British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr. and his brother Wale Davies have clinched the Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer award at the 2026 British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards for their film My Father’s Shadow.
The landmark win was announced at the 79th BAFTA ceremony held on February 22, 2026, at London’s Royal Festival Hall. The annual event drew leading filmmakers and actors from across the globe, with the Davies brothers emerging among the night’s most celebrated winners.
My Father’s Shadow, written and directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and co-written and produced by Wale Davies, explores the emotional journey of a father and his two sons against the backdrop of Nigeria’s tense 1993 election crisis. Set in Lagos, the film intertwines intimate family dynamics with the charged political climate of the era, earning praise for its layered storytelling and cultural depth.
Prior to its BAFTA triumph, the film had already made history at the Cannes Film Festival, where it was selected for the prestigious Un Certain Regard section becoming the first Nigerian production to achieve the distinction. The Cannes recognition significantly boosted the film’s international profile ahead of awards season.
In his acceptance speech, Akinola Davies Jr. dedicated the award to underrepresented voices, particularly immigrant families and individuals affected by conflict and displacement. Industry analysts say the win signals growing global appetite for African narratives and storytellers.
The ceremony also honoured other major winners. One Battle After Another secured top prizes including Best Film and Best Director, while British-Nigerian actress Wunmi Mosaku took home Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Sinners.
For many observers, the Davies brothers’ victory represents a defining moment for Nigerian storytelling on the world stage — reinforcing the country’s expanding footprint in global cinema and paving the way for more African filmmakers to command international acclaim.
