In a stunning showcase of cinematic excellence, the 22nd Abuja International Film Festival celebrated the vibrant spirit of Global filmmaking, honoring both emerging talents and established figures within the industry. Among the night’s distinguished guests was Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, who received the prestigious AIFF Distinguished Merit Award for his unwavering commitment to the growth of the Kano movie industry. His initiatives have provided crucial capacity building and funding opportunities that have empowered indigenous filmmakers to tell their stories.
The festival was dominated by standout films, particularly *Safari*, which triumphed in three major categories, clinching Best Actress for its lead role, Best Director, and the coveted Golden Jury Award. The film, a poignant exploration of personal and societal struggles, resonated deeply with audiences, elevating its cast and crew to new heights of recognition.
In addition to Safari’s remarkable achievements, Kakanda and Dead Tide also garnered significant accolades. Amina shehu co won Best Actress for KAKANDA as lead actress, bringing to life a compelling narrative on the challenges of VVF. Meanwhile, Dead Tide earned awards for Best Music Score and Best Actor for IKECHUKWU ONANAKU’s performance as Itoro, solidifying its place as a standout production in this year’s lineup. Notably, KAKANDA was also named Best Nigerian Film, affirming its critical and commendable depiction of a Nigerian story.
The night was a testament not only to individual triumphs but also to the collective effort within the film community. Dr. Olasupo Olusi, MD/CEO of the Bank of Industry, was also honored for the bank’s vital institutional 3support of the film industry, which has enabled countless filmmakers to break barriers and reach new heights in storytelling.
In total, the festival received 1876 entries and showcased a total of 72 films over 5 days for their artistic merit and cultural significance, with winners including the following ;
ABUJA INTERNATIONAL FILM
FESTIVAL WINNERS
1. EXPERIMENTAL – MONOLOGUE – NIGERIA
2. SHORT FILM NIGERIA – STORAPY SESIONS – ON COLOS – HOPE OLUWAFEMI
3. FEATURE FILM NIGERIA – KAKANDA
4. SHORT FILM – FOREIGN – ECHOES OF THE PAST – UK
5. OUTSTANDING ACTOR – IKECHUKU ONANUKU – DEAD TIDE – NIGERIA
6. SPECIAL MENTION – AJAKA THE YOKE NIGERIA
7. BEST FEATURE FILM FOREIGN – THE FUNERAL OF KWADAE – GHANA
8. OUTSTANDING MUSIC SCORE – DEAD TIDE
9. OUTSTANDING ACTRESS – OSAS IGHODALOR (SAFARI) & AMINA SHEHU (KAKANDA)
10. OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR – OBI EMELONYE – NIGERIA – SAFARI
11. OUTSTANDING CINEMATOGRAPHY – JUST LIVE – RUSSIA
12. OUTSTANDING STUDENT FILM – MEET ME AT THE PARK – USA/NIG
13. OUTSTANDING DOCUMENTARY – 6 QUEENS AND 6 KINGS – SOUTH AFRICA
14. AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD – THE MASKED KING – NIGERIA
15. OUTSTANDING ANIMATION – BRIDGE, MY LITTLE FRIEND – NIGERIA
16. GOLDEN JURY – SAFARI – NIGERIA
As the curtains came down on the 22nd Abuja International Film Festival, it became clear that film is a global language irrespective of who or where the film was made ….