By Peter Omopo
September 4, 2025
Nigerian producer and economist Dr. Sherif Adekunle will represent the country at MIPCOM Cannes 2025, marking a historic moment for African cinema as the continent launches its first Creative Africa Content Pavilion (CAPCOP).
The event, billed as the world’s largest entertainment content market, attracts over 13,000 participants and 4,500 buyers from more than 100 countries annually. According to organisers, this year will be the first time Africa takes centre stage with a dedicated pavilion, an initiative of the Nigerian International Film & TV Summit (NIFS) in partnership with RX France.
Adekunle, 32, earned a PhD in Economics at 29 from Afe Babalola University before venturing into the creative industry. He has trained at leading institutions including the Royal Arts Academy, Ebonylife Creative Academy, and Kunle Afolayan Production Academy, and was one of only 12 global participants in the International Sales and Distribution Executive Programme (ISDE).
His production credits span film, television, and stage, with highlights including The Bride Price (an AMVCA 2023 nominee), Samaritan, AKITI, Gbese, Mother, Dusty Dreams, and Trapped. On stage, his play Dear Applicant was featured at London’s Peckham Fringe and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025.
Speaking on his selection, Adekunle said his Cannes debut represents more than personal achievement.
“I represent the aspirations and dreams of many young African creatives. To be at Cannes the year Africa finally has its pavilion is bigger than me — it is about ensuring indie filmmaking and African storytelling find their rightful place on the global stage,” he said.
Themed around the Global Creator Economy, MIPCOM 2025 will provide new platforms for underrepresented voices. CAPCOP will act as a hub for authentic African stories, linking producers with global distributors, co-production partners, and streaming platforms.
Following Cannes in October, Adekunle is also expected to participate in the Red Sea International Film Festival (December 2025) and the American Film Market (AFM), further advancing his mission to amplify African indie cinema on the world stage.
