MTN Nigeria has presented a ₦5 million cash prize to Orire Nwani and Josh Olaoluwa, creators of the short film 'Hussaini,' following their win in the Best Short Film category at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCA). The award was part of MTN's sponsorship of the category, aimed at promoting emerging talent in the Nigerian creative sector. During the prize presentation, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer at MTN Nigeria, reaffirmed the company's focus on youth empowerment and support for young creatives. She stated, "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."
The filmmakers described the win as a defining moment, especially after previous nominations in the same category. In addition to the main award, MTN supported five emerging filmmakers through the #MTNFilmChallenge, awarding a total of ₦4.65 million in prizes. The recipients—Precious Aisa, Fitz-Williams Ochie, Ugwueze Jennifer, Anuyimika Ayomide, and Alexander Oshiame—were recognised for short-form films that reflect Nigerian culture and everyday life. Two other finalists received consolation prizes.
Young Filmmakers Day, held at MultiChoice Studios in Lagos, formed part of MTN's AMVCA week activities. The event featured masterclasses and panel sessions led by industry professionals including Uche Jombo, Orire Nwani, Tamara Adeyemi, and Stan Eze. Discussions centred on storytelling techniques, filmmaking skills, and career growth for young creatives.
MTN promotes youth empowerment while only a handful of young filmmakers benefit from its millions. The same creatives who speak on panels at MTN events are the ones scrambling for limited prizes. Nigerian storytellers get celebrated in soundbites while the system funnels rewards to a narrow few. One short film win does not offset the structural gaps most young directors still face.
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