Offie Darlington Wins ‘Next Rated Filmmaker’ Award at African Smartphone Film Festival 2025
Independent filmmaker Offie Darlington, popularly known as Mr Darlington, has emerged as the Next Rated Filmmaker at the 2025 African Smartphone International Film Festival (ASIFF).
Darlington clinched the award with his project I’m Awele’s Daughter, a film supported by ENIFF Nigeria and MYIFF Kenya, with backing from the British Council.
Reacting to the recognition, the filmmaker described the honour as a significant milestone for his creative team, noting that it affirms their commitment to telling authentic African stories.
“Winning the ‘Next Rated Filmmaker’ title on a project supported by the British Council and ENIFF was a profound honour. It validates the work we do in telling authentic African stories, and I dedicate this award to the entire Umoja team who made the project possible,” Darlington said.
Following the award, Darlington announced plans to return fully to independent filmmaking. In a statement made available to PUNCH Online, he revealed that his next project, a short film titled Ojuju Kids, will be produced under his production outfit, Asabawood.
Production for the project is expected to commence in late 2026, with Tower FM, Nsukka, listed as a supporting partner.
According to Darlington, the move is aimed at strengthening grassroots creative ecosystems while maintaining engagement with international film platforms.
He added that his long-term vision extends beyond film production to nurturing emerging talent and contributing to the sustainability of African cinema.
“Asabawood is not just about making films; it’s about shaping the future of African storytelling by empowering the next generation of filmmakers,” he said.
