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Breaking Through: Nigeria Films at the Cannes Festival 2025

The 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival from May 13 to May 24, 2025 marks a historic turning point for Nigerian cinema. For the first time ever, Nigeria isn’t just participating at the prestigious global event; it’s staking a powerful claim on the world stage.
From a debut national pavilion to the official recognition of two groundbreaking films, Nigeria is rewriting the narrative of African storytelling at Cannes. This year’s festival features 22 films in the Official Selection, but what makes 2025 unforgettable for Nollywood isn’t just the numbers, it’s the quality, boldness, and cultural depth of the stories being told.
This is more than presence. It’s representation with purpose, and a moment that signals a new era for Nigerian film.
Here are the two Nigerian films making waves at Cannes 2025, each bringing a unique story and perspective to the global stage.
My Father’s Shadow
Director: Akinola Davies Jr.
Category: Cannes Official Selection
Premiere Date: May 18, 2025
My Father’s Shadow makes history as the first Nigerian feature film to be included in the Cannes Official Selection. Set against the backdrop of the 1993 Nigerian presidential election, the film follows two brothers navigating a politically tense Lagos with their estranged father.
With raw emotion, political insight, and masterful cinematography, this film represents a milestone for Nigerian storytelling on the global stage.
Osamede
Director: James Omokwe
Category: Cannes Film Market Screening
Screening Date: May 17, 2025
Rooted in African mythology and history, Osamede is a fantasy thriller set in the 1897 Benin Kingdom. It follows a young orphan girl who discovers her superhuman powers and sets out to protect her people against colonial threats. With its stunning visuals and mythical narrative, Osamede is a bold testament to Nollywood’s capacity for genre innovation and world-building.
Its screening at the Cannes Film Market puts the spotlight on Nigeria’s ability to compete at a global scale.
Conclusion
With the groundbreaking inclusion of My Father’s Shadow and the fantasy brilliance of Osamede, Cannes 2025 marks a monumental moment for Nollywood.
This is not just a breakthrough, it’s a blueprint for the next chapter of Nollywood: bold, visionary, and ready to take center stage. Which of these Nigerian films will you watch first? The historical and emotional layers of My Father’s Shadow? The magical, mythical adventure of Osamede? Let me know in the comments which one you’re most excited to see.
Read also: From Nominees to Reigning Stars
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Still Fabulous, Still Grateful – Chioma Ikokwu Turns a Year Bolder

Birthdays are special days set aside to celebrate one’s life on Earth. Today is one of those days; we’re celebrating one of the most inspiring and fabulous women in the beauty industry – Chioma Ikokwu, the founder of ChiomaGoodHair. As she turns a year older, we can’t help but reflect on her incredible journey and the qualities that make her truly unforgettable.

ChiomaGoodHair birthday look
ChiomaGoodHair is a name that you probably associate with the hottest hair extension company in Nigeria, yet what you might not know is the origin of the success of its founder. Chioma Ikokwu started off with an interest in beauty and the dream to change the industry. She started the business of Chioma Good Hair with hard work, determination, and with an eye of finer quality and made it a bespoke beauty product as it is today.

ChiomaGoodHair glammed up for her big day
Still Fabulous, Still Grateful;
So, what’s the secret to Chioma’s success? For starters, her gratitude and humility are qualities that have earned her a special place in the hearts of her customers and fans. Despite her accomplishments, she remains grounded and true to her values. Her fabulous personality, style, and sense of humour only add to her charm, making her a beloved figure in the beauty industry.
In her IG post she wrote “I promise to protect this new version of me with everything I am. Grateful for life and new beginnings. This year didn’t break me. It made me STRONGER!”

Chioma Ikokwu
As Chioma celebrates another year bolder, One thing’s for sure – she’ll continue to inspire and empower women through her brand and platform. Here’s to many more years of good hair, good vibes, and fabulousness!
Happy birthday, ChiomaGoodHair! May this new year bring her continued success, happiness, and blessings. Amen.
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The Incredible Rise of Olivia Mmesoma”

In the ever-evolving Nigerian entrepreneurship society, where persistency is as important as vision, Olivia Ihemeofor – known simply as Oli is directing her life, rewriting the rules her own way. Born on December 31, 2000, Oli’s story from her childhood to building her brand is a testament to strength, passion, and the firm belief that with determination, anything is possible.
Oli’s love for writing and putting words together led her to study Literature in English, a logical decision to nurture an innate passion. “I started writing before getting into college, from primary school,” she shares. This early love for words even translated into a clever side hustle. “I started making money writing essays for my classmates who didn’t do their holidays essays.” Books, she explains, became her sanctuary — “a safe space, an escape from harsh reality” — thanks to her mother, a teacher who encouraged this early love.
Interestingly, Oli initially had gone towards a different path. “At first, I tried to study banking and finance, leaving writing behind, but I dropped off because I wasn’t doing something that brought happiness to me,” she reveals with honesty that speaks volumes. She stressed the important lesson: chasing genuine happiness is key.
And happiness, for Oli, isn’t just found in writing. It’s also found in radiating positivity. “I’ve always been known to light up the room because I find happiness in the little thing no one expects,” she says, a statement that holds up when you meet her. She is also a model — started off modelling for beauty products, and now models her own brand.
Her biggest passion, however, lies in something even more broad: “travelling the world.” For Oli, exploring other cultures, their fashion, and what they stand for — “the world is a very big space.” Her desire to share these discoveries is solid, hinting at future desire to see the world non-stop.
Speaking of which, the genesis of her fashion brand, Via_ng, is as captivating as Oli herself. “I started Via_ng with just five cloths I bought to wear from certain online vendor. I thought, why not post this cute outfit, put my price and go get another one if someone buys because I was really broke that period….”
The entrepreneurial spirit, born out of necessity, shone brightly. “I sold them out in a day and went back to get some more. Within three months, I was able to officially launch it as a brand.”
For Oli, the business is more than just selling clothes. “We have been in business for 2 years now, and it brings me so much joy to see girls on my outfit. The good reviews bring me joy — knowing I bring so much confidence to so many girls out there. In Via_ng our clothes are luxurious and very affordable.” Her commitment to her customers and the confidence she helps them build is evident.
When asked about her inspiration, Oli doesn’t hold back: “Poverty,” she states simply. This raw honesty reveals a powerful drive to create a better life for herself and to empower others. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is equally practical: “Before starting a brand, know your environment.” This keen understanding of her surroundings and market has undoubtedly contributed to Via_ng’s success.
Looking ahead, Oli has ambitious plans for 2025. “In 2025, I’ve been through so much for a girl of my age, so I feel like this is finally the year to call me that girl…. I’ve always longed for financial independence, so this year I’m taking my brand to the next level. Being an entrepreneur in Nigeria is hectic, but we don’t back down in Nigeria, so I’ve decided to bite more than I can chew and chew it at home.”
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A Parisian Night of Glamour: Beyoncé and Jay-Z Reunite on Stage

Beyoncé shocked her fans as she pulled off what was termed the biggest surprise of her Cowboy tour. Without giving out any hint, her husband, Jay-Z, walked onto the stage. It was a moment nobody expected as Paris stood still for the power couple. The fans were excited as he stepped into the spotlight. Cameras and phones kept snapping as 80,000 fans witnessed a reunion of one of the best stars in the world.
Iconic Performances From the Power Couples
The duet started with their routine anthem, “Crazy in Love,” which got the fans elated. While the performances were ongoing, the couple sent people into a frenzy with subtle smiles, glances, and sleek dance moves.
Meanwhile, Jay-Z dropped a lyrical bombshell during the show. Instead of the original Kanye West reference, like “Just might let you meet Ye,”he stylishly changed it to “Just might let you meet Bey.” The crowd caught the shade instantly, and social media blew up within seconds. Talk about serving it cold!
Miley Cyrus Joins the Party
There’s more to the Paris tour, as Beyoncé shocked the crowd with an unexpected visitor. Some days before Jay-Z’s appearance, she brought out Miley Cyrus to perform their new song “ll Most Wanted.” The chemistry between the duo was visible as Miley was able to match Beyoncé’s vocal dexterity and energy.
Read Also :Lady Gaga Shuts Down Protester With Hilarious
The Internet Never Forgets
The social media went into a frenzy after the performance as various hashtags like #CrazyinLoveAgain and #BeyJayParis spread like wildfire. Fans were raving on TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram about what an electric performance it was. There were clips and emotional reactions about the show. While some called it one the best performance they have seen, others begged for a new joint tour.
A Night That Won’t Be Easily Forgotten
The Queen reminded her fans why she still remains on the throne with Jay-Z by her side. The element of surprise had its effect, and her partnership with Jay-Z felt bigger than before. With Miley Cyrus in the mix, the occasion has given the fans a night to discuss for years to come. One thing remains certain: Beyoncé and Jay-Z remain the undisputed power couple in the music industry.
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