Steve Babaeko's Film Ramat Moves Audience at AFRIFF, Child Actor Receives University Scholarship

The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) witnessed a powerful moment on Thursday as Steve Babaeko's film Ramat had its African premiere, screening simultaneously across two halls. The eight-minute film tells the story of a boy watching his father cry, a memory Babaeko drew from his own childhood. On February 13, 1976, Babaeko's father, a serving army officer, wept upon hearing the news of Gen. Murtala Ramat Muhammed's assassination, a moment that has stayed with Babaeko for fifty years.

Before the screening, Babaeko shared his experience of creating the film, stating that it scared him because it was a personal story, not a client's. Having worked on hundreds of commercials, Babaeko found this project different, as it was his own story to tell. The film's emotional impact was evident in the audience's reaction, who sat in silence before erupting into applause. This premiere marked Babaeko's first personal directorial work, a departure from his career in advertising, where his agency won Nigeria's first Cannes Lion in 2023.

The film Ramat was selected from hundreds of submissions for AFRIFF's 15th edition, showcasing its significance in the film community. After the credits, Babaeko made a heartwarming announcement: his foundation would fund the full university education of Samuel Adebola, the child actor who played the young Babaeko in the film. Babaeko praised Adebola, saying he found something in the role that Babaeko had not seen on a face since he was that boy himself.

Babaeko expressed that if the film is about anything, it is about what one generation passes on to the next. This theme resonated with the audience, who appreciated the film's emotional depth. The film's success at AFRIFF has paved the way for its international debut, with submissions planned for Clermont-Ferrand in France, Berlinale Shorts in Germany, the Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles, and the Brussels Short Film Festival.

These international film festivals offer potential routes to Oscar and BAFTA qualification, further solidifying Ramat's impact on the global film scene. Babaeko's achievement in creating a film that resonates with audiences and leaves a lasting impact is evident. His transition from advertising to filmmaking has resulted in a remarkable debut, showcasing his talent and dedication to storytelling.

The Africa International Film Festival has provided a platform for Ramat to reach a wider audience, and its success will likely inspire more aspiring filmmakers. Babaeko's decision to fund Samuel Adebola's university education demonstrates his commitment to nurturing young talent and giving back to the community. This act of kindness has been well-received, highlighting the positive influence of the film beyond its cinematic value.

As Ramat continues its journey on the international film circuit, it is clear that Steve Babaeko's personal story has struck a chord with audiences. The film's themes of family, legacy, and the power of storytelling will likely resonate with viewers worldwide. With its successful premiere at AFRIFF and upcoming international screenings, Ramat is poised to make a lasting impact on the global film community.

Key points

• Steve Babaeko's film Ramat premieres at AFRIFF, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
• The child actor, Samuel Adebola, receives a university scholarship from Babaeko's foundation.
• Ramat is set to screen at international film festivals, potentially leading to Oscar and BAFTA qualification.