The 14th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) kicked off on November 2, 2025, with a grand opening ceremony that set the stage for a week of cinematic brilliance and cultural celebration. Hosted at the prestigious Mikano in Victoria Island, Lagos, the opening night was a dazzling affair that brought together the best of African cinema and music.
This year’s theme, “Rhythms of the Continent: The Afrobeats Film Movement,” highlighted the profound connection between African music and filmmaking. The evening began with a star-studded red carpet, where industry veterans, global filmmakers, dignitaries, and cultural icons graced the event in their finest attire. A-list personalities such as Osas Ighodaro, Rita Dominic, Waje, Kunle Remi, Segun Arinze, and many more added glamour to the event.
The ceremony was emceed by the talented comedian and actor Bovi, who entertained the audience with his humor and charm. However, the evening took a poignant turn with a touching tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe, a visionary leader whose legacy of excellence and philanthropy continues to inspire. The Herbert Wigwe Award for Excellence was presented to the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, in a heartfelt moment that resonated with the audience.
The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, represented the Vice President of Nigeria and received the Herbert Wigwe Award for Excellence on his behalf. In a gesture of appreciation, the Minister presented a framed art portrait of AFRIFF’s Founder and CEO, Chioma Ude, recognizing her visionary contributions to African cinema.
Internationally acclaimed actor and filmmaker David Oyelowo, accompanied by his wife Jessica Oyelowo, was also honored with an Award for Excellence for his outstanding contributions to global storytelling and the representation of Africa on the world stage.
The highlight of the evening was the screening of “3 Cold Dishes,” the festival’s official opening film. Directed by Asurf Oluseyi and co-executive produced by Burna Boy and Osas Ighodaro, the film tells the powerful story of three women from Nigeria, Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire who reunite years after surviving human trafficking to seek justice. The screening received resounding applause, setting the tone for a week of compelling storytelling and artistic brilliance.
Since its inception in 2010, AFRIFF has provided a vital platform for African filmmakers to showcase their talent, collaborate, and engage in global exchange. This year, the festival introduced the AFRIFF Film and Content Market (AFCM), an innovative marketplace designed to connect filmmakers, investors, distributors, and digital content creators from across the continent.
Throughout the week, AFRIFF 2025 will feature film screenings, masterclasses, panel discussions, and networking sessions aimed at amplifying African creativity and strengthening the continent’s presence in the global entertainment industry. The festival runs from November 2 to 8, 2025, at various venues across Lagos, promising a week of creativity, connection, and cinematic excellence. AFRIFF 2025 is set to be a spectacular celebration of African excellence, storytelling, and cultural pride that will once again position Africa at the forefront of global cinema. This annual event brings together filmmakers, actors, industry professionals, and movie enthusiasts from around the world to celebrate the rich and diverse talent that Africa has to offer.
The festival features a lineup of exciting film screenings, panel discussions, workshops, and networking events that provide a platform for African filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with industry leaders. From thought-provoking documentaries to captivating feature films, AFRIFF 2025 promises to be a showcase of the best in African cinema.
One of the highlights of the festival is the opening night, which sets the tone for the rest of the event. This year’s opening night was a glamorous affair, with celebrities and industry insiders coming together to celebrate the start of the festival. The red carpet was ablaze with stunning outfits and elegant ensembles, as guests arrived in style to kick off the festivities.
Throughout the festival, attendees can expect to see a diverse range of films that explore various themes and genres, showcasing the talent and creativity of African filmmakers. From powerful dramas to heartwarming comedies, there is something for everyone to enjoy at AFRIFF 2025.
In addition to film screenings, AFRIFF 2025 also offers a variety of workshops and panel discussions that provide valuable insights into the African film industry. Industry professionals share their knowledge and expertise, offering aspiring filmmakers the opportunity to learn from the best in the business.
Overall, AFRIFF 2025 is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about African cinema and storytelling. With its exciting lineup of films, events, and networking opportunities, the festival promises to be a celebration of African talent and creativity. Be sure to visit www.afriff.com for festival details, schedules, and registration information. Title: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. With platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok dominating our daily interactions, it’s no surprise that social media has a significant impact on our mental health.
