Nigerian filmmaker Joy Grant-Ekong has earned international recognition after her film Extra Mile clinched the award for Best Film by a Female Filmmaker – Nollywood at the 2025 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF).
Produced by Five2 Media & Entertainment, the Lagos-set drama tells a compelling story of resilience, sacrifice, and the testing of friendships through betrayal and difficult choices. The film features an impressive cast, including Nollywood stars Mercy Johnson, Jim Iyke, and Lilian Esoro, whose performances brought depth to the gripping narrative.
Grant-Ekong’s win is being celebrated as a significant milestone for female filmmakers in Nollywood, underscoring the growing recognition of women’s contributions to African cinema on international platforms. It also reflects Nollywood’s increasing global footprint, with authentic Nigerian stories resonating across audiences worldwide.
