The Niger Delta region, a powerhouse of creativity and storytelling, continues to shine brightly in Nigeria's film industry through Nollywood and emerging regional cinema. The Niger Delta Advancement Award (NDAA) 8.0, organized by JUVENIS Magazine/TV, recognizes exceptional contributions in 2025, with the Best Movie Producer category celebrating 15 outstanding filmmakers from the nine Niger Delta states. These producers have delivered compelling narratives that reflect the region's culture, challenges, and triumphs, often blending drama, action, and social commentary to captivate audiences locally and beyond. The winner will be announced on Sunday 8th of February, 2026 at the event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
As the awards approach, these nominees exemplify resilience, innovation, and dedication to advancing Niger Delta stories on screen. Here are detailed profiles highlighting their achievements:
1. Al-Ameen Hussain
Founder of Ameen-Empire Entertainment, Al-Ameen Hussain is a multifaceted Nollywood talent—actor, director, and producer. His productions emphasize cultural themes and entertainment, with notable works including films that explore African narratives. As a musical artist turned filmmaker, he bridges entertainment sectors, promoting grassroots storytelling from the region.
2. Walter Anga
A prominent Rivers State-born actor and producer, Walter Anga (Walta Angapukotanka Kalada) has transitioned seamlessly into production. Known for roles in blockbusters, he produces films that highlight family dynamics and societal issues. With a background in Theatre Arts from the University of Port Harcourt, Anga's productions draw from his deep roots in Port Harcourt's vibrant creative scene.
3. John Henry
An emerging producer focused on impactful storytelling, John Henry brings fresh perspectives to Niger Delta cinema. His works often tackle themes of resilience and community, contributing to the region's growing catalogue of meaningful films that resonate with local audiences.
4. Martins P. Zidebegha
From Bayelsa State, Martins P. Zidebegha serves as Secretary of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) Bayelsa Chapter. Actively involved in reviving the state's film industry, he advocates for festivals and collaborations, producing content that showcases Bayelsa's unique locations and cultural heritage.
5. Aniebiet Francis
A dynamic Akwa Ibom-based producer, actress, and filmmaker, Aniebiet Francis is known for empowering local talent through initiatives like the Orange Film Boot Camp. Her productions, including features addressing social issues, aim to shift Nollywood's focus to Akwa Ibom, highlighting the state's untapped potential in cinema.
6. Blessing Johnson
Blessing Johnson is a dedicated Nollywood producer whose works emphasize authentic Nigerian stories. Collaborating on various projects, she contributes to films that explore everyday life, relationships, and empowerment, adding depth to the industry's diverse output.
7. Emmanuel (Bless Smile) Edi
Known for his engaging productions, Emmanuel Bless Smile Edi has helmed projects like "Dara: A Port Harcourt Love Story," blending romance and drama. His Rivers State-inspired stories capture urban youth experiences, earning praise for relatable and heartfelt filmmaking.
8. Terela Solomon Afore
A passionate producer committed to regional narratives, Terela Solomon Afore focuses on stories that uplift Niger Delta communities. His productions often incorporate local dialects and traditions, fostering cultural preservation through cinema.
9. Otto Aye a.k.a. Ratata
Popularly known as Ratata or Aboy, Otto Aye is a producer behind action-packed series like "Ratata The Jungle Lord" from Ratata Films Production. Starring in and producing survival-themed adventures, his works, including seasons featuring intense drama and jungle lore, have gained a massive following in the region.
10. St. Sylvernus Tombara Ayebainate
A Bayelsa-based producer, St. Sylvernus Tombara Ayebainate draws inspiration from local sounds and stories, producing films that reflect the state's rich Ijaw heritage and contemporary issues.
11. Ohafor Efe Kopiko
Ohafor Efe Kopiko produces bold, character-driven stories, often featuring strong female leads and community themes. His works contribute to evolving narratives in Niger Delta filmmaking.
12. Stanley Mba
Stanley Mba is an active producer in Nollywood's regional scene, focusing on collaborations that amplify voices from Imo and surrounding states, with productions emphasizing moral and family values.
13. Athy Nestor Oki
Athy Nestor Oki brings innovative approaches to production, supporting projects that explore environmental and social themes relevant to the Niger Delta.
14. Godswill F. Inyang
From Akwa Ibom, Godswill F. Inyang produces films that celebrate the state's cultural vibrancy, often incorporating music and tradition to create uplifting content.
15. Ino Moses Jonah
A multiple award-winning producer and director, Ino Moses Jonah heads Ino Mo Films and is a member of the Association of Movie Producers Nigeria. Trained at NTA TV College, his works like "Almost" and "For the Love of Isiuwa" address societal issues, earning recognition for pedagogy and entertainment value. He also empowers filmmakers through AI workshops.
These nominees represent the dynamic evolution of filmmaking in the Niger Delta, from grassroots productions to culturally resonant blockbusters. The NDAA 8.0 celebrates their role in promoting unity, development, and global visibility for regional stories. As voting continues on the official platform, anticipation builds for the grand event honoring these trailblazers.
