Nigerians recorded major victories at the BAFTA Awards 2026 ceremony as Wunmi Mosaku and siblings Akinola Davies Jr. and Wale Davies claimed top honours.
The BAFTA is an annual awards ceremony organised by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts to recognise achievement in acting and filmmaking.
Wunmi Mosaku Wins Best Supporting Actress
Mosaku won Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Sinners”. She previously won the same BAFTA category in 2017 for “Damilola”, “Our Loved Boy”.
Her performance in “Sinners” was widely praised for its depth and nuance. Her portrayal of Dola was noted for its compelling depiction of complex family dynamics.
On receiving the award, she said:
“Thank you BAFTA for this incredible honour. To my daughter, you are my greatest teacher. I am so proud of you, everything begins and ends with you.”
Her latest win reinforces her position as one of the most recognised African actors in both British and Hollywood productions.
My Father’s Shadow Earns Outstanding Debut Award
The Nigerian-produced film “My Father’s Shadow”, written and directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and co-produced with his brother Wale Davies, received the Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer award.
The film tells the story of a father and his two sons navigating Lagos during the tense aftermath of the abortive June 12, 1993, elections.
“My Father’s Shadow” became the first Nigerian production selected for the official Cannes Film Festival lineup, screening in the Un Certain Regard section, where it received critical acclaim.
Akinola Davies Jr. dedicated the award “to all those whose parents migrated to make a better life for their children”, adding that “your stories matter more than ever.”
A Defining Moment for Nigerian Cinema
The BAFTA announcement described My Father’s Shadow as a “remarkable debut.” The recognition highlighted the film’s international reception and demonstrated the ability of Nigerian cinema to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The achievements of Wunmi Mosaku, Akinola Davies Jr., and Wale Davies represent a defining moment for Nigeria.
Leave a comment