The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), led by its outgoing president, Emeka Rollas, has unveiled a major legacy project to honour the late Nollywood actor Junior Pope, who died in April 2024 following a boat accident during a film production.
The project, named Junior Pope Nollywood City, was officially launched with a groundbreaking ceremony in Ako Nike, Enugu State. Rollas described the initiative as his final legacy before handing over leadership of the guild.
Spanning about 150 plots of land, the development is designed to preserve the memory of the late actor while providing long-term benefits for Nollywood practitioners and Junior Pope’s family. As part of the initiative, three plots of land were allocated to the actor’s three sons, with the documents formally presented to his widow during the ceremony.
According to Rollas, the project reflects AGN’s commitment to member welfare and the sustainable growth of Nollywood as a key pillar of Nigeria’s creative economy. He said the vision goes beyond real estate, focusing on dignity, unity, and future security for actors.
Junior Pope Nollywood City will also house a Creative Hub, as well as the AGN Enugu State Secretariat and the South-East zonal office. Rollas confirmed that five additional plots were allocated to the AGN Enugu State chapter and zonal leadership for administrative and training purposes.
He praised the AGN Enugu State chapter for its unity and determination, while also acknowledging the support of the Enugu State Government, the Ako Nike community, and development partners who contributed to the project’s realisation.
Rollas announced that expressions of interest for land allocation will open on February 5, 2026, and close on February 20, 2026, with allocations scheduled to begin on February 27, 2026. He noted that terms and conditions will apply.
The late Junior Pope, whose death shocked the Nigerian film industry, is remembered for his talent, dedication, and impact on Nollywood. AGN says the project stands as a lasting tribute to his life and a step toward building enduring structures for the future of Nigerian actors.
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