MTN shows support for African filmmakers

L-R: Orire Nwani, Director, Hussaini; Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN Nigeria; Josh Olaoluwa, Producer, Hussaini; and Yahaya Ibrahim, Chief Technical Officer, MTN Nigeria, at the prize presentation to the winners of the Best Short Film category at the 12th AMVCA, where Hussaini emerged winner. The presentation was held on Wednesday, May 12, 2026, at the MTN Plaza, Ikoyi, Lagos.

MTN Nigeria has shown it is committed to helping new filmmakers and promoting African stories. The company is investing in platforms that recognize, reward, and support creative talent.

As part of the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, MTN sponsored the Best Short Film category. They presented a N5m cash prize to the creators of ‘Hussaini’, the winning film by Orire Nwani and Josh Olaoluwa.

This event celebrated new storytellers whose work is shaping the future of African cinema. Hussaini won one of the most competitive awards in the short film category.

During the presentation, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, spoke about the company’s commitment to empowering the youth and developing the creative industry.

She said MTN is focused on supporting young Nigerians who are breaking new ground in film and storytelling. "At MTN, one of the things that we are so committed to is youth empowerment. We believe that the youth of Nigeria are actually the future of the country. When we see young people being productive and coming out tops in what they do, it speaks to their commitment and ability to move beyond boundaries. One of the ways we support the creative industry is through the short film category, and we are delighted to see deserving winners who are obviously on their way to great things," she said.

The filmmakers behind Hussaini thanked MTN for the recognition. One of them said winning was a big moment for them after being nominated several times in the category.

MTN’s support for new filmmakers goes beyond the AMVCA. They also hosted Young Filmmakers’ Day and the #MTNFilmChallenge. These events aim to highlight and reward fresh voices in African cinema.

Through this initiative, five emerging filmmakers, Precious Aisa, Fitz-Williams Ochie, Ugwueze Jennifer, Anuyimika Ayomide, and Alexander Oshiame, received over N4m in cash prizes for their short films that showcase Nigerian culture, creativity, and everyday life. Two other finalists also got consolation prizes.