The Benin Writers Society has joined voices across Nigeria and the global creative community to honour renowned filmmaker, Chief (Amb.) Lancelot Oduware Imasuen, as he marks 30 years of outstanding contributions to the Nigerian movie industry.
In a statement issued by Princess Diana Eweka, Vice President (Events and External Affairs) of the Society, the group described Imasuen’s three-decade career as “a historic moment for Edo State, for Nollywood, and for every storyteller whose voice has been strengthened by his legacy.”
According to the Society, Chief Imasuen’s journey exemplifies resilience, creativity, and cultural devotion.
“For three decades, Chief Imasuen has stood at the very heart of African cinema,” the statement said. “He has transformed passion into purpose and purpose into generational impact.”
Quoting the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the Society added:
“The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained in sudden flight.”
“Indeed,” the statement continued, “his success is the fruit of unwavering dedication, sleepless nights, and a relentless belief in the power of story.”
Chief Imasuen, fondly called D’Guvnor, has directed or produced more than 100 films, including notable titles such as Issakaba, The Last Burial, Games Women Play, Adesuwa, Idahosa, Wede, Sacrosanct, and Invasion 1897, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most iconic historical epics.
“From the early days of Yesterday to the global acclaim of Invasion 1897, his films do more than entertain,” the Society noted. “They preserve memory, teach truth, and uphold heritage.”
Referencing Chinua Achebe’s famous assertion, “If you don’t like someone’s story, write your own,”
the Society said Chief Imasuen has “written our story boldly, brilliantly, and beautifully.”
His creative influence has earned him recognition from CNN, BBC, the Japan Broadcasting Corporation, Canadian Broadcasting Service, NPR, AIT, Channels Television, and several other international outlets.
Beyond filmmaking, Chief Imasuen is celebrated for his mentorship and industry development efforts. As a founding member of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), founder of the Benin Film Academy, and CEO of the Lancelot Imasuen Media Network, he has trained and inspired countless young creatives.
“His devotion to mentorship echoes Maya Angelou’s timeless reminder: ‘When you learn, teach. When you get, give.’ Many of today’s brightest talents trace their beginnings to his guidance and generosity,” the Society stated.
Chief Imasuen’s contributions to the industry were also acknowledged nationally when he was named among the “60 Icons Who Shaped the Nigerian Film & Video Industry” during Nigeria’s 60th Independence Anniversary — the only living Edo filmmaker on the list.
The Society highlighted one of his personal philosophies as a reflection of his remarkable career trajectory:
“Locate your dream, then light your passion… One day, your candle will light up the world.”
“Today, we witness that prophecy fulfilled,” the Society added. “His candle has become a blazing torch, illuminating Edo culture, inspiring Africa’s youth, and igniting global conversations about identity, history, and artistic truth.”
Citing Ben Okri’s belief that “Stories can conquer fear… they can make the heart bigger,”
and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o’s assertion that
“Stories are the breath of a people,”
the Society said Imasuen’s work has allowed Edo people to “breathe deeper for 30 years.”
The statement further commended his active support for literature through platforms such as Season of Words, his collaborations with the Benin Writers Society, and his longstanding advocacy for cultural education.
As the filmmaker celebrates this milestone, the Society outlined key aspects of his legacy, including cultural preservation, groundbreaking films, academic influence, international acclaim, mentorship, and his unwavering love for Edo identity.
“The Benin Writers Society is deeply proud of him,” Princess Eweka said. “We celebrate not just a filmmaker, but a visionary whose work will echo through generations.”
Conveying the organisation’s admiration, she added:
“Congratulations, Chief (Amb.) Lancelot Oduware Imasuen. Your legacy is a gift to Edo. Your work is a mirror to Africa. Your name is written in gold.”
