This year’s festival theme celebrated the resilience and growth of African filmmaking, highlighting a journey defined by dedication and tenacity. The event, hosted by Nigeria’s popular comedian Bovi, brought together a blend of local and international dignitaries, adding to the night’s glamorous ambiance.
Among the notable attendees were Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr.; and media mogul Nduka Obaigbena.
A significant highlight of this year’s festival was the introduction of the Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award, a tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe, former Access Bank Group chairman and long-time supporter of Nigeria’s creative industries.
In a moving ceremony, the inaugural recipients of this award were Afreximbank President Benedict Oramah and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, honored for their contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s creative sector. During his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the film industry for its vital role in Lagos, noting its impact on employment, creativity, and the joy it brings to Nigerians and audiences worldwide.
On his official Instagram page, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his gratitude, saying, "It was also an honour to receive the Herbert Wigwe Trailblazer Award. This award holds a special significance as it is named in memory of my late dear friend and brother, Herbert Wigwe."
He added, "His legacy continues to inspire many, and being recognized with this award is a poignant reminder of his contributions to the creative economy."
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