to significantly boost the nation’s GDP.
Speaking on the accomplishments of the two icons, Hon. Aro Mashood emphasized that “language is not a barrier,” noting that their careers demonstrate how dedication and talent speak louder than words. He encouraged young Nigerians to pursue their dreams boldly, regardless of their accents or backgrounds.
In his remarks, Hon. Temitope Adewale described Dharmendra as a man of many characters whose stories carried valuable life lessons. In a light-hearted moment, he joked that the late actor must now be reunited with his father in heaven — a comment that brought warmth and humanity to the tribute.
He also noted that actors within Nigeria, including Hon. Elliot and others, continue to demonstrate that Nollywood holds limitless potential.
Other lawmakers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting creative talent in Lagos and across Nigeria, stressing that the arts remain a powerful tool for national development and international recognition.
The Speaker eventually directed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to write a condolence letter to Dharmendra’s family through the Consulate General of India in Nigeria, and to also extend condolences to the family of Chief Adedeji Aderemi, as well as fans and global audiences who admired the late film icons.