The Actors Guild of Nigeria has taken a bold step to preserve the legacy of the late Nollywood actor, JohnPaul Odonwodo, fondly known as Junior Pope, with the unveiling of Junior Pope Nollywood City in Enugu State.
The project, which sits on 150 plots of land, was created to honour the actor’s impact on the film industry and his dedication to the guild. As part of the tribute, the AGN also allocated three plots of land to Junior Pope’s sons, ensuring that his contributions live on through his family.
Junior Pope passed away in April 2025 alongside four colleagues after a boat accident on the Anam River while returning from a movie shoot. His death sent shockwaves across Nollywood and reignited conversations around safety and welfare within the industry.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony at Ako Nike, Enugu State, the AGN National President, Emeka-Rollas Ejezie, described the initiative as a historic moment and the beginning of something enduring. He said the project was inspired by Junior Pope’s discipline, excellence, and passion for Nollywood, noting that although his life was cut short, his influence remains strong.
According to Ejezie, the new city represents more than remembrance. It reflects the guild’s renewed commitment to the welfare of its members, many of whom have helped shape Nigeria’s cultural identity without enjoying long-term institutional support. He explained that the development would also house the Junior Pope Creative Hub, alongside permanent AGN zonal offices and an Enugu State secretariat, creating a physical base for training, administration, and creative growth.
He praised the Enugu State Government for recognising the creative industry as a driver of economic development and job creation, while also acknowledging the support of Cool Brains Real Estate and the Ako Nike community for their cooperation.
Incoming AGN National President, Alhaji Abubakar Yakubu, assured members that the project would remain a priority for the next executive, promising continuity and commitment to its full realisation.
The Chairman of the AGN Enugu Chapter and initiator of the project, Brown Ene, said the idea was born out of a desire to improve the welfare of actors while promoting Nollywood’s image. He noted that naming the city after Junior Pope was meant to honour his memory and inspire younger actors to remain committed and responsible, knowing that their efforts would not be forgotten.
He confirmed that the three plots allocated to Junior Pope’s children had already been processed and would be formally presented to their mother on their behalf.
Responding on behalf of the family, Junior Pope’s wife, Jennifer Odonwodo, expressed deep gratitude to the guild for the gesture. She described the moment as emotional but reassuring, saying the honour affirmed that her husband’s hard work and dedication to Nollywood were not in vain. She added that while she wished he were alive to witness the recognition, she found comfort in knowing his legacy would continue to speak for him.
