By Prosper Mene, April 14, 2025
Excitement showed across Nigeria’s creative scene as online conversations lit up with pride for women in the arts, particularly those shaping Nollywood’s bright future. At the heart of the buzz was “My Father’s Shadow,” a groundbreaking film by Akinola Davies Jr., which has earned a historic spot in the 2025 Cannes Film Festival’s Official Selection. The milestone sparked widespread celebration, with many spotlighting the vital role Nigerian women are playing in elevating the country’s film industry on the global stage.
Social media platforms buzzed with praise for Nollywood’s female trailblazers, producers, writers, actors, and directors who are pushing boundaries and telling authentic Nigerian stories. Funmbi Ogunbanwo, the film’s co-producer and CEO of Fatherland Productions, was a point of admiration for her work in bringing “My Father’s Shadow” to life. The film, a deeply personal drama set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s 1993 presidential election, weaves together Yoruba, Pidgin, and the vibrant streets of Lagos and Ibadan, resonating with audiences for its cultural authenticity.
“Women like Funmbi are showing the world what Nigerian creativity can do,” one online post read, capturing the sentiment of many who see this Cannes selection as a win for female filmmakers. Discussions cited how women are not only starring in Nollywood’s stories but also steering its direction, crafting narratives that reflect Nigeria’s rich heritage and complex realities. From Uzoamaka Aniunoh’s powerful performance in the film to the countless women behind the scenes, the contributions of Nigeria’s female talent were front and center.
For many, this moment feels like a turning point, a chance for Nigerian women to claim their space in global cinema. “Our women are telling stories that matter, and the world is finally listening,” another fan shared online, summing up the pride swelling across the nation.
Come Cannes 2025, from May 13 to 24, Nigeria’s creative community is rallying behind “My Father’s Shadow” and the women helping make it a reality. Their work is a reminder that Nollywood’s heart beats strong, driven by the vision and resilience of its female storytellers, ready to captivate audiences worldwide.
