Henry Ikenna aka Odogwu has emerged winner of Film House Africa reality TV show season 4, smiling home with prizes worth N35 million, including a new car and a movie deal
With the theme: ‘Cinema Edition’, the show featured 54 contestants drawn from different backgrounds and talents, giving participants the platform to develop their cinematic abilities, particularly in acting and cinematography, under expert guidance.
After 25 days of intense competition, Ikenna emerged a winner and was overcome with emotion when his victory was announced. “I feel great. I can’t even express how I’m feeling,” he said with tears of joy streaming down his cheeks. “My message to everyone is that whatever you do, believe in God. Stay strong, fight till the end, and stay focused.”
sReflecting on his journey to victory, Ikenna revealed that he adopted a simple strategy, which is to be authentic. “I always stayed true to myself. I knew it was a game, and in a game, you don’t reveal your plans. People thought I was too quiet, but I knew why I was there. I was there for a reason,” he explained.
With a longstanding passion for acting and cinematography, Ikenna expressed his gratitude for the life-changing opportunity the reality show provided. “I’ve never handled a camera before or acted in any movie. This platform has given me a chance, and I grabbed it. Now, I want to invest my money wisely, and work with my fellow finalists on any opportunity that comes our way.”
The 1st runner-up, Aisha Ruth Tamimu, known as Sweet Mimi, went home with N1.2 million and other consolation prizes. She expressed gratitude to the organisers, stating, “I’m not disappointed. This was a competition, and there must be a winner. I’m very happy to be the first runner-up.”
Second runner-up, Edward Nsidibeabasi Etim aka Singer Boy, received N1 million. A content creator and junior product designer, Edward noted that the show has helped him sharpen his skills as an entertainer, especially in acting and stage performance.
“This place really changed me,” he said, revealing plans to use his prize money to support his mother and push his music career forward.
Dr. Victory Emuejekarohwo, the show’s Camp Director, highlighted the uniqueness of the ‘Cinema Edition’. According to him, the season focused on hands-on experience and practical exposure, allowing even complete beginners to handle cameras and perform confidently on stage.
“This season has been impactful. Many who were shy or inexperienced came out of their shells. We’ve molded talent here,” he said, while calling on stakeholders and government to support initiatives that empower youth through creative arts.
“We’re taking people off the streets and giving them a purpose,” he emphasized.