‘Tears for Enebi,’ Nigerian Film Wins Big at Los Angeles’ Independent Short Awards

(Apples Bite Magazine) Continuing its impressive run on the festival circuit, the powerful Nigerian short film Tears for Enebi by renowned storyteller Godspower Oshodin took home two top honours at the prestigious Independent Short Awards in Los Angeles. The film clinched awards for Best Women Short and Best Actress, further cementing its status on the international stage.

A proof of unwavering dedication, the film was produced by Godspower Oshodin, a distinguished author, poet, journalist, and filmmaker, who has nurtured this project for over 12 years. The film is co-produced by the multi-talented Seunmanuel Faleye, who brings his expertise as a director, actor, and filmmaker.

With direction from Peter Atigogo, Seunmanuel Faleye, and Sunki, and production coordination by Joshua Emmanuel, Tears for Enebi features compelling performances from Rahmah Zakareeyah (who won Best Actress for her role), Seunmanuel Faleye, Aitiya Hensley, young Kika Oshodin (five years old), and a special appearance by Nollywood icon Foluke Daramola.

'Tears for Enebi,' Nigerian Film Wins Big at Los Angeles’ Independent Short Awards

The film’s achievements in Los Angeles, winning both Best Women Short and Best Actress, highlight its global impact and the universality of its powerful message: confronting sexual violence and championing the voices of survivors with courage and hope. To date, Tears for Enebi has amassed five international awards and has been selected for screening at ten major film festivals slated for 2026.

Reflecting on the film’s journey, producer Godspower Oshodin shared:

“This is an idea that’s been with me for 12 years. I conceived and wrote it over a decade ago to combat rape, abuse, and all forms of gender-based violence. Production was halted twice, but our resolve never wavered because we knew this story had to be told. Winning these awards in Los Angeles is deeply meaningful—it shows our message is being heard and embraced.”

Rahmah Zakareeyah, honoured as Best Actress for her deeply emotional portrayal of Enebi, also expressed her heartfelt thanks:

“Bringing Enebi to life was both challenging and rewarding. I wanted to represent the countless women whose voices are often unheard. This award belongs to every survivor, every courageous woman and girl determined to share their truth. Thank you for believing in our message and in the transformative power of cinema.”

Teas for Enebi was made possible with the collaboration of associate production companies Solution Media Studios, Mogson Production, M2net, and Purplemat Entertainment, and features a moving original soundtrack by MarkOwi, a standout talent among Nigeria’s emerging musicians.

As accolades continue to pour in from around the globe, the team behind Tears for Enebi hopes the film will inspire meaningful dialogue and real change, championing a safer, more compassionate world.