Nollywood scored another major international recognition as Extra Mile, a feature film by Five2 Media and Entertainment, clinched the award for Best Film by a Female Filmmaker – Nollywood at the 2025 edition of the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF).
The film, executive produced by Solate Ovundah-Akarolo and co-produced with Joy Grant, stood out at the prestigious festival for its compelling narrative, strong performances, and bold artistic vision. With a storyline anchored on friendship, betrayal, and resilience, Extra Mile struck a chord with both audiences and jurors, who praised its honesty and emotional depth.
Featuring an ensemble cast of Nollywood heavyweights including Mercy Johnson, Jim Iyke, and Lilian Esoro, the film weaves together star power and meaningful storytelling. Critics noted that while the performances added gravitas, what truly set the production apart was its ability to explore universal themes through a distinctly Nigerian lens, blending intimacy with cultural resonance.
Speaking on the recognition, producer Joy Grant described the win as “an encouragement for female voices in Nollywood to keep breaking boundaries and telling stories that matter.” The award, she added, was not just for the filmmakers but also for every woman pushing creative limits in an industry long dominated by male directors.
The accolade was received on behalf of Five2 Media in Toronto by Oraye St. Franklyn, the company’s Canada-based communications lead, who conveyed the team’s gratitude to the festival and dedicated the award to the entire cast and crew. “This victory belongs to every individual who worked tirelessly to bring Extra Mile to life,” he said.
For Executive Producer Solate Ovundah-Akarolo, the honour extends beyond personal achievement, signaling a shift in Nollywood where women are increasingly leading from the front. “This award is a turning point,” she remarked. “It shows that female filmmakers are not only participating but being celebrated globally for the powerful stories they tell.”
Beyond the trophy, industry watchers say the recognition strengthens Nollywood’s global presence. With African cinema gaining traction at festivals worldwide, Extra Mile serves as proof that local Nigerian stories can find wide international appeal. The film’s themes, though rooted in Nigerian realities, touch on struggles and emotions that resonate across cultures.
The star-studded TINFF gala drew filmmakers and actors from across the globe, including Nollywood’s Ayo Makun (AY) and Julius Agwu, further underlining the growing influence of Nigerian cinema abroad. For Nollywood, Extra Mile is not just a single victory but a sign of its steady rise in world cinema — and a reminder that when women step into the frame as storytellers, the results are often broader, bolder, and richer.
