‘The Man Died’ Dominates ZUMA 2025 With Five Major Wins
By BUNMI BUSOLA
THE Wole Soyinka-inspired film The Man Died, directed by Nigerian-born New York University professor, Prof. Awam Amkpa, emerged as the biggest winner at the ZUMA International Film Festival (ZIFF) 2025, clinching five prestigious awards across key categories.
Winners were announced during the ZUMA Awards Night, which marked the grand finale of the 15th edition of the festival. The Man Died secured awards for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Costume and Best Supporting Actor, underscoring its critical and artistic impact at the festival.
According to a statement signed by the Public Affairs Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), Brian Etuk, other notable winners included The Travails of Ajadi by Adeoye Adetunji (Best Animation), The Cashew Rain by Brazil’s Alan Schvarsberg (Best Documentary), and Finding Nina by Famous Eghosa Sarah Ifidon, which won Best Sound and produced Best Actor and Best Actress awards.
The five-day festival held from 1st to 5th December 2025, at Jabi Lake Mall, Silverbird Cinema and Chida Hotels and Events Centre in Abuja, featured diverse categories including indigenous films, short films, student films, music videos and skits, celebrating global cinematic excellence.
