After several days of screenings, discussions and inspiring encounters, the 13th edition of Nollywood Week came to a vibrant close in Paris. A true showcase for Nigerian and African cinema in France, the festival once again celebrated the creativity, boldness and diversity of stories carried by talents from across the continent.
Sponsored this year by comedian, actor and filmmaker Thomas Ngijol, the edition embraced the theme of travel, taking audiences on a rich cinematic journey open to the world. From Lagos and Mombasa to Yokohama and Paris, the films presented mapped out a sensitive portrait of contemporary African imaginations.
The opening film, East West Love by Nigerian director Seko Shamte, shot between Lagos and Mombasa, set the tone for a festival focused on cultural crossroads and new forms of mobility. The closing film, Ogene, set between Lagos and Yokohama, continued this invitation to travel and cultural exchange.
Beyond the screenings, Nollywood Week stood out for its high-level panels dedicated to the major transformations shaping the audiovisual industry. Artificial intelligence, vertical storytelling and the rise of micro-dramas were among the topics discussed by producers, creators and industry experts exploring the formats and challenges redefining the future of African cinema.
The festival also welcomed several prominent figures from film and television. British actor and producer Adjani Salmon took part in a discussion about diasporas in television series, reflecting on the success of Dreaming Whilst Black and the French-language series Afropolitaine, created by Soraya Milla and Aline Milla.
Many African filmmakers also travelled to Paris to present their works to French audiences, including director Uyoyou Adia for Evi Superstar, filmmaker Kayode Kasum for Reel Love, and Ekene Mekwunye for Ewo.
An Awards List Marked by Boldness and Emotion
The short film jury — composed of Sandra Luce, Alex Louisa and Hervé Moukoko — awarded GOAT (Kenya), praising the film as visually powerful, authentic and deeply rooted in ancestral traditions.
The Best Feature Film award went to Fisherman, directed by Zoey Martinson, recognized for its successful balance of emotion, drama and humor. The distinction was historic, marking the first time a Ghanaian female director has won this prize at Nollywood Week.
Finally, the audience award went to Onobiren, a film that captivated viewers with its moving story about identity, life choices and the freedom to reinvent oneself. The audience’s choice echoed Fisherman, as both films share a symbolic exploration of the world of fishing.
