By Florence Allor
Multiple award-winning actress and producer Genevieve Nnaji has added another remarkable achievement to her illustrious career after being honoured at the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival.
The globally celebrated cinema event, regarded as one of the most prestigious and widely publicised film festivals in the world, is being held in France from May 12 to May 23, 2026. During the occasion, the iconic Nollywood star was spotted alongside Bollywood actress Tara Sutaria, in what many have described as yet another proud moment for the Nigerian film industry.
Looking ever young and eye-catching, Nnaji has continued to distinguish herself as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures. In 2005, she made history as the first performer to win the African Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role.
She was also honoured with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic, MFR, by the Nigerian government for her immense contribution to the growth of Nollywood.
Her directorial debut, Lionheart, became the first Nigerian film acquired by Netflix and Nigeria’s first-ever submission to the Oscars, although it was later disqualified due to its predominantly English dialogue.
In 2020, the actress was also profiled alongside notable celebrities and business executives in two books authored by Azuh Arinze, Editor-in-Chief of YES International! Magazine.
