Founder of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards, Seun Oloketuyi, has welcomed the decision by the Ondo State Government to rename the International Centre for Culture and Events, popularly known as The Dome, in honour of former Governor Olusegun Mimiko.
The facility in Akure has been renamed the Dr. Olusegun Mimiko International Centre for Culture and Events by the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
Oloketuyi described the decision as a fitting recognition of Mimiko’s contribution to Ondo State, particularly his investment in infrastructure, culture and youth development.
For the BON Awards founder, the renaming also holds personal significance, as the awards ceremony was the first event hosted at The Dome following its commissioning in 2015.
On December 12, 2015, Mimiko, who was governor at the time, hosted the BON Awards, bringing together prominent figures from across the Nigerian film industry to Akure.
Recalling the occasion, Oloketuyi said the event marked an important moment in the history of the facility, with Nollywood stars including Funke Akindele and veteran actor Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, among those associated with the celebration.
He noted that the event helped introduce the venue to the entertainment industry and established a lasting connection between BON Awards and the facility.
Oloketuyi said seeing the building named after the man who conceived and developed it was a satisfying moment, adding that the decision would help preserve Mimiko’s legacy for future generations.
He also praised Aiyedatiwa for the gesture, describing it as an example of leadership that recognises past contributions beyond political differences.
According to him, the decision sends a message to younger Nigerians that people who contribute meaningfully to society deserve to be remembered.
Oloketuyi described Mimiko as more than a former governor, calling him a mentor and father figure who supported culture and youth development during his time in office.
He also cited the former governor’s free education policy, Abiye maternal and child healthcare initiative, and investments in cultural infrastructure as important parts of his legacy.
On behalf of the BON Awards board, Oloketuyi thanked Aiyedatiwa, the Ondo State Executive Council and the people of the state for the honour bestowed on the former governor.
He expressed hope that the renaming would further strengthen recognition of Mimiko’s contributions to Ondo State and the development of its cultural sector.
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