The 17th edition of the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards lit up the National Theatre in Lagos with glamour, excitement, and well‑deserved recognition for the industry’s brightest talents. This year’s ceremony showcased the strength of Nigerian storytelling, the evolution of film production, and the creative energy driving Nollywood forward.
At the center of the spotlight were two standout productions: Farmers Bride and Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors. Each dominated different aspects of the event, making the night unforgettable.
Farmers Bride Wins Big With Top Awards
Without a doubt, Farmers Bride emerged as the biggest overall winner. The film took home two of the most prestigious honors: Movie of the Year and Director of the Year. These wins reflect the film’s emotional depth, strong direction, and its ability to connect with both audiences and critics.
Seven Doors Dominates Technical Categories
Meanwhile, Femi Adebayo’s hit series Seven Doors proved to be the most prolific winner of the night. The film swept four major technical categories, showcasing its exceptional craftsmanship and visual brilliance. It won the Best in :
– Production Design
– Special Effect
– Series
– Cinematography
These victories highlight Nollywood’s growing focus on high‑quality production and technical innovation.
Acting Categories: Black Out Sweeps Lead Roles
The acting categories delivered another highlight. The film Black Out secured both major lead acting awards:
– Best Actor – Gideon Okeke
– Best Actress – Padita Agu
Their performances were praised for emotional intensity and powerful screen presence.
Supporting Roles and Special Moments
In the supporting categories, remarkable talent was also recognized. Mercy Aigbe won Best Supporting Actress for My Mother Is a Witch, while Taye Ayimoro earned Best Supporting Actor for Son of the Soil.
One of the most talked‑about moments came from the Best Kiss award, which went to Tobi Bakre and Folu Storms for their chemistry in Red Cycle.
Celebrating Culture and Emerging Talent
Beyond the top prizes, the BON Awards honored cultural storytelling and rising stars. Abanisete won Best Indigenous Film, while Razaaq Adoti (Son of the Soil) and Una Idoko (I Am Anis) were named Most Promising Actor and Most Promising Actress, respectively. These wins reflect the future of Nollywood and the importance of nurturing new voices.
Special Recognition Awards
Three industry icons received special recognition for their lasting contributions to Nigerian cinema:
– Steve Ayorinde
– Funke Akindele
– Dr. Shaibu Husseini
Their influence continues to shape the industry’s growth and global reach.
Full Winners List
- Director of the Year – Farmers Bride
- Best Series – Seven Doors
- Best Cinematography – Seven Doors
- Movie of the Year – Farmers Bride
- Best Special Effect – Seven Doors
- Best Editing – Reel Love
- Best Documentary – Beyond Football
- Best Production Design – Seven Doors
- Best Screenplay – My Mother Is a Witch
- Best Use of Makeup – Labake Olododo
- Best Child Actress – Ijelu Folajimi Sharon (Son of the Soil)
- Most Promising Actor – Razaaq Adoti (Son of the Soil)
- Most Promising Actress – Una Idoko (I Am Anis)
- Best Use of Food – Owambe Thieves
- Best Indigenous – Abanisete
- Best Child Actor – Ahmed Isa (Finding Nina)
- Best Costume – Seven Doors
- Best Sound – Agemo
- Best Soundtrack – Iyalode
- Best Kiss – Tobi Bakre & Folu Storms (Red Cycle)
- Best Social Message – Mayomi
- Best Short Film – Egbeji
- Best Actress – Padita Agu (Black Out)
- Best Supporting Actor – Taye Ayimoro (Son of the Soil)
- Best Supporting Actress – Mercy Aigbe (My Mother Is a Witch)
- Best Actor – Gideon Okeke (Black Out)
Conclusion
The 17th BON Awards delivered a memorable night that celebrated the heart and soul of Nollywood. With Farmers Bride taking top honors and Seven Doors dominating the technical categories, the ceremony showcased the industry’s growth, diversity, and creative excellence. As new talents rise and established stars continue to shine, Nollywood’s future looks brighter than ever.
