Nigerian-American filmmaker Temitope Jude Egwu has won the Best Nollywood Film award at the 2026 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) with Anu (Mercy), the debut feature film from Bush Doctor Studios.
The recognition marks an early milestone for the filmmaker and the production outfit as the film makes its way through the international festival circuit.
The 2026 edition of TINFF was held in Toronto, Canada, attracting filmmakers, actors, producers and cinema enthusiasts from different parts of the world.
Anu (Mercy) was selected for screening at the festival and was shown on Friday, September 11, according to information provided about the film. Its award recognition has added to the profile of the production and its creators.
Following the announcement, Egwu expressed gratitude to the people who contributed to the film, acknowledging the collective effort involved in bringing the project to the screen.
He specifically recognised co-director Wale Ilebiyi for his contribution, while thanking the cast and crew for their commitment throughout the production process.
Egwu also dedicated the award to the late Nollywood veteran Mrs Alwell Ademola Eniobanke, paying tribute to her contribution to the Nigerian film industry.
“I would like to dedicate the award to the late Mrs Alwell Ademola. May her legacy never be forgotten,” the filmmaker said.
The award represents a notable achievement for Bush Doctor Studios, which is introducing its work to international audiences through its first feature film.
For Egwu and his collaborators, the recognition also offers an opportunity to bring a Nigerian story before audiences beyond the country and contribute to the international visibility of Nollywood productions.
The film’s success at TINFF adds to the growing presence of Nigerian filmmakers on international platforms, where locally rooted stories can reach viewers from different cultural backgrounds.
