Makun’s comedy feature dominates Toronto festival as other Nigerian films including Aso Ebi Diaries, Extra Mile, and In Her Shoes also pick up awards.
AY Makun’s “The Waiter” Wins Ten Awards at TINFF 2025
AY Makun’s The Waiter emerged as the biggest Nigerian winner at the 2025 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), taking home ten awards.
The comedy, which had already made waves in cinemas and streaming platforms, continued its strong run by sweeping multiple categories at the festival held from September 6 to 12 across venues in Toronto, Canada.
Beyond Makun’s film, other Nigerian titles also received recognition. Aso Ebi Diaries secured the award for Best Costume Design, while Extra Mile, produced by Five2 Media and Entertainment, was honoured with Best Film by a Female Filmmaker – Nollywood.
Rising filmmaker Queen Nehita, an alumna of Kunle Afolayan’s KAP Film Academy, also made her mark at the festival. Her short film In Her Shoes won Best Short Film – Nollywood, cementing her as one of the promising voices of the new generation.
TINFF, known for spotlighting African and diaspora cinema, once again highlighted the growing visibility of Nollywood on the international stage.