Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has felicitated with Nigeria’s film director Akinola Davies Jr. for scripting and directing Nigeria’s first movie ever to make it to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in nearly 80 years.

‘My Father’s Shadow,’ set in Lagos in the aftermath of the 1993 Presidential election was officially announced on Thursday by organisers to compete at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival billed for May 13-24, 2025.

She expressed her excitement for the selection, congratulating the cast, crew, and creative team behind ‘My Father’s Shadow’. She stated that the achievement is a landmark moment for Nigerian cinema and storytelling, showcasing the richness of Nigerian stories, the depth of artistic talent, and the beauty of cultural identity.

She said the achievement was not only a personal milestone for Davies and the remarkable team at Fatherland Productions but a landmark moment for Nigerian cinema and storytelling.

‘My Father’s Shadow’ stands as a powerful testament to what is possible when homegrown talent is nurtured, empowered, and given the space to shine. With a predominantly Nigerian cast and crew, the film reflects the richness of our stories, the depth of our artistry, and the beauty of our cultural identity.

“This Cannes selection is a ringing endorsement of the transformative power of Nigerian creativity. It shows the world that we are not just participants but contenders—ready to shape the global narrative with our unique voice, vision, and excellence,” Musawa said.

The movie will screen at the ‘Un Certain Regard’ strand, a prominent section within the Cannes Film Festival’s official selection that showcases films by new talents, ascendant producers and international cinema.

The minister also commended Fatherland Productions for their African storytelling which has earned them a recognition by BAFTA and Sundance Film Festivals, saying they have shown what it means to carry the Nigerian flag with grace and brilliance on the world stage.

“Let this achievement ignite the dreams of the next generation of Nigerian storytellers. Let it reaffirm our commitment to creating an enabling environment for creativity to thrive, and let it remind us all that Nigerian art, culture, and talent know no bounds,” Musawa stated.

‘My Father’s Shadow’ is among the 2,909 feature films screened to curate its 2025 line up. The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy is also expected to launch ‘Screen Nigeria’ as part of Destination 2030: Everywhere campaign at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. This initiative aims to promote Nigeria’s audiovisual industry and showcase the country’s creative talent to a global audience. (AriseNews TV)