Chime hails Chiwetel Ejiofor London-based actor

Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State has congratulated Nigerian-born British actor, Chiwetel Ejiofor who won the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) 2014 Best Actor Award last Sunday saying the feat was  a victory for Nigeria and Enugu State in particular.

Chime described Ejiofor, who hails from Oyofo-Oghe in Ezeagu Local Government Area of the state and a nephew of the traditional ruler of the town, Igwe Christopher Ejiofor, as an icon, whose historic exploits had not only brought glory to Nigeria but would inspire other young Nigerians to strive for excellence and recognition in their respective legitimate endeavours.

The governor, who stated this in a release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Chukwudi Achife, further observed that Ejiofor had before the current award, worked his way to other laurels including five Golden Globe nominations and the honour of Order of the British Empire (OBE) conferred on him by Queen Elizabeth 11 of England.

He said: 'Chiwetel Ejiofor has by this feat, brought great honour and glory to Nigeria and Enugu State in particular. The fact that he beat some of the best actors in the world to win the BATFA Best Actor award, is something that calls for great celebration. It proves once again, that Nigerians can hold their own in every field of endeavour if they really put their minds and hands to it.'

Governor Chime therefore urged Nigerian youths to emulate the good example set by the actor by engaging themselves in ventures that would uplift the image of the country and also inspire future generations.

Recall that Ejiofor won the BAFTA Best Actor Award for his role in the slavery Drama, 12 years a slave, beating acting legends like Leonardo Dicaprio and Bruce Den to win the honour.