The Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) is partnering with the surviving cast and crew of ‘the Village Headmaster’ to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the popular television series, which reinforced traditions, ethics and values before it was rested.
‘The Village Headmaster’ is a Nigerian television drama series created by Olusegun Olusola, produced by Chief Dejumo Lewis. It was Nigeria’s longest running television soap opera showed on NTA from 1968 to 1988.
According to the Chairperson, Village Headmaster Family (VHMF), Mrs. Ibidun Allison, preparations are in top gear to hold a befitting series of events to celebrate the landmark attainment of Nigeria’s first and longest-running television drama series, which ruled the nation’s air waves for more than two decades.
The celebration which is scheduled to commence on October 8, 2019 with a roundtable discussion on ‘Drama – a tool for national development’ will continue on October 9th and 10th with a courtesy call and two live stage performances respectively. The celebration will culminate in a commemoration dinner at the Shell Hall of Muson Centre in Lagos on October 11, 2019.
Mrs. Alison, popularly called ‘Amebo’ in the TV series, further mentioned that the celebration will also witness the launching of ‘The Village Headmaster Foundation’ to cater for the needs and overall well being of people in the entertainment industry including ailing and retired practitioners.
The Foundation, she said, will equally provide capacity building opportunities for upcoming artistes in Nigeria.
The management of NTA is also expected to present plaques, awards and certificates of participation to the members of VHM family while posthumous awards will be received on behalf of deceased members.
She disclosed that the VHMF is working hard towards bringing back the TV series, saying the new VHM would be better due to advanced technology.