Renowned journalist, Steve Ayorinde, has celebrated his 30 years journey in the Nigerian film industry with the launch of a book, titled: “30: Three Decades Of The New Nigerian Cinema – A Bystander’s Verdict.”

Ayorinde, at the launch on Thursday in Lagos, said it chronicled the remarkable growth of the Nigerian film industry.

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According to him, the book is borne out of years of honing his trade as a cub reporter, editor and columnist, editor-in-chief, member of the jury for film festivals and commissioner.

He, however, emphasised the importance of collaboration in the future.

Ayorinde said: “30: Three Decades of The New Nigerian Cinema – A Bystander’s Verdict presents a vibrant panorama of the films and personalities that have reshaped and revolutionised the Nigerian film industry in the past three decades.

“The next 30 years has to be a concerted effort of all quarters of the industry – the artistic and technical aspects collaborating with the governmental and corporate sectors

“The book is now available in leading bookstores such as Roving Heights, Terra Kulture, Alliance Francaise, The Book Sellers, and the University of Ibadan bookshop.

“It is also available on Amazon, Okada Books, Smashwords and Lulu.”

Speaking at the event, a former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, commended Ayorinde for his efforts in preserving the history of the industry.

Fayemi said: “I must commend you for bearing witness to history, and ensuring we do not lose a sense of who we are as Nigerians.

“I also need to commend all those who have excelled in this industry and are promoting our culture.”

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event had in attendance a former Governor of Lagos State. Akinwunmi Ambode; former Group Managing Director, First Bank, Dr. Bisi Onasanya; and Director-General, Nigerian Copyright Commission, Dr. John Asein.

Also, Brian Etuk, Director of Special Duties, Nigeria Film Corporation (representing the Managing Director of NFC, Chidi Maduekwe), and Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, Alare of Ilera kingdom, Epe Division Lagos State, were also in attendance.

NAN also reports that Ayorinde was a former Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy and later Tourism, Arts and Culture between 2015 and 2019.

He has written several books.

His works include: A Critic’s Timeless Reports; and Abokede: The Man, The Hill, The City.

His latest: “30: Three Decades Of The New Nigerian Cinema – A Bystander’s Verdict,” is a must-read for all film enthusiasts, researchers and film practitioners.