AFRIFF 2025: Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence to Celebrate Visionary African Trailblazers

The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) returns in 2025 with a renewed commitment to celebrating African creativity and innovation — this time through the Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence, a major highlight of the festival dedicated to honouring outstanding Africans making remarkable contributions to the continent’s progress.

The 14th edition of AFRIFF, themed “Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeats Film Movement,” will take place from November 2nd to 8th, 2025.

The Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence is named in memory of the late Herbert Wigwe, whose visionary leadership, innovation, and investments in Africa’s creative economy continue to inspire transformation across the continent. The awards will recognize exceptional individuals who exemplify the spirit of excellence and leadership that Wigwe embodied.

> “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 celebrating creative leaders who are breaking barriers and inspiring new generations to dream bigger.”

On AFRIFF’s opening night, Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, and Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, will each be honoured for their contributions to innovation, growth, and excellence in their respective fields. The closing night will also recognize Hakeem Muri-Okunola, a distinguished technocrat and lawyer, alongside David Oyelowo, the internationally acclaimed Nigerian actor, for their exceptional achievements.

This year’s festival will also witness the official launch of the AFRIFF Film and Content Market (AFCM) — Nigeria’s first-ever film and content marketplace. The AFCM aims to serve as a vibrant business hub connecting filmmakers, distributors, and investors, advancing AFRIFF’s mission to build a sustainable ecosystem for African storytelling, production, and monetization.

Alongside its awards, screenings, masterclasses, and workshops, AFRIFF 2025 will showcase over 100 films from across Africa and the diaspora, reflecting the rich diversity, innovation, and dynamism that define African cinema today.

With its fusion of artistry, commerce, and celebration, AFRIFF 2025 promises to be a landmark edition — spotlighting the pioneers shaping Africa’s cultural renaissance and carrying forward Herbert Wigwe’s enduring legacy of empowerment through every frame, rhythm, and story told.

For registration and participation, visit www.afriff.com.