The news of First Bank Chairman, Ibukun Awosika debut in the movie industry broke yesterday and it has been received with awe by many.
Awosika is presently the trending and most sought-after actress following her appearance in a new movie ‘ Citation’ ,produced by award winning actor, Kunle Afolayan.
Her appearance in the film at least for now is dominating the airwaves and definitely the message conveyed in the flick, as everyone seems to be carried away by her transition to the movie world.
The film producer, Afolayan explained the choice of Awosika for a lead role given her exemplary leadership prowess.
The movie was shot in Obafemi Awolowo University and in three countries. It focuses on the ordeals faced by female students in Nigerian Universities.
Afolayan explained that Awosika plays the role of the university faculty dean, heading the senate hearing panel of a female postgraduate student (Moremi), played by Temi Otedola, who has been a victim of sexual harassment.
Sharing her thoughts, Awosika said, “the physical and psychological effects of sexual harassment have a considerable toll on individuals and institutions in terms of cost. The effects of can hamper growth and the potentials and can stop the victims from engaging fully in life. We must, therefore, (as stakeholders, governments, institutions of learning; parents; media etc.), collectively rise against this menace and never let the deplorable behaviour of sexual harassment to fester.
“I remain upbeat about this project – being part of a collective goal to continually keep dreams and hope alive; sacrificing and holding strong to our commitment to reignite the lost values. The casting experience has been very enriching and impactful to me. I am delighted to be amongst the very amazing casts in such an intriguing and brilliantly scripted movie”.
Afolayan explained further that the journey of ‘Citation’ began in 2018.
He said, “It all began in 2018 with the pre-production of Citation, then the production in January 2020, and now the 30th of August, we officially had the first private screening of Citation at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).
“Why OAU? Well, not only was Citation shot at the University, but our surprise cast is an alumna of the school.”
“Now, the exciting gist for the day! While observing the COVID-19 preventive measures at the exclusive screening, it was an honour to welcome both the principal authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University and friends of the institution. This was the moment we unveiled our surprise cast
“Playing the role of the university faculty dean, heading the senate hearing panel of Moremi (Temi Otedola) and Lucien (Jimmy-Jean Louis), we present Dr. Mrs Ibukun Awosika!
“You may know her as the chairman of First Bank Nigeria, an entrepreneur, an author, or a motivational speaker, but we know her for what she represents – women’s leadership, which is the sole objective of Citation. Her actions and initiatives for change in Africa and women empowerment is one to be desired.”
Afolayan noted further that the movie written by Tunde Babalola, mirrors beyond the act of sexual harassment, to center on how to address such a situation in Universities.
He disclosed that the production is a partnership with the Ford Foundation,aiming at propelling women to become great leaders.
Other casts in the movie are :Jimmy Jean Louis, Sadiq Daba, and Gabriel Afolayan.
