The courtyard of the Enugu Government House carried a quiet electricity on Monday as Governor Peter Mbah received the distinguished 2025 AFRIFF Excellence Award, newly renamed in honor of the late Herbert Wigwe. The honor, presented by Africa International Film Festival Founder Chioma Ude, with Nollywood actor Williams Uchemba in attendance, recognized Mbah’s strategic investment in the creative economy as a pillar of Enugu’s future.
In his remarks, Governor Mbah spoke with the conviction of a man carrying a cultural inheritance: “This recognition strengthens our resolve to provide the environment, infrastructure, and security needed for the creative industry to thrive—and to ensure the full return of Nollywood right here in Enugu, its original home.”
His administration’s economic blueprint envisions expanding Enugu’s GDP sevenfold, with film, music, tourism, and digital media positioned as high-capacity growth engines. Soundstages are being mapped. Film districts are being designed. Creative residency programs are already in the planning stages.
Mbah closed with a forward-driving charge: “This is not the finish line. This is ignition. We do not rest. Tomorrow is here.”
