The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) has introduced a new award category in honour of Herbert Wigwe, the late group CEO of Access Holdings PLC.
The ‘Trailblazer Award’ category was launched at the festival’s opening night on Sunday in Victoria Island, Lagos.
Chioma Ude, the founder of Afriff, said the new award category is aimed to honour Wigwe, who died on February 9, 2024, and appreciate his contribution to the creative industry.
This award will recognize Nigerians excelling in creative fields, commemorating Herbert’s legacy in the arts, Ude added.
The first recipients of the award were Benedict Oramah, president of Afreximbank, and Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos state governor.
Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu praised Ude for her efforts in promoting the festival and the entertainment industry.
I think I need to acknowledge Chioma especially. Chioma you have been such a great inspiration to a lot of people, he said.
It is not just the inspiration but your tenacity, can-do spirit, resilience, and sheer commitment that you bring to what you do.
Other notable attendees included comedian Bovi, Lai Mohammed, former minister of information and culture, and Hannatu Musawa, the minister of art, culture, and creative economy.
Also, on Monday, Nigerian-British actor John Boyega was presented with the Trailblazer Award for his outstanding achievements in the film industry.
