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The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) announces its 14th edition, scheduled to run from November 2nd to 8th, 2025. Under the theme “Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeats Film Movement,” this year’s festival will introduce the prestigious Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence, dedicated to celebrating outstanding Africans making significant positive contributions to the continent.
Named in honour of the late Herbert Wigwe, the award commemorates a legacy of bold leadership, innovation, and dedicated investment in Africa’s creative economy.
The award will recognize outstanding individuals who embody the same spirit of excellence and transformation that Mr. Wigwe championed throughout his life.
“The Herbert Wigwe Awards for Excellence is more than a tribute—it’s a movement,” stated 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 inaugural awards will honour several distinguished individuals across the festival:
Opening Night: Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, and Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, will be recognized for their immense contributions to growth and innovation.
Closing Night: Honours will be bestowed upon Nigerian lawyer and distinguished technocrat, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, and internationally acclaimed actor David Oyelowo.
In addition to the new awards, AFRIFF 2025 will launch the AFRIFF Film and Content Market (AFCM), Nigeria’s first and only dedicated film and content marketplace. The AFCM is designed to serve as a pivotal business hub, connecting filmmakers, distributors, and investors. This initiative aims to further AFRIFF’s mission of building a sustainable ecosystem for African content creation and monetization.
The festival’s robust programming will include masterclasses, workshops, and the screening of over 100 films from across Africa and the diaspora, showcasing the diversity and creativity that define contemporary African cinema.
AFRIFF 2025 promises to be a landmark edition, blending artistry, commerce, and celebration. The festival will honour the trailblazers shaping Africa’s cultural renaissance while ensuring that Herbert Wigwe’s legacy of empowerment endures through every frame, beat, and story told.
