Wigwe’s legacy took centre stage at the 2025 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). The prestigious Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence were presented to outstanding leaders, artists, and cultural influencers. The festival concluded in grand style at the Oriental Hotel’s Banquet Hall in Lekki, Lagos. This event celebrated African creativity, leadership, and innovation.
AFRIFF 2025 Grand Finale Highlights
The 14th edition of AFRIFF was themed “Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeats Film Movement.” It featured over 100 film screenings, engaging masterclasses, workshops, and high-level industry conversations. In addition, a major milestone was the launch of the AFRIFF Film and Content Market (AFCM). This is Nigeria’s first dedicated film and content marketplace. It connects filmmakers, investors, distributors, and global partners.
Honouring Excellence: The Herbert Wigwe Awards
The Herbert Wigwe Award for Excellence celebrates the life and vision of Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe. He was a champion of Africa’s creative economy and a key supporter of AFRIFF. Furthermore, the award recognises individuals who embody Wigwe’s values of visionary leadership, innovation, and transformative impact.
2025 Award Recipients
This year’s honourees represented a powerful blend of artistry, governance, and public service. They include:
- David Oyelowo – Internationally acclaimed Hollywood actor promoting African stories worldwide.
- Flavour – Award-winning musician whose cultural influence resonates across Africa.
- H.E. Peter Mbah – Governor of Enugu State, celebrated for governance reforms and developmental strides.
- Hakeem Muri-Okunola – Principal Secretary to the President, recognised for administrative excellence and youth-focused initiatives.
- Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori – Governor of Delta State, honoured for socio-economic development and support for youth and creative industries.
The announcement of winners drew enthusiastic applause from filmmakers, cultural leaders, and dignitaries. Indeed, it reinforced the award’s role in spotlighting Africans shaping the continent’s future.
AFRIFF Founder Speaks on the Award
Chioma Ude, AFRIFF Founder and Executive Director, described the award as “a legacy tool to keep Herbert Wigwe’s vision alive.” She added that Wigwe believed deeply in Africa’s global potential. Moreover, he invested his life in platforms that elevated African voices, creativity, and talent.
Closing Night and Cultural Celebration
The festival concluded with a moving performance by the Lord Urban Choir, leaving guests inspired. In addition, it celebrated one of AFRIFF’s most impactful editions. As AFRIFF 2025 wraps, the festival continues to honour the trailblazers of Africa’s cultural and socio-economic renaissance. Consequently, Herbert Wigwe’s legacy endures through every story told and every leader celebrated.
Media Contact:
Latasha Ngwube
Head, AFRIFF PR & Media Relations
Email: prforfestival@gmail.com
Website: www.afriff.com
