THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
The magic of cinema shone brightly as the Nollywood Film Festival Germany (NFFG) and the Nollywood Europe Golden Awards (NEGA) concluded in spectacular fashion, celebrating two unforgettable days of storytelling, creativity, and cultural pride.
A Grand Opening at Deutsches Filmmuseum
The festival opened on August 8 at the prestigious Deutsches Filmmuseum with the world premiere of KARMA, produced by festival curator Isaac Izoya and directed by Dr Henry Obidi.
The premiere drew a distinguished audience of filmmakers, actors, producers, critics, dignitaries and film lovers. Notable attendees included Ambassador Dr. Yakubu Dadu, Nigerian Consular General in Frankfurt, Dorothee Wenner (Berlinale and Box Office Around the World board member, Head of AAMA), Svetlana Svyatskaya (Head of Film, Visual Media, and Digitization, Kulturamt Frankfurt), Benjamin James (former Assistant Coach, Nigerian Super Eagles), and Dr. Okoro Akinyemi (Head of International Advocacy for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption, President of Africans in Diaspora UK).
KARMA – A Story of Justice and Redemption
KARMA captivated the audience with its gripping narrative and stellar performances, exploring themes of love, deception, justice and redemption against the struggles of undocumented immigrants. The cast featured both Nollywood and German talents, including Alex Usifo, Ngozi Ezeonu, Sarian Martin Oruene, Isaac Izoya, Marie Cloos, Sophie Stelker, Chioma Akuezue, Melisa Ngongang, and Festus Ekhator. A standing ovation followed the screening.
Festival Director Isaac Izoya reflected on the mission of NFFG:
“This festival celebrates the power of film to unite, inspire and challenge perspectives. Karma embodies the depth and diversity of modern cinema, and we are proud that Frankfurt has become an annual cultural destination for Africans and friends of Africa. Our commitment to promoting intercultural integration in Frankfurt and beyond remains strong.”
The evening also featured The Masked King, produced by Francis Ohazulike and Joshua Cassidy, directed by Patrick Uduak-Obong, which thrilled the audience with suspense and dramatic flair.
Ambassador Dr Yakubu Dadu praised the opening night:
“There is no better way to begin a festival than what we witnessed today. I am proud of Ehizoya Golden Entertainment e.V. for projecting Nigeria’s image positively to the world.”
Day Two: NEGA Gala Night – Glamour, Music & Celebration
On August 9, the spotlight shifted to the Nollywood Europe Golden Awards (NEGA) Gala Night at the Goethe University, Frankfurt. The prestigious ceremony honoured outstanding achievements in Nollywood and celebrated trailblazers driving creativity and excellence.
The red carpet came alive with cultural icons and dignitaries, including Ambassador Dadu, Ms Svetlana Svyatskaya, Mrs Stephania A.A Alofuokhai-Ghogomu (JP), Dr Moses Ogun (President, NIDO Germany), actress Simba Cassie Kabwita (Zambia), Dr Emeka Ani and Dr Akinyemi (London).
Music, Awards & Unforgettable Moments
The gala delivered electrifying live performances from Influence Akaba (Nigeria), Stella Pius (UK), Endibanton, Ni-German Queen of Germany, Sister Blessing (Germany), alongside DJs Stone and Rock, who kept the hall buzzing with energy.
Award highlights included special limousine arrivals and tributes to Nollywood icons:
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Funke Akindele – Nollywood Highest Grossing Movie Director
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Charles Inojie – Nollywood Outstanding Philanthropist
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Rita Edochie – Nollywood Evergreen Veteran Actor
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Dadu honoured fallen entertainment heroes with a minute of silence, before praising Izoya:
“Isaac Izoya deserves nothing short of a national honour for promoting Nigeria on the world stage since 2002. We at the mission will continue to support his vision of showcasing Nigeria’s cultural heritage globally.”
Speaking for the awardees, Charles Inojie remarked:
“Ehizoya Golden Entertainment has achieved what governments should be doing. Supporting this vision benefits Nigeria, Africa, Germany and Europe at large.”
The night concluded with a dazzling after-party performance by Influence Akaba, leaving Frankfurt electrified.
Praise & Reflections
Audience members and dignitaries alike hailed the 2025 edition:
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Madam Tina Omoragbon (aka Mama Sharon):
“Oga Izoya, this is one of your best events ever. I enjoyed myself to the fullest—even came home without my shoes! Thanks to your team for putting such a show together.”
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Madam Faith Ogoigbe (aka Pocket Lawyer):
“After watching Karma, I knew you were ready for greatness this year. I had so much fun tonight and I’m already looking forward to next year. May God keep us alive.”
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Dr. Moses Ogun, President of NIDO Germany:
“I truly enjoyed myself. I look forward to a collaboration between NIDO and your organization to take this event to the next level.”
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Dr. Emeka Ani (first-time attendee):
“This was my first time at your festival, and I do not regret a single moment. We must join hands with you to elevate it further—you are doing the work of Nigeria and deserve full support.”
A Legacy of Culture & Excellence
From the moving premiere of KARMA to the glamour of the NEGA Gala, this year’s edition reinforced Frankfurt’s place as a hub of cultural exchange and cinematic excellence.
Festival curator Isaac Izoya closed with a powerful reminder:
“We dream to change the world through film stories. Though we lack capital for productions, we will keep pushing with the hope of support to realize our dreams. Our motto remains: The Show Must Go On!”
NFFG/NEGA 2025 was indeed an unforgettable two-day celebration of Nollywood, culture and global unity.
