Steve Gukas praises Ifeoma Fafunwa AMVCA nomination, celebrating her standout performance in The Lost Days ahead of the awards ceremony

Film director Steve Gukas has publicly congratulated actress Ifeoma Fafunwa following her nomination for Best Lead Actress at the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), in recognition of her performance in the film The Lost Days.

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The Ifeoma Fafunwa AMVCA nomination was announced on Sunday night ahead of the awards ceremony scheduled to take place on May 9 in Lagos, Nigeria.

The nomination places Fafunwa among a competitive shortlist of leading performers in the Nigerian film industry, marking a significant milestone in her acting career.

In a detailed post shared on his Instagram page on Monday, Steve Gukas reflected on the casting process for Fafunwa’s role in The Lost Days, describing how her selection came after an extensive search for the right fit.

He noted that her presence and energy immediately aligned with the character of Chisom, ultimately convincing the production team of her suitability.

Gukas explained that despite Fafunwa’s background as an acclaimed theatre director, she had limited acting experience at the time and was initially unsure about taking on the role.

However, he emphasised that her performance exceeded expectations, describing her contribution as exceptional and transformative for the project.

The filmmaker’s remarks highlighted the determination behind securing her participation, indicating that the team went to considerable lengths to bring her on board.

He further expressed satisfaction that her nomination now reflects industry recognition of the same qualities that informed her casting.

The Lost Days, a drama mystery film released in 2025 and directed by Wingonia Ikpi, follows the story of Chisom, a woman who, after being declared cancer free, attempts to reconnect with her past while confronting unresolved personal truths.

The film features a strong ensemble cast and has been noted for its emotional depth and narrative complexity.

Fafunwa’s nomination places her alongside other notable contenders in the category, underscoring a competitive field that continues to showcase the breadth of talent within Nigerian cinema.

The recognition has been widely viewed as a powerful endorsement of her transition into screen acting and her impact in a leading role.

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As anticipation builds ahead of the AMVCA ceremony, industry observers have pointed to Fafunwa’s nomination as one of the standout moments of this year’s selection, reflecting both critical appreciation and audience engagement.