The Africa International Film Festival is set to return in 2025 with a renewed commitment to celebrating African creativity, innovation, and excellence; this time spotlighting the Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence, a major highlight of the festival dedicated to honouring outstanding Africans making positive contributions to the continent.
The 14th edition of the festival will take place from November 2 to 8, 2025, under the theme “Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeats Film Movement.”
The Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence is named in honour of the late Herbert Wigwe, whose visionary leadership, innovation, and dedication to Africa’s creative economy continue to inspire new generations. The awards will celebrate individuals whose work reflects the same spirit of transformation and excellence that defined Wigwe’s legacy.
“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 recognizing creative leaders who are breaking barriers and inspiring new generations to dream bigger.”
The opening night of AFRIFF will see Vice President Kashim Shettima and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah honoured for their immense contributions to growth, innovation, and excellence in their respective fields. The closing night will also celebrate Hakeem Muri-Okunola, a distinguished technocrat and Nigerian lawyer, alongside internationally acclaimed actor David Oyelowo.
This year’s edition will also mark the official launch of the AFRIFF Film and Content Market; Nigeria’s first and only film and content marketplace. Designed as a business hub for filmmakers, distributors, and investors, the AFCM seeks to strengthen Africa’s creative ecosystem and promote sustainable monetization of African stories.
In addition to the awards, masterclasses, and networking events, AFRIFF 2025 will screen more than 100 films from across Africa and the diaspora, showcasing the diversity, innovation, and vibrancy of African cinema today.
With its blend of artistry, commerce, and cultural celebration, AFRIFF 2025 promises to be a landmark edition — one that not only honours the trailblazers shaping Africa’s creative renaissance but also ensures that Herbert Wigwe’s legacy of empowerment continues to live on through every frame, beat, and story told.
