The gathering brought together filmmakers, actors, industry stakeholders and other personalities to celebrate the festival's milestone and acknowledge its contributions to the development and international visibility of African cinema.
Speaking at the event, US representative Brandon Hudspeth described AFRIFF's growth over the years as remarkable, attributing its achievements to the leadership and commitment of those behind the festival.
He also highlighted the historical relationship between Nigeria and the United States, drawing a comparison between AFRIFF's development and the history of the US government's residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, which was completed in 1947.
According to him, the building represented America's early commitment to establishing diplomatic relations with Nigeria as the country moved towards independence.
“This festival has grown to something that is absolutely remarkable and it is because of the great leadership that has allowed it,” he said.
Reflecting on the historical significance of the diplomatic residence, Hudspeth said the United States was once again demonstrating its commitment to strengthening relations with Nigeria through renewed cultural and institutional partnerships.
“This resident was built and finished completion in 1947. Almost 80 years ago and at the time, the United state government was looking at Nigeria with the understanding that there was a country that was moving towards independent and wanting to build a relationship with this amazing country and building this landscape of a resident here in the centre view of Ikoyi was a signal. Down the road in Eko Atlantic, we are doing that again,” he said.
He added that the renewed engagement reflected the importance the United States attached to Nigeria, its people, culture and government.
Meanwhile, AFRIFF founder Chioma Ude described this year's festival theme, ‘Frames of the Future’, as a reflection of the optimism, creativity and determination driving the growth of African cinema.
Addressing guests, Ude said the gathering represented the hope and commitment required to take the continent's film industry to greater heights.
“The frames of the future is the theme for the festival this year. Just looking at the crowd, I see a frame. I see hope, I see passion but most importantly, I see a drive for African cinema. Roll up your sleeves, it is going to be a tough journey but a good one,” she said.
She also acknowledged the challenges involved in organising the festival, noting that its continued success depended largely on the dedication of partners, supporters and friends of AFRIFF.
“Running the festival is not an easy thing at all. We do it and we do it by ourselves. When I mean ‘we’, I mean friends of the festival, partners. The government is a like a sprinkle at times, but we keep pushing,” Ude added.
Other personalities at the reception included Nollywood actor Femi Adebayo, actresses Ini Edo, media entrepreneur Ben Murray-Bruce, comedian Yaw, television personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, reality television star Boma and comedian Bovi, among others.
