Overview
Uzoamaka Audrey "Amaka" Igwe was a visionary Nigerian filmmaker, TV producer, and broadcasting entrepreneur. A leading figure in Nollywood’s second generation, she helped pioneer the video film era and redefined standards in Nigerian media through her innovative work and business leadership.
She founded Amaka Igwe Studios, Top Radio 90.9FM, and Q Entertainment Networks. Until her untimely death in 2014 due to an asthma attack, she remained one of Nigeria’s most respected creatives.
Early Life and Education
- Born: 2 January 1963, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
- Parents: Isaac and Patience Ene
- Nicknames: "GCO" (General Commanding Officer) and "Storm" for her energetic nature
- Primary & Secondary Education: All Saints School; Awkunanaw Girls High School, Enugu
- A-Levels: Idia College, Benin – known for choreography and performance arts
- University:
- B.A. Education and Religious Studies, Obafemi Awolowo University
- M.Sc. Library and Information Sciences, University of Ibadan
- Other Notable Roles: Traveling secretary for Scripture Union (NYSC), Executive Director at Eida Information Systems
Career Highlights
🎬 Film & Television
Notable Films:
- Rattle Snake (1995, trilogy)
- Violated (1996)
- Forever (1997)
- A Barber’s Wisdom (2001)
- Full Circle, To Live Again
TV Series:
- Checkmate – Landmark Nigerian TV drama
- Fuji House of Commotion – Cult family sitcom
- Now We Are Married, Solitaire, Bless This House, Infinity Hospital
📺 Media Entrepreneurship
- Amaka Igwe Studios – Known for quality drama and film content
- Top Radio 90.9FM – Urban youth-focused radio station in Lagos
- BOBTV Expo – Broadcast and film business forum
- Q Entertainment Networks – DSTV content channel
Philosophy & Legacy
- Creative Ethos: Excellence, integrity, professionalism, and empowerment
- Mentorship: Dedicated to nurturing young creatives
- Vision: Upholding standards in Nigerian storytelling when Nollywood was still dismissed globally
- Faith & Family: Deeply committed to God, tradition, and loved ones
- Quote: “I will give you all I have so you can add it to what you have and be better than me.”
Awards & Recognition
- 🇳🇬 Member of the Federal Republic (MFR) – National honor, 2011
- 🎨 Google Doodle Tribute – 2 January 2020, marking her 57th posthumous birthday
Death
- Date: 28 April 2014
- Place: Enugu, Nigeria
- Cause: Asthma attack
- Mourners: Governor Rochas Okorocha, Nollywood personalities, media leaders
Quotes
- “I am an unapologetic commercial filmmaker. I make films to make money.”
- “Mr. President, what is Arik Air without an airport?”
- “By the Special Grace of God.”
- “Nollywood is a global movement.”
External Resources
- IMDb – Amaka Igwe(https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0407607/)
- Google Doodle Tribute(https://www.google.com/doodles/amaka-igwes-57th-birthday)
- Amaka Igwe at the Africa Film Academy(https://www.ama-awards.com)
Selected Bibliography
- Ofoma, D. (2022). Spotlight: Amaka Igwe.
- Esonwanne, U. (2008). Interviews with Amaka Igwe et al. Research in African Literatures
- Haynes, J., & Okome, O. (1998). Evolving Popular Media: Nigerian Video Films.
- “Charles Igwe’s Eulogy” (2014). Africa News Service