Linus Aleke in Abuja
Nigerian filmmaker, actor, producer and director, Dr. Oluchukwu Iheonunekwu, professionally known as ‘Donald Iheonunekwu’, has won international recognition for using film to challenge cultural stereotypes, following his latest success at the TAFF International Film Festival in Dallas, United States, where his film A Trip to Kigali received the Best Narrative Feature award.
Speaking to THISDAY, Iheonunekwu said the award-winning film was inspired by a personal experience during his first visit to Rwanda, where he encountered deeply rooted stereotypes about young Igbo men, shaped largely by portrayals in some Nollywood productions.
Rather than dismiss the experience, he said he decided to transform it into a thought-provoking story that challenges prejudice, encourages dialogue and promotes greater cultural understanding through screen.
Shot in Lagos, Nigeria, and Kigali, Rwanda, A Trip to Kigali has received international acclaim for its compelling storytelling and powerful cross-cultural message. The production emerged as one of the festival’s standout entries, also winning the Best Actress 2026 award.
Iheonunekwu served as an actor, co-director and producer on the project, which was jointly produced by MOBTV Studios and Onic Entertainment. The film also benefited from the support of Nigerian-American entertainment executive, Mr. Joe Ugonna, whose commitment to promoting African talent and authentic storytelling has helped position Nigerian films before international audiences.
A native of Abia State, Iheonunekwu has continued to earn recognition for producing films that celebrate African history, culture and identity. His documentary, Journey to Igbo Civilisation, won the Best Documentary award at the Abuja International Film Festival in 2022 and at VILLAFEST in 2023, further establishing his reputation as one of Africa’s emerging cinematic voices.
Reflecting on the broader role of filmmaking, Iheonunekwu said, “A film can do more than entertain; it can challenge stereotypes, preserve culture and reshape global perceptions.”
His latest international recognition reinforces Nollywood’s growing influence on the global stage while underscoring the power of African cinema to challenge misconceptions, foster cultural understanding and tell authentic stories that resonate across borders.
