…as Gov Oborevwori,  Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, others honoured

By Benjamin Njoku

The maiden edition of the Warri International Film Festival (WIFF) wrapped up on Thursday evening with Temisan Ereyitomi’s production, “Break of Dawn,” sweeping seven   of ten nominations to lead the pack.

Directed by Umanu Elijah, the film also served as the festival’s closing feature, running from Monday, December 8, to Thursday, December 12. Awards won by “Break of Dawn” include Best Producer/Film, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Soundtrack, Best Editing , Best Director and Best Feature Length Film. The film beat Bamidele Adelusi’s “SUKY,” which captured three awards: Best Cinematography, Best Lighting and Best Upcoming Actor from twelve nominations. Cameroon’s “Dead Man’s Wish,” with six nominations, took home the Best Screenplay award,while “Love from Bayelsa” won the Best Short Film award.

Screened as the closing film, “Break of Dawn” was praised for its storyline, entertainment value and treatment of contemporary issues. The narrative follows a wealthy politician’s daughter who becomes entangled in a dangerous money‑ritual deal, leading to a high‑stakes battle of wits before sunrise.

Jury president Amayo Uzo Philips explained that the winners were chosen because their works stood out in an exceptionally strong field. He highlighted the African‑rooted stories, global resonance and bold experimentation with form, culture and emotion that defined the submissions. “Cinema is not just entertainment; it is memory, activism, courage, and healing,” he said.

The festival also recognized several prominent Nigerians, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi (member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Comrade Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, Chairman of Warri South Local Government,Chief Ayiri Emami (The Ologbotsere of Warri Kingdom) for their contributions to Nigeria’s motion‑picture industry. Other awardees were Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), Chief Kestin Pondi , Chief Wale Adenuga, MFR, veteran actor Richard Mofe Damijo, Opa Williams, Chief Gab Onyi Okoye (Igwe Gabosky) and more.

Also, Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to veteran filmmakers Andy Boyo, Joe Dudu, and Dr. Shaibu Hussein, Director‑General and Chief Executive of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), among others. The closing ceremony featured performances by emerging music acts, adding energy to the evening.

In his closing remarks, WIFF founder Comrade Alex Eyengho pledged to maintain the momentum and build on the success of the inaugural edition next year. He emphasized  that the essence of Warri International Film Festival (WARRIFF) is to attract people from far and wide, and to showcase the best of Nigerian and international cinema.

“We are committed to creating a platform for filmmakers to share their stories, showcase their talents, and connect with audiences from around the world”, he concluded.