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The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is returning in 2025 with a renewed commitment to spotlighting African creativity and innovation – this time through the Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence, a highlight of the festival dedicated to celebrating outstanding Africans who are contributing positively to the continent.
The AFRIFF returning in 2025 will take place from November 2 to 8 with a renewed commitment to spotlighting African creativity.
This 14th edition of AFRIFF will be themed “Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeats Film Movement.” The Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence is named in honour of the late Herbert Wigwe, a man whose legacy continues to inspire bold leadership, innovation, and investment in Africa’s creative economy. The awards will celebrate outstanding individuals who embody the same spirit of excellence and transformation that Wigwe championed throughout his life.
“The Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence is more than a tribute – it’s a movement,” said Chioma Ude, Founder and Executive Director of AFRIFF. “Herbert believed deeply in the power of African talent to compete globally. Through this award, we’re honouring that vision by recognising creative leaders who are breaking barriers and inspiring new generations to dream bigger.”
On the opening night of AFRIFF, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigerian, Kashim Shettima and the Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, and, will each receive awards for their immerse contributions to growth, innovation and excellence in their respective fields , the closing night will also honour Nigerian lawyer and distinguished technocrat, Hakeem Muri-Okunola and internationally acclaimed actor David Oyelowo.
This year’s AFRIFF will also mark the launch of the AFRIFF Film and Content Market (AFCM) – Nigeria’s first and only film and content marketplace. The AFCM will serve as a business hub connecting filmmakers, distributors, and investors, furthering AFRIFF’s mission to build a sustainable ecosystem for African content creation and monetisation.
Alongside screenings, masterclasses, and workshops, AFRIFF 2025 will screen over 100 films from across Africa and the diaspora, showcasing the diversity and creativity that define African cinema today.
With its blend of artistry, commerce, and celebration, AFRIFF 2025 promises to be a landmark edition – honouring the trailblazers shaping Africa’s cultural renaissance and ensuring that Herbert Wigwe’s legacy of empowerment lives on through every frame, beat, and story told.
