By Seun Coker
The 2026 British Academy of Film and Television Awards (BAFTA Awards delivered a proud moment for Nigeria as actress Wunmi Mosaku and the film My Father’s Shadow emerged as standout highlights at the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs).
Held at the iconic Royal Festival Hall in London’s Southbank Centre, the ceremony celebrated global cinematic achievements, with Nigerian talent playing a historic role on the night.
Wunmi Mosaku Wins Best Supporting Actress at 2026 BAFTAs
Zaria-born actress Wunmi Mosaku was one of the biggest winners at the 2026 BAFTAs, clinching the Best Supporting Actress award for her outstanding performance in Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler.
Her BAFTA win comes shortly after her nomination in the same category at the 2026 Academy Awards, further cementing her status as one of the most accomplished British-Nigerian actresses in international cinema.
Despite Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another dominating the night with six awards—including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay—Mosaku’s victory stood out as a defining moment for Nigerian representation on the global stage.
Heavily pregnant with her second child, Mosaku graced the stage in a dazzling one-shoulder blue gown and delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech that drew a standing ovation from the audience.
A Historic Win for My Father’s Shadow at the BAFTAs
In another groundbreaking achievement, brothers Akinola Davies Jr. and Wale Davies won the Outstanding British Debut award for their film My Father’s Shadow.
The victory marks a historic milestone, as they become the first Nigerian filmmakers to win in the Outstanding British Debut category at the BAFTAs.
Akinola Davies Jr., the film’s director, described the BAFTA win as “a dream realised for both our family and the many untold Nigerian stories that deserve to be seen around the world.”
Wale Davies, the writer, said their collaboration as siblings enriched the storytelling. “Working together, we were able to channel our shared experiences and the stories of our parents into the film,” he said during their acceptance speech.
About My Father’s Shadow
My Father’s Shadow was written by Wale Davies and directed by Akinola Davies Jr. It was produced by Element Pictures and financed by BBC Film and the British Film Institute.
Shot in Lagos, Nigeria, the film tells the powerful story of an emotionally distant father and his two young sons navigating the city over the course of a single day. The narrative unfolds against the tense backdrop of the aftermath of Nigeria’s historic 1993 presidential election, blending personal drama with political history.
Nigeria’s Growing Global Film Influence
The success of Wunmi Mosaku and My Father’s Shadow at the 2026 BAFTA Awards underscores Nigeria’s expanding footprint in the global film industry. From compelling performances to deeply rooted storytelling, Nigerian creatives continue to break barriers and redefine African cinema on the international stage.
As Nollywood evolves and Nigerian filmmakers gain wider recognition, these BAFTA wins represent not just individual triumphs but a broader celebration of Nigeria’s creative excellence and cultural influence worldwide.
