Pete Edochie becomes first Pan-African honouree of Ghana’s Legacy Project
Nigerian veteran actor Pete Edochie has become the first non-Ghanaian personality to be honoured under the Legacy Project by King-Dawie Publishing.
For the past two years, the initiative has recognised personalities whose contributions have made a lasting impact on Ghana’s creative arts industry. Previous honourees include veteran actress Grace Omaboe, popularly known as Maame Dokono, football legend Asamoah Gyan, veteran actor Fred Amugi and actor Adjetey Anang.
After establishing the project in Ghana, King-Dawie Publishing is now expanding it beyond the country as part of a broader Pan-African initiative, with Nigeria serving as the first destination.
Edochie became the first recipient of the international expansion, receiving the honour on Sunday, October 4, at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra.
The Project Manager of King-Dawie Publishing Limited explained that Edochie was selected because of his remarkable contribution to African cinema and his popularity across the continent.
“I just take delight in celebrating people. Looking at his life and the contributions he’s made to African cinema, I felt he’s well positioned to be celebrated. And besides, a lot of people love him,” he said.
The celebration attracted politicians, actors, industry professionals and cultural leaders, many of whom spoke about Edochie’s influence and legacy in the African film industry.
Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah described the veteran actor as a father figure and praised his willingness to mentor and check on younger colleagues.
She said she had grown up watching him and had the opportunity to work with him on several film productions.
“He’s like a big father. Another thing I like about him is that he always calls to check up on you. He advises us all the time on set. I just love him,” she said, adding that she was determined to attend the event regardless of where she was in the world.
Veteran actor Fred Amugi also praised Edochie, saying that although he had never met him personally, he had long admired his work and regarded him as one of Nigeria’s finest actors.
Pru East Member of Parliament Emmanuel Kwaku Boa reflected on Edochie’s influence on a generation of Africans who grew up watching his films.
He recalled the actor’s ability to portray intimidating and villainous characters while also making acting appear effortless.
Boa said many people who later pursued careers in the creative industry were influenced by personalities such as Edochie and expressed the view that the actor deserved greater recognition during the height of his career.
“It’s better late than never,” he said.
Executive Producer of The Black I Am International Awards, Dr Angela Harris, highlighted Edochie’s humanitarian and philanthropic qualities, describing him as a selfless individual who understands that influence should extend beyond personal success.
The event also provided an opportunity to recognise other veterans whose contributions have helped shape Africa’s film industry.
Western Regional Representative on Ghana’s Council of State, Dr Maxwell Nana Yaw Palasco Boakye, led that segment by presenting awards to veteran actors Grace Omaboe, Fred Amugi and Pete Edochie.
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