AFRIFF 2025 dazzled in Lagos with global stars, celebrating African cinema, creativity, and cultural excellence
AFRIFF 2025 lit up Lagos in breathtaking fashion as stars, filmmakers, and cultural icons gathered for the 14th Annual Africa International Film Festival on 2 November 2025.
It was a night that captured the very essence of African creativity, elegance, and storytelling brilliance.
The red carpet sparkled with an array of celebrity appearances, including the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, alongside Nollywood favourites Rita Dominic, Uche Jombo, Ruth Kadiri, Kunle Remi, Omowunmi Dada, Williams Uchemba, and Sunshine Rosman.
Also gracing the event were Tunde Onakoya, the Guinness World Record-holding chess champion, and Adenike Adeleke (Nikos Living), adding glamour and social flair to the night.
AFRIFF’s founder, Chioma Ude, made a stunning entrance, embodying elegance and poise as she welcomed guests to another remarkable edition of the festival — one that continues to define African cinema’s golden era.
A major highlight came with the appearance of Hollywood actor David Oyelowo and his wife Jessica Oyelowo, honoured with the prestigious Herbert Wigwe Award for Excellence for their outstanding contributions to global film and creativity.
During his address, Oyelowo expressed excitement about new ventures in Nigeria, including a planned Apple and Idris Elba adaptation of Things Fall Apart, scheduled to begin production in 2026.
The night also featured the world premiere of 3 Cold Dishes, a gripping pan-African revenge thriller executive produced by Burna Boy and actress Osas Ighodaro.
Director Asurf Olaniyi shared insights into the film’s creation, calling it “a bold African story told with global heart.” The film hits cinemas across Africa and the UK on 7 November 2025.
In a heartfelt moment, Minister Musawa presented Chioma Ude with a personal artwork, honouring her visionary impact on African film and culture.
Another memorable highlight was the presentation of the Herbert Wigwe Award of Excellence to Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, and Delta State Governor, both represented by Musawa and Deputy Governor Sir Monday John Onyeme respectively — a proud recognition of leadership and dedication to the arts.
As the festival opened, the atmosphere buzzed with promise. AFRIFF 2025 is not merely a film event — it is a celebration of art, unity, and African excellence, setting the tone for a transformative week of cinema, creativity, and collaboration.
Business3 years ago
