British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr. has achieved a monumental cultural milestone by officially receiving the BAFTA for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer at the 2026 ceremony in London. His debut film, “My Father’s Shadow,” earned him this prestigious award, marking a significant victory following its historic selection last year as the first-ever Nigerian film to be included in the Cannes Film Festival’s Official Selection, specifically in the Un Certain Regard category.

The celebration of Nigerian talent continued with fellow British-Nigerian star Wunmi Mosaku also having a remarkable night. Mosaku secured the Best Supporting Actress award for her compelling performance as Annie in the supernatural thriller, “Sinners.” This latest achievement is her second BAFTA win, building on her success from the 2021 TV award for “Damilola, Our Loved Boy.” She also notably received a Leading Actress nomination in 2021 for her role in the horror hit “His House.”

“My Father’s Shadow” is described as a profoundly raw and beautifully crafted narrative set against the backdrop of the 1993 Nigerian election crisis. The film features the talented Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù as a father who embarks on a transformative day trip through the vibrant streets of Lagos with his two young sons, played by real-life brothers Chibuike Marvellous Egbo and Godwin Egbo. Akinola Davies Jr. was committed to authenticity, famously insisting on shooting the entire film on location in Lagos and Ibadan to capture the genuine Nigerian spirit and energy.

The recognition of Akinola Davies Jr.'s vision alongside an accomplished veteran like Wunmi Mosaku at the BAFTAs underscores a pivotal moment, affirming that Nigerian excellence is now firmly established as a central and leading force in global cinema.