While social media has its benefits, such as connecting us with friends and family, providing a platform for self-expression, and facilitating communication, there are also negative implications for our mental well-being. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
One of the main reasons why social media can have a negative impact on mental health is the tendency to compare ourselves to others. When we scroll through our feeds and see perfectly curated posts of people living their best lives, it’s easy to feel inadequate and envious. This can lead to a phenomenon known as “social comparison,” where we judge our own self-worth based on the perceived success and happiness of others.
Additionally, the constant exposure to unrealistic beauty standards, lifestyle trends, and highlight reels on social media can distort our perception of reality. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a constant need for validation from others, which can be detrimental to our mental health.
Another aspect of social media that can impact mental health is cyberbullying. With the anonymity that social media provides, individuals may feel emboldened to engage in harmful behaviors such as harassment, trolling, and spreading negativity. This can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and isolation for the victims of cyberbullying, further exacerbating mental health issues.
Moreover, the addictive nature of social media can also have negative consequences on mental health. The constant need to check notifications, likes, and comments can lead to feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out) and a sense of compulsive behavior. This can result in decreased productivity, disrupted sleep patterns, and a lack of real-life social interactions, all of which can have a detrimental impact on mental well-being.
To mitigate the negative impact of social media on mental health, it’s important to practice mindful consumption. This includes setting boundaries for social media use, taking breaks from technology, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being such as exercise, mindfulness, and spending time with loved ones. It’s also important to cultivate a healthy relationship with social media by following accounts that uplift and inspire you, unfollowing accounts that trigger negative emotions, and being mindful of the content you consume.
In conclusion, while social media has revolutionized the way we connect and communicate, it’s important to be mindful of its impact on our mental health. By practicing self-awareness, setting boundaries, and cultivating a healthy relationship with social media, we can mitigate the negative effects and prioritize our mental well-being in the digital age. The world of fashion is an ever-evolving industry that constantly pushes boundaries and challenges norms. From runway shows to street style, fashion is a form of self-expression that allows individuals to showcase their personalities and creativity. One of the most exciting aspects of fashion is the ability to mix and match different pieces to create new and unique looks. This season, fashion enthusiasts are embracing the art of layering to create stylish and versatile outfits.
Layering is a technique that involves wearing multiple pieces of clothing on top of each other to create a visually interesting and dynamic outfit. This trend has been popular for years, but this season it has taken on new life with fresh and innovative styling techniques. From oversized blazers to chunky knit sweaters, there are endless possibilities for layering different pieces to create a look that is both stylish and practical.
One of the key components of successful layering is mixing different textures and fabrics. This season, fashionistas are combining cozy knits with sleek leather pieces for a modern and edgy look. Pairing a chunky sweater with a leather skirt or trousers creates a dynamic contrast that is both visually striking and comfortable to wear. Mixing and matching different textures adds depth and dimension to an outfit, making it more visually interesting and unique.
Another important aspect of layering is playing with proportions. Oversized pieces are a key trend this season, with designers showcasing voluminous silhouettes on the runway. Oversized blazers, chunky sweaters, and wide-leg trousers are all key pieces for creating a layered look that is on-trend and fashion-forward. By mixing oversized pieces with more fitted items, fashion enthusiasts can create a balanced and harmonious outfit that is both stylish and flattering.
Accessories are also a key component of successful layering. Statement belts, scarves, and jewelry can all add an extra layer of interest to an outfit, helping to tie the different pieces together and create a cohesive look. Experimenting with different accessories can help to elevate a layered outfit and make it feel more polished and put-together.
Overall, layering is a versatile and creative styling technique that allows individuals to experiment with different pieces and create unique and personalized outfits. Whether you prefer a sleek and minimalist look or a bold and statement-making ensemble, layering offers endless possibilities for expressing your personal style. So this season, don’t be afraid to mix and match different pieces to create a layered look that is all your own.
