Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has called on Africans to unite against xenophobia, condemning the recent attacks on foreign nationals in South Africa.
The actor made the appeal on Saturday during the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards after receiving the prestigious Industry Merit Award.
In his acceptance speech, Kanayo dedicated the award to filmmakers, cast members, and crew across Africa, while reflecting on the sacrifices made by veterans in the movie industry over the years.
“This is for Africa, for everyone who works as cast and crew. Even before 1992, many of us are no longer in good health, many have returned to their villages, and many have passed on,” he said.
The veteran actor also spoke about the challenges and personal sacrifices that shaped his decades-long career in Nollywood.
“Sometimes, when you stand on a stage like this, you ask yourself, ‘What have I done to still be alive?’ Yes, I have made a lot of sacrifices,” he added.
Kanayo further appealed to French media company Canal+ to sustain its support for the African entertainment industry, describing film and television as a strong force for continental unity.
“I want to extend a hand of friendship to Canal+, please keep this going. This is one thing that unites the whole of Africa,” he said.
Using the moment to address wider continental issues, the actor expressed concern over the growing wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa, urging Africans to reject hostility against one another.
“On this note, I am not happy about what is going on in South Africa today. Let us lend our voices against xenophobia in South Africa. We are not happy. As Africans, we cannot continue running from Africa,” Kanayo stated.
Veteran actress Sola Sobowale, who also received the Industry Merit Award at the ceremony, thanked her fans and colleagues for their consistent support throughout her acting career.