Niji Akanni is a versatile Nigerian artist, renowned for his significant contributions as a dramatist, screenwriter, director, producer, and filmmaker. Below, we delve into his background, career, notable works, and the awards and recognition he has earned over the years.
Personal Stats
| Full Name | Akanni Adeniji |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 12, 1962 |
| Net Worth | N/A |
| State of Origin | Abeokuta, Ogun State |
| Occupation | Screenwriter, Filmmaker, Director, Producer, Dramatist, Playwright |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Citizenship | Nigerian |
| Alma Mater | Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife |
Education And Early Life
Niji Akanni received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Dramatic Arts from Obafemi Awolowo University. His pursuit of knowledge in the film industry led him to obtain a master’s degree in Film Studies from the University of Ibadan. Additionally, he holds a professional master’s degree (MFA) in Screenplay Writing and Film Directing from the Film and Television Institute of India.
Career Highlights
Niji Akanni’s career is marked by his involvement in numerous significant Nigerian films and reality shows. He has made noteworthy contributions in various roles, including as a director, producer, and scriptwriter. Some highlights from his career include:
- Directing “The Lion and the Jewel”: In 2012, Niji Akanni directed “The Lion and the Jewel,” a play by renowned Nigerian writer Professor Wole Soyinka, as one of Nigeria’s official theatrical presentations at the Cultural Olympiad in London.
- Reality Show Contributions: In 2005, he served as the Assistant Director for the first season of “Amstel Malta Box Office,” a Nigerian Reality Television Show. He also worked as Content Director on “Big Brother Nigeria” in the same year.
- “The Narrow Path”: In 2006, Niji Akanni co-scripted “The Narrow Path,” a film produced by Mainframe Films and Television Productions and directed by Tunde Kelani. The film was adapted from “The Virgin,” a debut novel by Bayo Adebowale.
- “Abobaku”: In 2008, Niji Akanni directed “Abobaku,” a short film that won several awards, including the Most Outstanding Short Film at the 2010 ZUMA Film Festival.
- “Aramotu”: In 2010, he wrote and directed “Aramotu,” a Nigerian drama digital film that garnered seven nominations at the 7th Africa Movie Academy Awards and received awards for Best Nigerian Film and Best Costume Design.
- “Heroes and Zeros”: This Nigerian drama film, directed by Niji Akanni, featured a talented cast and was acclaimed for its storytelling. It won awards such as Most Outstanding Film and Audience Choice at the 2013 EKO International Film Festival.
Filmography
Here are some of the notable films Niji Akanni has been involved in as a writer, director, or producer:
| Title | Written | Directed | Produced | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Narrow Path | Tunde Kelani and Niji Akanni | Tunde Kelani | Mainframe Films and Television Productions | 2006 |
| Abobaku | Femi Odugbemi | Niji Akanni | Femi Odugbemi | 2008 |
| Aramotu | Niji Akanni | Niji Akanni | Yinka Kolapo | 2010 |
| Heroes and Zeros | Niji Akanni | Niji Akanni | Christopher Jeyibo | 2012 |
Accolades
Niji Akanni’s work and contributions to the Nigerian film industry have been recognized through various awards and nominations. Here are some of the major awards received by Niji Akanni and his films:
| Award | Category | Recipient | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yoruba Movie Academy (3rd Yoruba Movie Academy Awards) | Best Cultural Movie | Niji Akanni | Won |
| Yoruba Movie Academy (3rd Yoruba Movie Academy Awards) | Achievement in Directing | Niji Akanni | Won |
| Yoruba Movie Academy (3rd Yoruba Movie Academy Awards) | Best Picture | Niji Akanni | Won |
| Africa Film Academy (7th Africa Movie Academy Awards) | Best Nigerian Film | Niji Akanni | Won |
| Africa Film Academy (7th Africa Movie Academy Awards) | Best Film | Niji Akanni | Nominated |
| Africa Film Academy (7th Africa Movie Academy Awards) | Best Director | Niji Akanni | Nominated |
| Africa Film Academy (7th Africa Movie Academy Awards) | Best Film in an African Language | Niji Akanni | Nominated |
