Nollywood movie ‘Safari’ wins overall best film at 22nd Abuja international film festival
The Nollywood movie ‘Safari’ emerged as the top winner at the 22nd Abuja International Film Festival (AIFF), receiving the Golden Jury Award for Overall Best Film.
The award was presented at the festival’s closing ceremony on Monday in Abuja.
The 2025 AIFF, held from November 6 to 10, carried the theme “From Script to Nation: The Role of Film in Shaping National Identity.”
‘Safari’ was nominated in five categories and won three major awards, including Outstanding Director, Outstanding Actress, and the prestigious Golden Jury Award.
Actress Osas Ighodaro won the Outstanding Actress award for her role in the film, while veteran director Obi Emelonye, who also produced the movie, received the Outstanding Director accolade.
The star-studded cast of ‘Safari’ includes Osas Ighodaro, Jide Achufusi, Emmanuel Mugo, Ken Ambani, and Ali Nuhu, among others.
Emelonye expressed his delight at the recognition and thanked the festival organizers and Providus Bank, whose support helped bring the award-winning film to life.
“We have worked very hard since last year to make this film and bring it to the people.
”Winning three awards at AIFF 2025 is truly an honor,” Emelonye said, noting that the film would open in cinemas on November 21.
Other notable winners at AIFF 2025 includeExperimental Film: Monologue (Nigeria)
Outstanding Animation Film: Bridge My Little Friends (Japan)
Outstanding Cinematography: Just Live (Russia)
Outstanding Short Film (Foreign): Echoes From the Past (UK)
Outstanding Actor: Ikechukwu Onanuku for Dead Tide
Outstanding Short Film (Nigeria): Storapy Sessions on Colos
Outstanding Documentary Film: Six Kings & Six Queens (South Africa)
Feature Film (Nigeria): Kakanda (Toka Mcbaror)
Outstanding Student Film: Meet Me at the Park (USA)
Special Mention: Ajaga the Yoke (Nigeria)
The awards reflected AIFF’s ongoing commitment to showcasing excellence in filmmaking both locally and internationally, highlighting works that contribute to national and global storytelling.
