Kunle Afolayan Leaves a Lasting Impact at FESPACO 2025

Renowned Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan made a powerful impact at the 2025 Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO), reaffirming his dedication to promoting African cinema.

Masterclass on Cinema and Creativity

On February 27th, Afolayan led an insightful masterclass on the Business of Cinema and Balancing Creativity with Commercial Visibility. The session highlighted how filmmakers can merge artistic vision with financial success.

Joining him were Seun Soyinka, Director of KAP Film and Television Academy, and Gbemisola Afolabi, Marketing Lead, who presented the vast opportunities within Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP).

Reviving a Classic: Ija Ominira

The festival also featured a special screening of Ija Ominira (1978), a classic film directed by Afolayan’s late father, Adeyemi Afolayan (Adelove).

Originally premiered at FESPACO, the film’s return to Cine de Burkina sparked nostalgia among attendees who shared heartfelt memories and praised Kunle Afolayan’s efforts in preserving African film heritage.

Exclusive Screening of “RECALL”

On February 28th, anticipation soared with the screening of Kunle Afolayan’s upcoming film, RECALL, at the Conseil Économique et Social (CES).

The film, set for a nationwide release on April 4, 2025, received glowing reviews from festivalgoers, further building excitement ahead of its theatrical debut.

Celebration and Networking

Following the screening, industry professionals gathered at Seven Stone Lounge in Ouagadougou for a celebratory cocktail reception.

The event fostered collaboration among filmmakers, reinforcing FESPACO’s mission to unite African storytellers on a global platform.

Kunle Afolayan’s Call to Filmmakers.

Encouraging consistency in film production, Afolayan shared a powerful message:

Filmmakers work very hard, but don’t restrict yourself to one film every five years. Try to make one film every year at least.

Kunle AfolayaN at fespaco 2025

Watch the Highlights – My FESPACO Experience

Looking Ahead

With the upcoming release of RECALL, Kunle Afolayan’s return to cinemas marks a defining moment for Nigerian and African cinema.

FESPACO 2025 was more than a festival—it was a celebration of African storytelling, heritage, and the future of cinema.

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