President Muhammadu Buhari has praised veteran actor, script writer and movie producer, Pete Edochie, for the many pioneering and motivating roles in Nollywood and the entertainment industry.
Buhari’s commendation was conveyed in a statement by media adviser, Femi Adesina, congratulating the thespian on his 75th birthday.
Edochie hit the limelight in the 80s as Okonkwo in the screen adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart”, where his superlative performance brought the spotlight to Nigeria and Africa.
The President noted Edochie’s background of living and working extensively in various parts of the country and the world.
He had served the government as staff of the Nigeria Railway Corporation and Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation.
His extensive tours of duty have also greatly shaped his global outlook and influenced his interpretation of roles as a thespian.
Edochie is usually cast as king and father in movies.
Buhari said Edochie’s role in the founding and growing of Nollywood as one of biggest entertainment industries in the world deserves commendation, especially in incubating younger professionals and nurturing talents such as his son, Yul Edochie.
Meanwhile, the Nollywood community has showered Pete Edochie with love and praise on his 75 years birthday.
One of the actors who have worked with Edochie, Belinda Effah, described the veteran actor as a true father figure.
She said: “I grew up watching him and he has such an amazing presence and command of words. I have worked with him once and he was such a father figure. I pray long life and prosperity to him. 75 looks good on our Igwe, Odogwu. Long live Chief Pete Edochie.”
Actress Ebere Nwizu wrote, “Chief Pete Edochie is a LEGEND. You know how they say it’s easy to be a Star but staying CONSISTENT is where the challenge is and Pete Edochie has remained relevant all these years. I’ve worked with him before and it was such an opportunity.
I wish him many more fruitful years!”
Patience Ozokwor simply wrote: “May You Live Long. Happy Birthday.”
Yul Edochie, on his part, described his father as the most handsome 75 years old alive.
He said: “The most handsome 75yr old man alive. My man. I couldn’t have asked for a better father. Strong man. Legend. Happy 75th birthday to you Dad. Chief Pete Edochie (MON). Ebubedike 1 of Africa. Wish you many more great years. May God be with you always. Love you Dad.”
Kanayo O. Kanayo, Femi Branch among others had earlier come together and participated in the DropItChallenge to celebrate Edochie.
