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AFRIFF Globe Awards 2025: A Night Celebrating African Artistry and Innovation
The vibrant city of Lagos came alive as the AFRIFF Globe Awards transformed the Banquet Hall of the Oriental Hotel in Lekki into a dazzling hub of culture and creativity. The evening was a spectacular fusion of elegance, entertainment, and heartfelt tributes, underscoring the dynamic evolution of African cinema and cultural expression.
Opening with a Tribute to African Creativity
The ceremony commenced with the screening of Afroculture, a compelling documentary by renowned artist Flavour. This film served as a passionate homage to the continent’s rich artistic heritage, setting an energetic and soulful tone that resonated throughout the night.
Honoring Trailblazers in African Arts
The prestigious Herbert Wigwe Award of Excellence was presented to a distinguished group of individuals whose contributions have significantly elevated African arts on the world stage. Among the honorees were Hollywood actor David Oyelowo, music icon Flavour, Principal Secretary to the President Hakeem Muri-Okunola, and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah. Their achievements were met with enthusiastic applause, reflecting their impact in promoting African culture globally.
Captivating Performances Highlight New African Narratives
The evening featured electrifying performances that captivated the audience. A dynamic dance ensemble energized the crowd with their rhythmic movements, while students from Bimbo Akintola‘s acting workshop presented a poignant theatrical piece. Their minimalist black costumes and evocative storytelling symbolized the fresh wave of African narratives emerging in contemporary arts.
Recognizing Excellence: Award Winners of AFRIFF 2025
The awards ceremony celebrated outstanding achievements in African filmmaking, spotlighting the talents and stories that defined the year. Notable winners included:
- Audience Choice Award: Son of the Soil by Chee Keong Cheung (Nigeria)
- Best Feature Film: To Adaego With Love directed by Nwamaka Chikezie (Nigeria)
- Best International Film: Pasa Faho by Kalu Oji (Australia)
- Best Director: Zoey Martinson for The Fisherman
- Best Male Performance: Richard Bamgbaye in Aljana
- Best Female Performance: Michelle Lemuya Ikeny in Nawi
- Best Screenplay: Brenda Garuba for To Adaego With Love
- Best Animation: The Travails of Ajadi by Adeoye Adetunji (Nigeria)
- Best Documentary: The Eyes of Ghana by Ben Proudfoot (Ghana)
- Best International Documentary: TUKKI: From Roots to Bayou by Vincent Le Gal and Alune Wade (France, Ghana, Senegal, US)
- Best Documentary Short: Beyond The Screen by Peter Fada Osiughwu (Nigeria, UK)
- Best Short Film: The Day The Heart Died by Russell Oru (Nigeria)
- Best International Short Film: Majini by Joshua Neubert and Victor Muhagachi (Tanzania, UK)
- Best Student Short: The Labyrinth by Toluwalope Okunade Ebiseni (France)
Closing with Joyful Celebration
The festivities concluded on an exuberant note as the Loud Urban Choir energized the crowd with their lively harmonies, inspiring everyone to dance and celebrate. This spirited finale perfectly encapsulated the essence of AFRIFF 2025 – a vibrant showcase of African stories, music, and artistic innovation that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
AFRIFF 2025: Beyond Awards, A Movement of African Creativity
More than just an awards night, AFRIFF 2025 Globe Awards was a powerful affirmation of Africa’s bold and unstoppable creative spirit. As African cinema and culture gain unprecedented global recognition, events like this highlight the continent’s role as a dynamic force in the arts.
Gallery: Moments from AFRIFF Globe Awards 2025
Explore the vibrant scenes and unforgettable moments captured during the event:
