As the 79th BAFTA Awards draw near on February 22, 2026, Nigerian cinema is poised for a potentially groundbreaking moment on one of the world’s most prestigious film stages.
This year, nominations include a mix of global heavyweights and works with strong Nigerian roots, fueling excitement over whether 2026 could mark a landmark year for Nigerian storytelling.
Leading the charge is Akinola Davies Jr. and Wale Davies’ My Father’s Shadow — a drama steeped in Nigerian culture, filmed across Lagos and Ibadan, and performed in English, Yoruba, and Nigerian Pidgin. The film is nominated in the Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer category, a recognition that has historically spotlighted rising talent bridging multiple cultures. The film previously made waves at Cannes, earning a Caméra d’Or Special Mention, and its BAFTA nod highlights how Nigerian narratives are capturing global attention.
Adding to the momentum is British‑Nigerian actress Wunmi Mosaku, nominated for Supporting Actress for her role in Sinners, Ryan Coogler’s acclaimed drama also recognized in Best Film and Director categories. Mosaku’s nod follows her recent Oscar nomination, cementing her status as one of Nigeria’s most visible talents on the international awards circuit.
While films like One Battle After Another (14 nods), Sinners (13 nods), Hamnet, and Marty Supreme (11 nods each) dominate the nomination list, the presence of My Father’s Shadow and Mosaku signals a shift toward global recognition of Nigerian stories. Categories span Best Film, Director, Leading and Supporting performances, Screenplay, Visual Effects, and Costume Design, but it’s the spotlight on Nigerian narratives that is turning heads.
Although competition is stiff, the nominations themselves are historic, reflecting a growing respect for Nigerian storytelling, hybrid cultural perspectives, and Nollywood’s rising global influence. A win would not only elevate the filmmakers and actors involved but also shine a light on African cinema as a whole, signalling that stories rooted in African experiences have a rightful place on the world stage.
For Nigeria, 2026 may not just be another awards season — it could be the year the country cements its mark at the BAFTAs, opening doors for future filmmakers and redefining global perceptions of African cinema.
