Chukwuemeka Okpara, a distinguished Nigerian filmmaker and television director, has been crowned the Supreme African Filmmaker of the Year at the 2024 Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy (SDTA) Awards. This prestigious accolade recognizes Okpara’s exceptional work on the health-focused television program, “Health and Life with Dr. Daly,” which he directs and produces for Ghone TV. The program showcases Okpara’s dedication to promoting health awareness and education across Ghana and beyond. This latest win marks Okpara’s second SDTA award, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the African film and television industry and underscoring his continued impact on the entertainment landscape. The award ceremony, held at the luxurious La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana, was a glittering celebration of talent, featuring performances by renowned artists such as Sir Gyedu Blay Ambolley, saxophone acts, and cultural dances.
Okpara, affectionately known as Emeka, is a Nigerian creative force based in Ghana. His journey began in Imo State, Nigeria, where he pursued his initial film studies before honing his craft at a film school in Ghana, specializing in directing and producing. His career trajectory reflects a consistent commitment to quality content and impactful storytelling. From his early co-directing role in “Equatorial Escape” in 2010, which achieved notable success during the VCD era, to his direction of the acclaimed television series “Twisted Tips” on Viasat 1 TV in 2011, Okpara has consistently demonstrated his ability to captivate audiences. His passion for telling authentic African stories with global appeal lies at the heart of his work.
The 2018 film “Sometimes in Yesterday” marked a significant milestone in Okpara’s career, earning him the Best Producer award while the film itself secured the Best West African Film award at the Uganda Film Festival. This recognition further cemented his reputation as a skilled producer and storyteller. His accolades extend beyond Ghana, including the Best Film Producer award at the Nollywood African Film Festival UK in 2019, and numerous other awards from Nigeria, Kenya, and the UK. Notably, in 2023, Okpara was honored as the Supreme African Film Director of the Year at the SDTA Awards, foreshadowing his current triumph as the Supreme African Filmmaker of the Year.
Okpara’s extensive filmography showcases his versatility and range, encompassing productions like “Girl Talk,” “The Pain I Go Through,” “Nwa Ghana,” and “Bianca,” among others. Currently, his health talk show continues to air on Ghone TV, further demonstrating his commitment to impactful content that addresses critical societal issues. His win at the SDTA Awards not only recognizes his individual achievements but also highlights the growing influence and recognition of African cinema on the global stage. Okpara’s dedication to his craft and his passion for telling compelling African stories serve as an inspiration for aspiring filmmakers across the continent.
Upon receiving the award, Okpara expressed profound gratitude to the SDTA Awards for recognizing his contributions, and dedicated the award to all African storytellers who strive to share their diverse narratives with the world. He acknowledged the unwavering support of his family, friends, and colleagues who have been instrumental in his journey. Amb. Zino Lexili Ogazi, SDTA Awards chairperson, lauded Okpara’s creativity, dedication, and passion for storytelling, emphasizing that the award is a testament to his exceptional talent and impact on the film industry. The Supreme African Filmmaker award, designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in filmmaking across Africa, celebrates those who push the boundaries of cinematic expression and contribute to the rich tapestry of African storytelling.
The SDTA Awards, themed “Shared Horizon, Global Village,” aim to promote and celebrate talent and creativity globally, fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, friendship, and peace across continents. The organization has recognized talents from Africa, Asia, and Europe, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual appreciation. Okpara’s win exemplifies the power of African storytelling to resonate with audiences worldwide, underscoring the growing global recognition of African cinema. As Okpara continues his journey in the film industry, his commitment to promoting African culture and storytelling serves as a beacon of inspiration for emerging filmmakers, while his achievements continue to elevate the profile of African cinema on the world stage.
